‘The Office’ actor dies at 55

Mark York, who was best known for his role as Billy Merchant in seasons one and two of “The Office,” has died following an illness, according to TMZ. He was 55.

York died last week at Miami Valley Hospital in Ohio. The cause of death has not been confirmed.

ExploreTyler Perry film production transforms downtown Macon into 1950s Chicago

The Ohio-born actor headed to California, where he found himself playing small TV roles on popular shows such as “CSI: New York” and “Fighting Words.” However, his most famous work came on the hit show “The Office.”

Since 1988, Merchant has used a wheelchair as he was a paraplegic. He did not act for many years and had been working as an inventor, acquiring two patents for his inventions.

ExploreNew Georgia productions: Rebel Wilson’s ‘Senior Year’ film, ‘The Waltons’ TV movie, Rosario Dawson HBO series ‘DMZ’

York is survived by his parents and a brother.

About the Author

Tribune News Service

In Georgia’s melon mecca, watermelon wizards’ ears are sweetly attuned

In the heart of Georgia's watermelon country, everyone has a trick to tell if a melon is ripe. One way is the sound a melon makes when it is thumped. Or better, patted.

Atlanta leaders eye trails as part of solution to city’s traffic woes

The 535-mile expansion plan, known as Trails ATL, aims to make the city more walkable, bringing 10-minute access to trails for 95% of city residents by 2052.

Breakdown: Three days in May

Season 11 of the AJC’s Breakdown true crime podcast starts soon. It begins with a Georgia couple, a newborn—and a discovery that triggers a living nightmare.

The Latest

Credit: AP

A.M. ATL: Up, up and away

DISPATCH

In Georgia’s melon mecca, watermelon wizards’ ears are sweetly attuned

A.M. ATL: Whodunnit?

Featured

Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com

New Georgia election audit targets voters registered at P.O. boxes and businesses

Georgia election officials are trying to find inaccurate voter registrations of people registered at P.O. boxes or business addresses.

Rent an apartment, or just a bedroom, at this new Atlanta skyscraper

Amid rising costs and changing lifestyles, Society Atlanta offers a co-living model designed to shake up traditional apartments.

DISPATCH

In Georgia’s melon mecca, watermelon wizards’ ears are sweetly attuned

In the heart of Georgia's watermelon country, everyone has a trick to tell if a melon is ripe. One way is the sound a melon makes when it is thumped. Or better, patted.