MERRIAM, MARIE CLAIRE (nee SMITH) - The death of Marie Merriam, beloved wife of Gerald Merriam for 63 years, occurred at the Saint John Regional Hospital on Tuesday, July 26, 2011. She was born November 12, 1928 in North Head, Grand Manan, to the late John (Jack) and Ella Smith. She lived on Grand Manan until 1952 when Marie and Jerry moved to Pamdenac (what is now Grand Bay-Westfield). Until recent years, Marie remained a very active member of the Grand Bay Baptist Church. She served as a long time member of the Senior Choir, Sunday School teacher, and was Life Member of the WMS as well as enjoyed the fun and fellowship of the Mr and Mrs Club. She served the community as a leader for Girl Guides and CGIT. She was a wonderful cook, enjoyed knitting, and especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. Besides her husband Jerry, Marie is survived by her daughters: Dawn (Larry) Locke of Castalia, Paula (Gordon) Whitman of Central Greenwich, Jean Merriam of Calgary and Beth (David) MacLeod of Grand Bay-Westfield, two sisters; Arlene of Grand Harbour and Eleanor of St Stephen; eight grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren and a great-great-grandchild. She was predeceased by her parents; two sisters: Jean and Dora; and two brothers: Prescott and Seldon.
Resting at Brenan’s Bay View Funeral Home, 1461 Manawagonish Road, Saint John West (634-7425), with visiting on Thursday and Friday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 PM. The funeral service will be held from the Grand Bay Baptist Church, 77 Woolastook Drive on Saturday, July 30, 2011 at 11:00 AM, with visitation at the church one hour prior to service time. Interment will take place in Cedar Hill Extension Cemetery. For those who wish, remembrances to the Grand Bay Baptist Church Memorial Fund or a charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be placed at www.brenansfh.com