Jean Merrill, a beloved wife, sister, mother, aunt, grandmother, and great-grandmother passed away peacefully on May 28, 2024, at the age of 94. Born in Lowell, MA to Milton and Avis McGrath in 1930. Jean's life was marked by her kindness, intellectualism, and unwavering dedication to her family. Jean married Kenneth Merrill, her high school sweetheart, and together, they raised generations of a beautiful family, first in Lowell and later in Wilbraham, MA.

She was a classic hostess known for her warm and infectious laugh and exceptional hospitality. She loved summering on the beach in Ocean Park, ME with her family for over 75 years. Jean was a dear friend, an avid reader, a game and puzzle aficionado, a world traveler, a lover of music, and a talented cook – as evidenced by her many recipes that will be made for generations to come. Her home was always a place of warmth and welcome, where friends and family gathered. She was immeasurably influential in the lives of all those she graced, both as a mother and a mentor.

Jean is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Kenneth, her treasured sister, Beverly, and her two eldest sons, Norman and Peter. She is survived by her sons, Stephen Merrill and his wife Teresa of Dartmouth, MA and James Merrill of Ellington, CT, along with her nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Jean’s family will always remember her love, wisdom, kindness, and the many beautiful memories they made with her.

A private memorial service will be held with the immediate family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Ocean Park Association in Jean’s memory by visiting https://app.etapestry.com/onlineforms/OceanParkAssociation/inmemoriam.html.

Jean’s legacy of love and dedication to her family will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her, and though she will be missed, she will live on in the hearts and memories of those she loved.