South Paris – Merlie Kimball Stone, a longtime resident of South Paris, passed away on Friday, April 4, in her High Street home, surrounded by her family. She was 95 years old.

She was born the fifth child of Leslie and Maude Emery Kimball of Albany, on June 14, 1912.

Merlie left home at a young age to find her own way in life. While attending Gould Academy, she boarded with various families and worked for them to provide for herself. Although she was unable to complete her high school degree, she possessed a robust education of experience, demonstrated through a strength, determination and appreciation for learning that paved the way for following generations. This legacy lives in the educations of her children and grandchildren, totaling 15 high school degrees, 15 college and secondary degrees and one master’s degree. The third generation is well on its way to further her strength and influence.

At 20 years of age, she fell in love on the dance floor in Waterford. Knowing at first sight she had found her partner, she married Herbert Stone on June 14, 1933, her 21st birthday. The pair enjoyed 58 wonderful years toghether prior to Herbert’s death in 1992. In addition to being a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother, she was also a proficient homemaker, her culinary prowess was no secret to the many who favored the recipes from her kitchen.

Her work efforts took her out of the home as well. For many years she took in boarders and worked seasonal jobs in farm and recreational businesses. In later years, she would work as a repairer in local shoe shops, a career that lasted for over 30 years.

She enjoyed a very active life. Keeping up with her family afforded her many opportunities to travel. She loved the chance to see some place new, but was always ready for a trip to Florida. All of her adventures didn’t require great distance, however. She was on the go all the time attending her grand and great-grandchlidren’s ball games, recitals, graduations and birthday parties. Much of her best family time was just being at camp with as many of the family around as possible. There was nothing better for her than a large crowd for Sunday dinner, especially at camp. Merlie and Herbert loved the fall and the coming of fair season. They always enjoyed the spirit and opportunity to reconnect with old friends and family they would see, the smell of horses and french fries with vinegar.

She was a member of the First Congregational Church of South Paris. She was active in their Ladies Circle and attained the title of “Popover Queen,” for her efforts at the annual Church Christmas fair. She also enjoyed attending the meetings of the United Christian Women and was a long time member of the Rebekahs.

She is survived by her children and their spouses, Carleen and Henry Morton and Elwood “Stub” and Jeanie Stone of South Paris, Judy Stone of Portland and Roger and Donna Woodward of Lovell. She was the proud grandmother of 11 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Her family was, and eternally will be, her greatest achievement and the pride and joy of her life. She also leaves many near and dear friends, especially Marie Turcotte of Portland. She is also survived by two sisters, Helen Jewell of Norway and Eleanor Frechette of South Paris; a sister-in-law, Evelyn Kimball of Albany; and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her brothers, Ralph, Arthur, Clarence and Lawrence Kimball; and sisters, Eva Barker, Mildred Bennett and Florence Graves.