Raleigh M. Merrow
1921 – 2009

AUGUSTA — Raleigh M. Merrow, 88, of Whitefield, passed away at the Maine Veteran’s Home in Augusta on the evening of Nov. 9.

Born in Augusta on April 2, 1921, he was the son of Frank and Alvena (Furbush) Merrow. After school, Raleigh joined the U.S. Army and served during World War II. Upon his return from the war, he worked many odd jobs, including being a worm digger for several years. He followed his dream and hunted, fished and trapped as much as he could. He loved to travel and visit family and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents; two sisters, Muriel Allard and Elizabeth Gilley; and one brother, Albert Merrow.

He is survived by two daughters, Elvena Jackson and Paulette Vining, both of Auburn; six grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren; a special friend he considered a son, Charles Jenness and his wife, Barbara, and their family of Athens; a dear friend, Linda Jenness of South Fulton, Tenn.; a niece that he was considered a father to, Ardell Rideout and her husband, Emil Rideout Jr., of Whitefield; and he was a grandfather to their three children, Brett Gilley and partner, Gerald Allen, of West Gardiner, Nicholas Rideout and his wife, Mary, of Whitefield and Eric Rideout and his partner, Meaghan Caston, of Whitefield and their six children; as well as many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at the Maine Veteran’s Home for the special care he received while there.

MERROW — Raleigh M., 88, of Whitefield died in Augusta on Nov. 9. A private graveside service will be held at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Winterport. Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta. Condolences for the family may be expressed at: www.StrongHancock.com.