DIXFIELD — Carol Laverne Merrill, 63, of Dixfield, died of natural causes on Thursday, April 5, at her home, surrounded by her family and beloved pets.

She was born Feb. 12, 1949, in Rumford, the daughter of Cecil L. and Arlene M. (Hodgkins) Merrill. She graduated from Dirigo High School and continued her education at the University of Maine at Orono, where she studied Animal Medical Technology and worked at the Animal Medical Center in New York City as part of her schooling.

She had been employed at Diamond Match, Med-Care, Winderosa and later at Jarden’s in East Wilton. She enjoyed being self-employed at Merrill’s Greenhouse.

She lovingly cared for her nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews as though they were her own and her nieces and nephews have the precious memories of homemade doughnut parties, and watching movies with her during school breaks and vacations.

She was a self-professed homebody, who loved being with her family, in her gardens and caring for her animals, a dog Casey, her cat Little Bubba and most notably, her ever faithful, best friend, Newton Brook, a thoroughbred Great Dane who never left her side during her declining health.

She leaves her sister, with whom she made her home, Janice A. Merrill of Dixfield; three brothers, James Merrill and his wife, Janice B., of Hallowell, David Merrill and his wife, Josephine, and Peter Merrill and his wife, Tina, all of Canton; 10 nieces and nephews; eight great-nieces and great-nephews; and many cousins.

Tributes and condolences may be shared on her memorial wall at www.wilesrc.com.