1922 – 2016

MILFORD, Conn. — James H. Merrill passed away peacefully Monday, Oct. 10.

Jim was born July 6, 1922, in Portland and was raised in East Sumner. His father, Lester W. Merrill, was to teach him a love for the outdoors. His mother, Esther, would teach him a love for the written word, music and the Congregational Church in their town.

James graduated from Maine Central Institute and went on to the University of Maine, which he left right after the attack on Pearl Harbor. While working at Chance Vought Aircraft in Stratford, Conn., he met Alice Cecarelli and married her in January 1944. After his brave wartime service, James and Alice settled in Milford, Conn., where they would spend the rest of their days.

James was active in the First UCC Church, serving as a deacon, a delegate at church conferences and as a church moderator for three years. For two years James was president of the Plymouth Men’s Club and scoutmaster of its old Troop 1 and was a longtime chaplain of American Legion Post 34.

He was a master carpenter and mason who owned his own business with close friend Howard Bailey. James and his wife, Alice, were avid dancers who enjoyed taking lessons and dancing in shows while on their much-loved cruise ship vacations. They would also spend many years together singing in the Milford Senior Gospel Choir.

James is survived by his son, James W. Merrill of West Haven, Conn.; his son-in-law, Peter Merrill-Oldham of Cambridge, Mass.; cousin, Rachel Feeley of Auburn; sisters-in-law, Clara Debendetto and Helen Burdacki; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his cherished wife, Alice, and beloved daughter, Jan Merrill-Oldham of Cambridge, Mass.

For directions and to leave condolences, visit our website, georgejsmithandson.com.