Roger F. Merrill

SOUTH PARIS – Roger F. Merrill, 94, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in South Paris on Oct. 9, 2025. Roger was born at the family farm on Buckfield Road on April 2, 1931 to Henry and Mabelle (Slattery) Merrill. Mabelle was greatly relieved that he did not arrive the day before.

He grew up in South Paris and graduated from Paris High School in 1949 where he played basketball and captained the team his junior year.

Roger served in the U.S. Air Force from 1951-1955. He worked in communications at the base in South Ruislip, England. Here he met and married Sally Powell and their daughter Debra was born. After discharge Roger went to the University of Maine in Orono on the GI Bill. During this time his son Steve was born. Roger graduated in 1959 with a degree in Engineering Physics.

After graduation Roger spent a few years with MaBell in Allentown, Pa. He returned home to South Paris, Maine where his sons Frank and Joe were born. He worked for many years as a chemist, then ran the ‘Wet End’ at AC Lawrence. He finished his working career as a custodian at OHCHS-his favorite and most rewarding job.

Roger had many interests. He started collecting coins at age 10 with money earned on his paper route. He loved old cars, gardening, and was interested in genealogy. Roger was active in Paris Cape Historical and other historical societies. He did a lot of reading on these and many other topics. Recently Roger delighted his family with stories they had never heard before.

Roger’s granddaughter Sara lived with and cared for him the last five years so he could stay in his home.

Roger was predeceased by his wife Sally, son Frank, and brothers Jim and Jack.

He is survived by his granddaughter and caregiver Sara Wentworth; daughter Debra (John) Wentworth, son Steve (Sharon) Merrill, son Joe (Katie) Merrill; other grandchildren Joey (Soma) Merrill, Karianna Merrill, Nicole (Chris) Sanders, Donnie( Amanda) Leavitt; several great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family is grateful to Andwell Hospice, especially Summer, Michelle, Tina, and Dean, for their kind compassionate care.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025 from 12 to 3 p.m. at the American Legion Hall on Church Street in South Paris. Arrangements are under the care of Chandler Funeral Homes & Cremation Service, 45 Main St., South Paris. Online condolences may be shared with his family at http://www.chandlerfunerals.com