Susan E. (Miner) Merrell

Susan E. Merrell, 77, of Middlefield, MA, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, October 14, 2023, in the loving care of her husband and daughter.

She was born on February 14, 1946, the daughter of Leland and Helen Miner. She attended Belchertown High School and graduated from Fitchburg State College with a BSN degree in Nursing.

Susan had a 44-year career as an RN in various settings in New Jersey, Vermont, and Massachusetts. She worked primarily in the field of developmental disabilities as a supervising RN and later as a consultant to several local agencies in Berkshire, Hampshire, and Franklin counties. In her leisure time, Susan loved to travel, especially to Bar Harbor and Sanibel Island, with a one-time detour to Kaui and Maui in Hawaii. She was an avid gardener who provided food for her family and special flowers for her hummingbirds and butterflies. She loved animals, especially her grandkitty Gracie, and helped to convert family land into a permanent wildlife sanctuary under the auspices of The Nature Conservancy and Orenda Wildlife Land Trust. She enjoyed driving, particularly small British sports cars with a four speed. She was also a voracious reader whose Kindle was always within reach.

Susan is survived by her husband of 55 years, Richard S. Merrell, of Middlefield, MA, and her daughter Janis L. Merrell, of Belchertown, MA. She is predeceased by her brother, Leland P. Miner, who died on June 28, 2021.

A memorial service for Susan will be held Saturday, October 21, 2023, 10 AM at the Kelly Funeral Home, 3 Main Street, Lee, MA. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to may make a donation in Susan’s name to the Dakin Humane Society, PO Box 6307, Springfield, MA, 01101.