Mary Merritt

Mary H. Merritt ELIZABETH CITY - Mary Kathryn Hofler Merritt, 84, passed away Sunday, Oct. 17, 2010. Mary K. was born Dec. 20, 1925 in Sunbury, N.C. to the late Vera Morris Hofler and Arthur Van Hofler. She was preceded in death by her husband, Capt. Fred Thomas Merritt, U.S. Coast Guard. Mary K. graduated from nursing school in 1947 from Norfolk General Hospital. She worked for many years at Albemarle Hospital in Elizabeth City as the 5th floor charge nurse, where she earned the respect and admiration from many doctors, nurses and patients. She was, and will forever be, a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend. She lived her life epitomizing the perfect mother, always lending an ear, giving advice, loving, sacrificing, caring, guiding, and teaching values, upholding those values, and making us accountable to them. She had the most vibrant personality and giving heart of any angel on earth. Her kindness and generosity to all who had the pleasure in sharing her day-to-day life will always be remembered. Her laughter and smile will never leave our memories. She was a longtime, active member of Christ Episcopal Church, having a tremendous faith, and always felt that God would protect and provide. Her life was a testament to those beliefs. Mary K. is survived by her three children, Michael A. Merritt and wife Carrie of Manteo, N.C., Pamela L. Merritt of Elizabeth City, and Jon R. Merritt and wife Amy of Camden, N.C.; grandchildren, Ryan T. Merritt and wife Doreen of Point Pleasant, N.J., Christopher M. Merritt of Kill Devil Hills, N.C., Emma K. Merritt of Manteo, Doug Leary of Camden, Michelle Leary Griffith and husband Austin of Camden, Melissa Merritt, Jonathan Merritt, Christy Dodson and Nikki Black all of Camden; as well as eight great-grandchildren. She will be missed by her sisters, Thelma H. Shannonhouse of Elizabeth City, Frances H. White and her husband Bill; and a brother, Richard Hofler and wife Kay. The friendship and companionship of Pam's friend, David and his dog Zelda meant everything to Mary K. The family wishes to thank all that work with Albemarle Home Health & Hospice & Quality Home Staffing. They cared for her with love and respect and made her passing to God peaceful and loving. The family sends a heartfelt thank you to Teresa Arroyo for all her time, love and devotion. A memorial service will be conducted on Wednesday, Oct. 20, at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Brent Melton officiating at Christ Episcopal Church, 200 S. McMorrine St., Elizabeth City, with a reception to follow in the parish hall. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Mary K's name to the organ fund at Christ Episcopal Church. Twiford Funeral Home, Memorial Chapel of Elizabeth City, is assisting the family with arrangements. The family will receive friends at the residence, 2034 Rivershore Road. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www. twifordfh. com.