Merrylyn Slate Obituary
Born on February 4, 1942 to Ralph and Francis in Watertown, NY. She was the second of eight children. Merrylyn graduated from Immaculate Heart Academy High School in Watertown, NY in 1959.
After graduating, Merrylyn married Donald C. Slate on May 27, 1961. They would go on to have four children (Donald Jr., Linda, Lisa, and Angela), six grandchildren (Jessica, Lindsey, Robert, Marcus, Matthew, and Robyn), and eight great-grandchildren (Lily, Annabelle, Brett, Duke, Leon, Addilyn-Noel, Everette, and Rowan-Lennon). Over the years Merrylyn and Donald lived in Watertown, Pillar Point, Mexico (NY), Knoxville (TN), and Barefoot Bay (FL).
Merrylyn lived a truly interesting life, and worked many different jobs over the years, from teller at a bank, to accounting for a brewery. She loved celebrating the 4th of July, and could often be found sewing in preparation. She was a fabric artist that won several awards at county fairs in New York and Tennessee. When she wasn't preparing for these occasions, she spent her time reading, listening to Jimmy Buffet, watching some of her favorite movies or shows (such as Cinderella), or travelling to the Jersey Shore.
Merrylyn's loved ones will forever remember her for her kindness and ability to encourage all pursuits. Her children and grandchildren will look back on their memories with a fondness that cannot be described.
Private services will be held for close family and friends, and donations can be made to the Joe's Club in Micco, Florida or the Alzheimer's Association.
15 Entries
Arleen (Glazier) Moncalieri
January 23, 2024
Merrylyn and I went to school together, both at Sacred Heart and Immaculate Heart Academy. She and I were the best of friends in and out of school - she was Maid of Honor at my wedding and when she married Donnie, she wore my wedding gown! Merrylyn was always so sweet, kind and generous and our children played together as youngsters when we both lived in Brownville. Basically, out first three children were about the same age as each other and they became good friends with each other, too........so many, many good times were had by all as our children were growing up. Then as time passed, our lives changed direction and we eventually lost contact; however, Merrylyn has always been in my heart and thoughts throughout all these years. A friend like her is never forgotten and our times and fun together in school and afterwards will always remain a bright spot in my life. I am very sad that she has left us.
Joan (Gerstenschlager) Thyre
January 23, 2024
This is sad news to me. I met Merrylyn in 8th grade. We were good friends. She was intelligent and very kind. I have tried to get in touch with her over the years, to no avail. My condolences to Don and all of her family.
Eunie Mott
January 23, 2024
Donnie and Family, So sorry for your loss. We had many good times when you lived in Brownville. Will cherish those memories. Have missed you both over the years. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time. Love Bob and Eunie Mott
Dawn Whitley
January 22, 2024
I have wonderful memories when I was growing up when I would go and stay with Aunt Merrylyn, Uncle Donnie and the kids when they lived in Pillar Point and I would spend summers swimming and fishing in the Lake. When they lived in Mexico I had a great time staying with them and going to Fireman Field Days an swimming in their pool. Aunt Merrylyn always treated me like I was one of her kids.
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Terry Chase Jr
January 22, 2024
My condolences to Don and the entire family. I know my parents loved the Slates and I remember times that I hunted at Pine Drive with Mr. Slate. My God grant them all strength and peace!
Mary Lowe
January 22, 2024
Have her zucchini bread recipe which I have made for years it is the best will all miss Merrylyn Todays memories are tomorrows keepsakes love to youall Aunt Mary Uncle Jim
Angela Hanson
January 21, 2024
Angela Hanson
January 21, 2024
Angela Hanson
January 21, 2024
Angela Hanson
January 21, 2024
Angela
January 20, 2024
I will always remember and cherish all her sewing / crafts and spending many hours in fabric and craft stores finding just the perfect thing she needed to create and finish her projects. I bet anyone that knew her has something she made for them for some holiday or celebration. She was an artist at heart! From Barbie clothes, Halloween costumes, doll clothes, decorations for every holiday, horse show clothes, and home crafts- she could make anything!
Maria Perretta
January 20, 2024
Spending time with her watching movies such as White Christmas where she sang the whole song.
Virginia Babcock
January 20, 2024
Merrylyn will always hold a special place in my heart. She will be missed more than words could convey.
Gwen
January 20, 2024
She took the time to show me and Jessica around when we first came to the states. She was always available to take us to craft shows, special late lunch trips to Canada and Sylvan beach. Gave me the only cookbook I own, Betty Crocker.
Always sewing something special for the grandkids. Her 4th of July cakes were amazing.
Strong, confident and kind, that´s how I remember Merrylyn.
Barbara Slate Schneider
January 20, 2024
Merrylyn was in my life for many many years and was more than a sister-in law1 We had children about the same time and spent lots of time as moms raising them together. I will always treasure those memories with her.
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