Meredith E. Presbrey

Meredith Evans Presbrey, 86 years old, died October 14th, 2025, on Nantucket. She passed away peacefully after a long battle with Alzheimer's, held in the loving arms of her daughter, Nina Liddle.

Meredith was born on July 8th, 1939, in Providence, Rhode Island, to Frederic Gibson Presbrey and Margaret "Peggy" Barnes Presbrey. She grew up in Seekonk, Massachusetts, and attended Lincoln School in Providence from 1942 to 1957. From an early age, Meredith was an exceptional student and developed a lifelong love of learning. In her senior year, she was awarded First Prize in the Lawrence Mayers Peace Essay Contest, an early reflection of her thoughtful nature and her commitment to justice and understanding.

After graduation, Meredith attended Bryn Mawr College, where she continued to pursue her intellectual curiosity. She had a deep sense of purpose and went on to earn a Master of Divinity degree from Harvard Divinity School, where she studied ethics and public policy. She later received her Doctor of Ministry degree in Anglican Studies and Medical Ethics from The Theological Foundation.

Her spirituality led her to serve in roles that reflected her devotion to faith and community. Meredith was an Interfaith Chaplain at Hospice Services of Massachusetts and served as President of the Cape Cod Council of Churches. She was deeply engaged in pastoral care and programs that supported those in need. Meredith's ability to listen with empathy and to lead with humility left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Meredith was formerly married to Peter Sand Hallowell. Together they shared the joy of raising their three children - Thomas Jewett Hallowell, Margaret Barnes Hallowell, and Nina Hallowell Liddle.

From her earliest professional years, Meredith dedicated herself to advocacy and volunteer work that reflected her dedication to community and justice. She served as President of the Junior League and became a passionate voice for women's and children's rights, even testifying before Congress on issues affecting families and equality. Her dedication to civic life extended to local government as well - she served as President of the school board and as an elected town official in Alpine, New Jersey. Meredith also served on the Board of Trustees of Pomfret School in Connecticut. Her work - professional and volunteer - reflected her belief in fairness, and service.

In her later years, Meredith faced Alzheimer's disease with quiet strength. Her daughter, Nina, remained by her side throughout her journey, and together they found moments of deep connection and love that transcended words. Meredith's life was a testament to the beauty of kindness, compassion, curiosity, and presence. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of her children, family, and friends.

Meredith is survived by her three children - Thomas Jewett Hallowell and his wife, Nancy Hallowell; Margaret Barnes Hallowell and her partner, Stephen Patrick Langer; and Nina Hallowell Liddle and her husband, Matthew Liddle. She was the proud grandmother of Hannah Pasman Hylan, Caroline Hallowell Bevilacqua, Julia Hallowell, and Margaret Liddle, and the great-grandmother of Colette Bevilacqua. She was predeceased by her younger brother, Frederic "Rick" Gibson Presbrey Jr., who passed away in June 2025, and by her parents, Frederic Gibson Presbrey and Margaret "Peggy" Barnes Presbrey.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers, friends, and community members who offered compassion and support throughout her journey. A private service will be held with family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Palliative & Supportive Care of Nantucket (PASCON).