Linda A. Merritt, age 79, of Blossvale, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026, at the Siegenthaler Center, with her family at her side.

Linda was born in Utica, on March 25, 1947, to the late Homer and Lillian Reed Hopkins. On May 15, 1965, she was united in marriage to Deryl E, Merritt. She was the mother of two sets of twins. She enjoyed being a homemaker, caring for her family, gardening (both vegetable and flowers), and actively serving her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She was known for her hospitality, frequently inviting folks to dinner following Sunday church services. She worked as an assistant librarian in Bradenton Florida for a number of years, where she often conducted programs with children. She was tremendous friend and helper to all who knew her.

Linda is survived by her loving husband, Deryl; her daughter, Darlene (Eric) Paul of Ava, NY; Dawn (Jeff) Vanderpool of Dover, DE; Scott Merritt of Cleveland, OH; and Peter Merritt of Syracuse, NY. In addition, she was a grandmother to 6 grandchildren: James (Florianne) Vanderpool, John (Fiona) Vanderpool, Laura (Josh) Souza, Katelyn Vanderpool, Nathaniel Paul, and Andrea Paul. She also has two great grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Skyline Baptist Church 7582 New Floyd Rd, Rome, NY 13440 at 10:30AM on August 8, 2026. A food/fellowship will follow immediately after the service. A private interment of her remains will be laid to rest in Westmoreland Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of New Hartford, or Skyline Baptist Church.

Her funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, Rome.

Please offer online condolences at: www.barryfuneralhome.com.