A Life Well Lived

Eleanor N. (Nigro) Merrill, a beloved wife, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 96 on May 5, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. Eleanor’s extraordinary life was marked by her unwavering dedication to education, her passion for history, and her unwavering spirit of adventure.

Early Life and Education

Eleanor was born on [date of birth] in Boston, Massachusetts, to Eugene A. and Mary L. (Tecce) Nigro. She graduated from Reading Memorial High School in 1945 and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in history from Boston University in 1949. It was at BU that Eleanor met her future husband, Edgar J. Merrill, whom she married in 1953.

Teaching and Counseling Career

Eleanor’s passion for education led her to a long and distinguished career in the field. She taught in Westfield, Massachusetts, Methuen, Massachusetts, and Augusta, Maine, where she and Edgar moved after he was appointed the State Director of Child Welfare services. In Maine, Eleanor taught at the Lou M. Buker Intermediate School and Hodgkins Middle School, and later completed her Master’s Degree in Education at Southern Maine University.

Eleanor’s dedication to her students extended beyond the classroom. She became a coach to the girl’s field hockey team and supervised numerous class trips. Her unwavering belief in the power of education inspired her students to pursue their dreams and become lifelong learners.

Historical Preservation and Antiquing

Eleanor’s love for history extended beyond the classroom. She became a passionate collector and restorer of antiques, finding joy in the stories and lives that these objects represented. Together with her husband, Edgar, she opened an antique shop in Vassalboro, Maine, and became active in the world of antiques. Eleanor’s expertise quickly became recognized, and she was sought after for estate appraisals throughout New England.

Travel and Adventure

Eleanor’s thirst for knowledge and adventure took her around the world. She traveled extensively in Europe and accompanied Augusta students on trips to England, Scotland, and Ireland. Her love for exploration and discovery inspired her students and friends alike.

Community Involvement

Throughout her life, Eleanor remained an active and engaged member of her community. She volunteered at the Maine Attorney General’s office as a consumer advocate and served on the local board of the American Field Service, an international student exchange program. Her commitment to helping others made a lasting impact on countless lives.

Retirement and Later Years

In 2000, Eleanor returned to her roots in Reading, where she continued to pursue her passions. She took up painting in her 80s, creating beautiful works of art that she shared with her loved ones. She also volunteered at the Mission of Deeds, providing support to families in need.

Legacy and Memory

Eleanor N. (Nigro) Merrill will be remembered as a remarkable woman who touched the lives of countless people. She was a dedicated educator, a passionate historian, an adventurous traveler, and a loving friend. Her legacy will live on through the generations of students she inspired, the historical artifacts she preserved, and the memories she created with her loved ones.

Expression of Sympathy

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in Eleanor’s memory to the Good Shepherd Food Bank, which provides support to struggling Maine individuals and families.

Contact Information

Good Shepherd Food Bank
3121 Hotel Rd.
Auburn, ME 04210