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MARGERY MERRICK Obituary
MERRICK, Mrs. Margery Randolph Daniel, died on Thursday, May 23, 2013. She was born in New York City on November 2, 1924, daughter to Margery Durant, the daughter of W.C. Durant, founder of General Motors and Chevrolet, and Robert W. Daniel, a Virginia state senator. Her parents purchased and restored Brandon Plantation on the James River, where she spent most of her childhood and became an accomplished equestrian and marksman. She attended St. Catherine's School in Richmond and there made lifelong friendships with four others, who became known as "The Filthy Five." Heartfelt hugs sent to lifelong friend, Kathleen "Kike" Stringfellow. In 1942, she graduated from The Foxcroft School in Middleburg. There she advanced her artistic skills in watercolor and colored pencils and developed an intense interest in social services as World War II engulfed everyone's daily lives. After graduation, she spent the next four years working with the Red Cross as a nurse's aid at McGuire Hospital and the U.S. Army and Air Force Base in Richmond. Following in her mother's steps, she took flying lessons and became an accomplished pilot in small, single engine airplanes. Her calling to volunteer with the Red Cross led to the "love of her life and husband," Thomas B. Merrick III. To her, he was always "Tommy." Tom Merrick had just returned from years of service in WWII and they met during a Red Cross mixer, where it was love at first sight. They married in 1946. After Tom graduated from UVA, they purchased the farm, The Meadows, in 1948 and started their life and family of five children. Tommy, her husband of 48 years, passed away in 1994. Also preceding her in death was daughter, Margery "Midge" Merrick; sister, Edwina Sanger; and brother, Robert W. Daniel Jr. In 1962, Margery was in a horseback riding accident and suffered a severe brain injury. After years of determination, true grit and beating all odds, she recovered and taught herself to use her left hand so she could continue to paint landscapes and her favorite dog portraits. She lived a full and wonderful life for more than an additional 50 years! She is survived by four sons and their wives, Thomas "Tim" and Judy, Gordon and Sandi, Daniel "Duke" and Sharon, Randolph "Randy" and Caroline "Sis" Merrick; grandsons, Will and John Coles, Thomas Merrick and Francis Gehman. The family gives loving thanks to her companion and "soul sister," Sarah E. Murphy. Special thanks to caregivers Louise Frye and Mary Green and the devoted care of Legacy Hospice and nurse, Mary English. Interment to be held 10 a.m. Saturday, June 1, 2013 at Glendower's Christ Episcopal Church in Keene. The memorial service will follow at Grace Episcopal Church, Keswick at 1 p.m. A Celebration of Life to follow immediately at the Keswick Hunt Club in Keswick. In lieu of flowers, the family requests, with great appreciation, memorial contributions be made to the Orange Free Clinic, P.O. Box 441, Orange, Va. 22960. Preddy Funeral Home of Gordonsville is in charge of arrangements.
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
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Memories and Condolences
for MARGERY MERRICK
May 13, 2019
Friend
Denise Beasley / Ladybug Walace
Omg I'm just seeing this I worked for her family with my aunt Margie back in the late 70"s Such a nice family to work for and she was so nice I'm so sorry Randy,Duke,Tom, Gordon my deepest condolences to you and your family
January 9, 2014
Antoinette Arsic
I lived with "Margie" in the 90s - I am so sorry to now be reading of her passing. I really thought she would outlive us all because of her incredible strength and determination. My mother, who passed in September remembered her as being my "other mother" for a short time. My condolences to the family. I cherish my memories of her, and her artwork.
June 28, 2013
Cheryl Johnson
I have so many wonderful memories of Margie, Tom and life at the Meadows. There has never been a more generous and fun loving family as the Merrick clan. My prayers and blessings are with you all - Duke, Tim and Gordon. Much love, Cheryl
June 4, 2013
Ann Adams
I'm sorry I never met your mother, she sounds like quite a wonderful woman! My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this time.
May 31, 2013
Mimi Daniel
My thoughts and prayers are with the Merrick family. Cousin Margery was a wonderful, adventurous and talented lady. May your many memories help you during this time of loss.
May 31, 2013
Gloria Johnson Gilmore
I remember the Merrick Family name from my childhood days living near Happy Creek. Upon returning to this area, met and shared musical experiences with Duke through combined religious services with Grace Episcopal. I enjoyed reading about your mother's rich history and contributions---a great legacy. May God grant her peace and the joys of heaven. My condolences to all of the Merrick family.
May 31, 2013
All my love to the Merrick boys during this time. Many memories of The Meadows and a wonderful year spent there. Prayers Kathie Brown Lashley
May 30, 2013
Julie Carlson
Tim, Gordon, Duke & last but not least, Randy! Your Mom has been a part of my heart for over 40 years, and I can only say I am deeply sorry for your loss and pray for all of you and your families as you try to come to terms with her death. She was a special, original person, and really so much fun! She was an inspiration to me back so many years ago.! I wish you God's blessings and will pray for your family as you face her funeral and times to come. God's love, Julie Ann Carlson/Minnesota!
May 30, 2013
So sorry to hear about your loss. What a woman she was! You all will be in our prayers....Adrianna Cowan-Waddy and Family
May 29, 2013
Dear Gordon and Family:
I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of your mother.
What a talented, accomplished person she was - please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Judy Faust
May 28, 2013
Tim and family, I think of the Wonderful memories I have of knowing your family. My prayers and thoughts go out for all of you. Your MaMa was very special. Willie Cropp
May 28, 2013
Lyna Watson
Tim so sorry for your loss. What an amazing woman. Wish I could have met her. Our thoughts are with you.
May 27, 2013
Keena Harwood
I am deeply sorry for your loss.
May 26, 2013
Vicky Goodle Polson
So sorry for your loss. Peace be with you all.
May 26, 2013
Brenda Goodloe
Rest In Peace Mrs. Merrick.
May 26, 2013
Brenda Goodloe
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you, she was a wonderful person.
May 26, 2013
Barbara Venzke
I had the pleasure of knowing Margery when I was working for her brother, Rep. Bob Daniel. She and "Cunnie" would visit Washington occasionally and I so enjoyed their company. I still have a gift they gave me many, many years ago and I will always treasure it. My thoughts are with you, especially Tim whom I have known over the years.
May 26, 2013
Lisa Davis Keenan
What an enduring spirit and an amazing woman. My thoughts are with you all.
May 26, 2013
Shirley Rodgers Martin
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
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