Laconia----- Eva F. Merchant 81, of Union Avenue Laconia NH, passed away peacefully, although suddenly. Thursday, April 30, 2015 at her home. Eva was born May 17, 1933 in Bergman, Arkansas, daughter of the late John W. and Frances L. (Roberts) Downes. Eva was such a charismatic individual. She owned and operated Tinkerville Country Store in Lyman NH and Little Eva's Attic in Littleton NH for many years before retiring. Eva embarked on many different life adventures including spending several years in Moncks Corner, SC before returning to NH. She was a gardener, an avid card player, problem solver, a great dancer, a dear friend, devoted grandmother, cherished sibling, and the most hardworking, loving, creative and wonderful mother anyone could ever have. She will be missed dearly by all her friends, family, and loved ones. Eva took joy in many different activities including yard-sales, puzzle making, and playing bingo.
Eva is survived by two sons, Michael R. Merchant and his wife Donna of Meredith NH and Lawrence W. Merchant and his wife Diana of San Antonio TX; her two daughters, Donna L. Tavello and her husband Don Tavello, of Concord NH and Sherry L. Ryan and her husband Walter Ryan of Belmont NH; a sister Sarah Valentine and her husband James Valentine of Harrison AR; her seven grandchildren, Emma Kerr, Elaine Haggard, Daniel Waltham, Michelle Bolser, Bonita Ponzio, Sarah Merchant and Allison Plourde as well as six great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents she is predeceased by James E. Merchant and Amos Downes.
There will be no calling hours or funeral service.
For those who wish, in lieu of flowers or memorial contributions, donations may be made in Eva's honor to Beyond Stage 4 Inc., 6 Wink Road, Meredith, NH 03253 www.BeyondStage4.org.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, N.H. is assisting the family with the arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial go to www.wilkinsonbeane.com.