Obituary

Worcester – Darlest M. Merkel, 66, of Worcester, passed away peacefully in her home while surrounded by family on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

Darlest is survived by her three children, Marcie Edmonds and her husband, Charlie Edmonds of Southbridge, Theodore Merkel and his wife, Annmarie Chimera-Merkel of Worcester and Adam B. Merkel and his wife, Beverly Davis of Worcester; a brother, James Nicholson of Webster, 11 grandchildren, Lamar Edmonds, Anthony Baxter, Jaeden Baxter, Brennan Edmonds, Jordan Merkel, Vanessa Merkel, Nicholas Gilbert, Benjamin Merkel, Alanna Merkel, Cameron Merkel and Ashton Merkel; 3 great grandchildren; 1 niece and 2 nephews.

Darlest was born in Worcester, daughter of the late James Nicholson and Patricia (Ratte) DeWolfe. Ms. Merkel worked for many years in the healthcare industry working as a dental assistant. Darlest was a loving mother, grandmother and friend to many. Darlest will be deeply missed for her kind loving spirit and larger than life personality.

The funeral for Darlest will be held on Friday, February 27, from the Dirsa-Morin Memorial Chapel 298 Grafton St. with a Mass of Christian Burial to be held at 11 AM in Saint Stephen’s Church 357 Grafton St. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, February 26, from 5 to 7 PM in the funeral home. Flowers may be sent to honor the life of Darlest.

Marchand Memorial Homes is honored to be directing funeral arrangements. To share a memory or to sign her guestbook, please visit www.MarchandMemorialHomes.com

Directions to Funeral Home