ORANGE-Dorothy V. (Thompson) Merchant-Wilson, 78 of 64 Mechanic Street, formerly of Worcester died Sunday, April 20th in her home after an illness. Her husband of 46 years Francis H. Wilson died in 1998. She leaves 4 sons; Roland E. Merchant of Apopka, FL, James T. Merchant of Sutton, John A. Merchant of Worcester and Donald T. Merchant of Spencer. A daughter Nancy L. Merchant with whom she lived, and 2 sisters; Virginia M. Herr of Baldwinville, and Barbara L. Wiggins of Rumford, ME. 18 grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren and many nephews and nieces.
She was born in Winchendon the daughter of James E. and Lillian V. (Moriarty) Thompson and had lived in Worcester for 36 years before moving to Orange 14 years ago. She was a graduate of Murdock High School in Winchendon. Mrs. Merchant-Wilson had worked as a nurses aide, and also in the medical resource department at Grafton State Hospital. At one she had been a saleswoman for Stanley Products, and a foster parent in Worcester for many years. Mrs. Merchant-Wilson was a member of VFW Post 2158 in Winchendon, and the Golden Age Club of Baldwinville.
The funeral will be Wednesday, April 23rd from O'Connor Brothers Funeral Home, 592 Park Avenue, with a service at 10:00 AM in the funeral home. Burial will be in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. Calling hours are Tuesday, April 22nd from 7:00 until 9:00 PM.