BOXFORD – Mrs. Merry Ross Brooks, 87 of Boxford and the loving wife of Paul J. Brooks, Sr., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at the High Pointe House in Haverhill with her devoted family by her side.

Born in Danvers, Merry was the daughter of the late Edward and Hazel (Woodman) Ross and step-daughter of the late Eleanor Ross. She was raised and educated in Danvers and was a graduate of the former Holten Richmond High School, class of 1955. Later in life, Merry continued her education at Essex Aggie where she received her associates degree in floriculture.

Merry's life was a testament to her deep connection with nature and passion for health and wellness. She found solace and joy in her garden, where she tended to both vibrant flowers and luscious vegetables with care and devotion. As a member of the garden club, Merry shared her knowledge and love for gardening with others, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her.

The kitchen was another place where Merry shone bright, showcasing her talent as a great cook who believed in the power of healthy eating. She believed that cooking the basics was the key to learning a wholesome lifestyle in addition to exercise and medicine, and her culinary skills were admired by many.

In addition to her love for gardening and cooking, Merry found pleasure in outdoor activities like camping, playing cards, and hunting for treasures at yard sales or a quick grab on QVC. Her adventurous spirit and zest for life inspired those around her to embrace the simple joys of the world.

Merry Brooks will forever be remembered for her kind heart, nurturing spirit, and unwavering love for nature. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the beauty of the gardens she so dearly cherished.

In addition to her beloved husband, Paul with whom she shared 69 years of marriage, Merry is survived by her children; Cathryn Sorofman and her husband, Howard of O'Fallon, MO, Paul J. Brooks, Jr. and his wife, Lori of Pelham, NH, Jeffrey Brooks and his wife, Andrea of Salem, Christopher Brooks and his wife, Kara of West Friendship, MD and Garret Brooks and his wife, Sandi of Flower Mound, TX; her grandchildren, Hope, Benjamin, Paul III, Samuel, Madison, Mathew and Max and great-grandchildren; Link, Loki, Eli and Thomas. Merry is survived by her step-siblings, David McKenna of Danvers and Deb McKenna Beaubier of NH and many nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family. Merry was the sister of the late Cynthia Oullette.

ARRANGEMENTS: A private graveside service for Merry will be held at Puritan Lawn Memorial Park in Peabody. Relatives and friends will be invited to a memorial service which will be held in August of 2024. Assisting the family with the arrangements is O'Donnell Cremations - Funerals - Celebrations, 167 Maple St., (rte 62) DANVERS. In lieu of flowers, donation is Merry's memory may be made to the Arthritis Foundation, 1355 Peachtree St NE Suite 600, Atlanta, GA 30309 or www.arthritis.org . To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.

Arthritis Foundation
1355 Peachtree St., NE, Suite 600, Atlanta GA 30309
Web: http://www.arthritis.org