Ann Elizabeth Slocomb Merrill passed away peacefully on Monday, Sept. 25, 2023 Born in 1931 to Robert and Ann Slocomb in Rochester, Ann graduated from Syracuse University with a degree in home economics. She worked in the food industry at SU for a few years then went on to teaching home economics in the Syracuse school system.
Her true passion in life was horticulture and all aspects of gardening. Ann was a Master Gardener and master flower show judge, always teaching in her sweet and quiet way her knowledge of floral arrangements according to the rules of judging. For over 50 years she exhibited and judged all over New York, including the NYS Fair. When looking for her at home, friends and family knew to look first in her garden!
She is an honorary member of the Onondaga Garden Club and a life member and past president of the Skaneateles Garden Club. She served as the director of the Sixth District Federated Garden Clubs of New York State. She was a member of the altar guild at St. Pauls Cathedral, Syracuse, and at St. James Episcopal Church in Skaneateles. She also volunteered for many years at the St. James Thrift Shop. She was a member of The Washington Cathedral, Nature Conservancy, Baltimore Woods and so many nature organizations.
Ann enjoyed many years of European travel with her husband and members of her family. She loved the United Kingdom for its gardens and its history.
She is predeceased by her husband, Colonel Charles H. Merrill, and brothers Robert and James. She is survived by her daughter, Linda M. Arthur (Skaneateles), sister Peggy S. Hoff, cousin Richard Slocomb, several nieces and nephews and her granddog, Tyler. Ann Loved dogs.
Linda would like to thank everyone at The Nottingham in Jamesville for their compassionate care.
Services at a later date. In lieu of flowers, you can send donations to St. James Episcopal Church or the Skaneateles Garden Club, P.O. Box 96. Skaneateles, NY 13152.
To send condolences, visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.
