Obituary of Merlene L. Bennett

Merlene Bennett passed away peacefully on February 16, 2023. She was 87 years old. Merlene was born in Hodgdon, ME and her early years were spent moving steadily south with her parents Reverend H. John and Winona Murchie. The Murchies ended up staying in Woburn, MA where Merlene graduated from Woburn High School and later graduated from Lowell State Teachers College. Much of her career was spent teaching First Grade at the Malcolm White School in Woburn. Merlene married Robert “Bob” Bennett in Woburn. They were married for over 60 years until Bob passed away in 2021. Merlene and Bob had three children, Robert, Scot, and John. After years of being in a house full of men, Merlene was delighted when (eventually) the boys married. Merlene became very close with her daughters-in-law and often seemed happier to see them then her own boys. Grammy Bennett also was delighted to see the wonderful men and woman that her grandchildren had become. Not too long ago, she had the pleasure of meeting her first great-grandchild and was so happy that there was a new baby in the family. When not working and raising their children, Merlene and Bob enjoyed socializing, and could often be found tearing up the dance floor at many of the local venues. They also enjoyed spending time with their friends and neighbors, and would often vacation in Old Orchard Beach, ME with other families. After Bob and Merlene retired, they moved to Florida to begin the next chapter in their life together. They made the most of their retirement by traveling extensively, often with friends. Their favorite vacation spot was Hawaii and they traveled there many times over the years. In addition to traveling, they enjoyed playing cards and socializing with their friends. Ever the girly-girl, Merlene always made sure she her hair was done just so and that there were always seasonally appropriate decorations in her home. As she got older Merlene began spending more time traveling to doctors’ offices than to Hawaii, but she still managed to keep busy. She kept her mind active by playing cards, and everyone knew not to call her during “Wheel” and Jeopardy. She also enjoyed sitcoms and was a big fan of the Hallmark Channel. Right up until the end, Merlene kept her wits and her sense of humor. She enjoyed speaking with her family regularly catching up on the day and joking around. After 87 years, Merlene leaves a legacy of love, learning, and laughter. She will be missed very much. Merlene is survived by her three sons, Robert Bennett and his wife Tina, Scot Bennett and his wife Sue, and John Bennett and his wife Pamela. She is also survived by six grandchildren, Scot, Jr., Ryan, Sean, Ethan, Blake, and Abigail; and one great grandson, Tyson. Visiting hours will be at the Graham Funeral Home, 3 Arlington Rd., Woburn on Thursday, February 23 from 3:00-6:00 pm. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Friday, February 24 at 11:00 am, followed by burial at the Woodbrook Cemetery in Woburn. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Merlene’s memory may be made to High Pointe Hospice House, c/o Tufts Medicine Care at Home, 360 Merrimack St., Suite 425, Lawrence, MA 01843