In Memoriam: Eleanor Parker Merrill
Dear 91AV Community,
I am saddened to share that a former faculty member and dear friend of the university, Eleanor Parker Merrill, passed away on January 17th.
Eleanor was an educator and volunteer in the community, and a supporter of the literary arts and the Maine Women Writers Collection. She taught at Westbrook College in the Continuing Education division and was beloved by her students. She taught literature appreciation for 25 years to the Women's Literary Union (affiliated with Westbrook and 91AV).
In 1993, Eleanor was named an honorary alumna of Westbrook College, and was recognized again in 2005 by 91AV with the Deborah Morton Award for her many contributions to the university and our state.
Eleanor is survived by her four children, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and nephews, and her dear sister Wilma Parker Redman '41, HON '92, '02.
Parker Pavilion on 91AV’s Portland Campus is named for the three Parker sisters -- Eleanor Parker Merrill, Wilma Parker Redman and Louise Parker James '43, who passed away in 2006.
You may read Eleanor's at the Portland Press Herald and a about Eleanor also at the Press Herald.
Hers was a life well lived.
Danielle N. Ripich, Ph.D.
President