Patricia Mereen

Norwich — Janet Patricia Leland Mereen, of Norwich, passed away peacefully in her home on Sunday, March 25, 2018, having just last week celebrated her 92nd birthday surrounded by family.

She was born March 17, 1926, in East Longmeadow, Mass., the daughter of Gilbert Leland and Gertrude (Flanders) Leland. She grew up in Dover-Foxcroft, Maine, and was a graduate of the Foxcroft Academy and Farmington State Teachers’ College.

She met Samuel Mereen at Maine Central Institute, where she was a teacher, and they wed on July 19, 1953, in Dover-Foxcroft. They were married for 50 years before his passing.

Many may recall Pat from her years as a home economics teacher in Norwich schools. She was very active in the community, serving on the Norwich Board of Education, Kiwanis, in her book club, and in Churchwomen United, who previously honored Pat with their Valiant Woman award for service to her church and community. She was a member of the First Congregational Church of Norwich, where she held several leadership roles over the years.

Pat was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and “Pat Pat.” Loving mother to Thomas (Martha) Mereen of Bedford, Pa.; John Paul (Nancy Bram) Mereen of Norwich; Margaret (Timothy) Job of Norwich; and James (Carrie) Mereen of Charlottesville, Va. Proud grandmother and great-grandmother of Kathryn Mereen (Thomas Wilk) (greats Samuel and Jack); Eric Job; Christa Mereen; Christopher (Allison) (great Sophia) Mereen; and Kevin Job. She was preceded in death by twin grandsons (John Paul and Nancy) and grandson Zachary Mereen (Jim and Carrie).

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 31, at First Congregational Church of Norwich led by the Rev. Dr. Sue Prichard. Family will be receiving afterward in the Parish House. Arrangements for a private interment are being handled by Church and Allen Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that a contribution be made in Pat’s name to First Congregational Church of Norwich or the charity of your choice.