She was born July 3, 1932 in Oneonta the daughter of the late James and Mabel (Hillman) Powell, Sr.
Elizabeth graduated from Oneonta High School the Class of 1949. Following graduation she enlisted in the US Air Force until she was honorably discharged in 1953.
Elizabeth married Donald Merchant on July 26, 1952 in Gulfport, Mississippi. Donald predeceased her on April 15, 1998
She worked briefly as a retail clerk and as a home health aide, a job that she really enjoyed.
Elizabeth was a devoted wife and mother who loved and supported her family wholeheartedly. She also loved her parents and siblings tremendously and cherished both her childhood growing up in West Oneonta and annual family reunions as an adult.
She loved to read, an activity that she enjoyed from childhood and throughout her adult years. In her younger years she enjoyed bowling and was on a bowling league.
Elizabeth is survived by her children, Matthew L. Merchant, Martin D. and Jeanine Merchant, Phyllis Merchant, Sandra Merchant, and Lisa Lybolt; many grandchildren and great grandchildren and several great great grandchildren; sisters, Thressa Reynolds, Colleen Shackelton, Cathleen Neer, Jacqueline and Chet McAdams; sister-in-law, Betty Powell; as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister, Shirley Sparaco; and brothers, Brian Powell and James Powell, Jr.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, April 23, 2024 in the Bookhout Funeral Home, 357 Main Street, Oneonta from 3:00 to 5:00 PM. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 1:00 PM with the Rev. Stephen D. Fournier officiating. Burial will be in the West Oneonta Cemetery.
For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to either Helios Care, Inc, 297 River Street Service Road, Oneonta, NY 13820 or to the Alzheimer’s Association, Leatherstocking Region Office, 140 Highway 33 West, Suite 2, Cooperstown, NY, 13326.
To send the family an online condolence please visit www.bookhoutfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are by the Bookhout Funeral Home, Oneonta.
