Merle Friday (4 Nov 1937 - 15 Sep 2025)

We have very fond memories of Merle at car shows . Merle would always make a fuss of our dog Bobby. It also came to light that Merle knew Nigel’s mum Yvonne when Nigel’s brother Paul went to school with Gary. She was a truly lovely lady. Nigel and Lynn

In memory of Merle. We have many happy memories of Merle at the classic car shows we all went to. Deepest condolences to Paul and family.

Remembering the many conversations I had with Merle at the car club.

Dear Paul & Family,
We were so sorry to hear that your dear Mum has passed away.
We have happy memories of chats with her at many car shows and her lovely sense
of humour.
Denis,Jane and Michael Brunger contributed to our donation.

Merle and mum ( Sheila) were really close as children, like sisters.

Mum enjoyed Merle's visits to Cornwall when they would reminisce and discuss eye problems!

There is a family story of Sheila and Merle going to Corpus Christi Fair, in Penzance, having a fun time, and upon returning home, Merle having a halfpenny left going to the Post Office and buying a postage stamp!

Fond memories of a dear cousin.

In memory of Mrs. Friday, Mother to our very good friend Paul.

In memory of Mrs. Friday, Mother to our good friend Paul.

In loving memory of Merle

Written by Merle’s cousin, Jackie…

I’m so very saddened at the loss of my cousin, Merle.
When I think back to early childhood, when I was about 6 years old and Merle was about 10, as my Mum was unwell and needed time to recover, I remember, with great fondness, being sent to stay at Merle’s house for a term, the pair of us going a short distance away each day to Penpol school together.
Life seemed like it was full of so much fun – the independence and trust bestowed upon us at such a young age was incredible really, although it was all so ‘normal’ back then.
Merle felt like my big Sister at the time, keeping an eye on me and leading the way in all our shared adventures climbing trees in The Avenue, bird nesting in the plantation, swimming in the weir and traveling back to St Just together at weekends, to see my younger brother, John and the rest of the family.
One weekend, having had the news that Mum had finally recovered from shingles and that my little Sister, Janice, had just been born, I remember leaping off the bus in St. Just Square and running as fast as I could to get home to meet her, totally forgetting that poor Merle was left struggling trying to get all of our luggage off the bus and back home on her own! She must have felt so abandoned at the time (but we did reminisce and laugh about it many times over the years) and she soon learnt that once the initial novelty wore off, a new baby in the house was actually a bit boring; just eating, sleeping and crying, and so adventures with Merle very quickly resumed, with great gusto.
We spent many happy school holidays together in Cornwall, with Merle staying with us most weekends; climbing rocks at Cape Cornwall, swimming in the sea with our dog and trips out on the boat, which our Dad kept moored there.
Even when our lives went separate directions in adulthood, as is inevitable, we always remained in touch, sharing the highs and the lows of life in frequent telephone calls, as well as the occasional opportunity to actually get together in person and to catch up about life and what we and our families had been up to.
All the cousins will feel the huge sadness at the loss of those chats now, but we’re all so grateful for the kindness and fun she brought to all our lives and will cherish those memories, to help us through the sadder moments.

fondest memories and deepest sympathies
from the townsend family

Merle spent many weekends and holidays with Jackie, John and I in St. Just and those times will always be some of my happiest memories. Her zest for life and adventures was contagious and more than once it got us into a bit of trouble - the best kind, the kind that makes us laugh when we remember.
She loved all animals, wild or domestic, but especially dogs. Whether it was a family pet or a stray that needed some kindness, Merle always had time, love and patience for them.
There are so many great memories of laughter, stories, long walks and shared times.
We will so sadly miss her.

Remembering all the special memories of a beautiful lady

Love and hugs xxxxx

When I think of Auntie Merle, I’m instantly transported to moments filled with laughter and warmth that only she could bring.
Auntie Merle was very proud of her family. She had a beautiful way of keeping us all connected, weaving together stories from across the miles. Her updates were never just news—they were little windows into the lives of family members in the UK and told with such affection that you felt closer to everyone, no matter the distance.
She was authentic and kind, with a welcoming heart. Some of my fondest memories are of summer afternoons spent in her garden or conservatory, sipping wine, sharing sandwiches, and swapping stories that made us laugh until our sides ached. And then there were the Saturday night phone calls—her voice on the other end, full of life, catching me up on the latest happenings with our family in the UK. Those conversations were like a warm hug across the miles.
Every moment with Auntie Merle was special. Her laughter, and presence created a sense of belonging that I will carry with me always. Though I will miss those times dearly, I find comfort in the lasting tapestry of memories she leaves behind stitched together with laughter, and the kind of connection that never fades.
You will always be in our hearts Auntie Merle
Lorraine Davies

Merle was a force of nature — calm, wise, independent, fun, and endlessly generous. Her strength lifted those around her, and her courage inspired all who knew her. Though she is no longer with us, the light Merle brought into the world will never fade.

Her legacy lives on in the love she gave and the example she set. Her love for her family was immense, and she was so very proud of each one of you. I hope the beautiful memories you shared together will offer comfort in the difficult months ahead.

One of my favourite memories with Merle will always be our overnight trip to Canterbury — sharing stories, walking the cobbled streets, and finding ourselves in a couple of pubs, consuming far too much wine. Her beautiful accent is forever etched in my mind.

May she rest in peace. Love Rob, Cath and Adam xx