Patricia Merryman – Rehobeth Beach, Del.
On July 30, 2023, Patricia Ann Cover Merryman of Rehobeth Beach (Millsboro), Del., departed this life to be welcomed by her God after a battle with brain cancer. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, on Jan. 7, 1936, she came to her forever home with parents, George and Helen Cover, in Belle Vernon, at age 7. “Pat,” or “Patsy,” as she was called, attended Bellmar High School and was awarded an art scholarship when she graduated in 1953. She was an accomplished painter in oils and pastels, but went on to become equally proficient in ceramics and restoring antiques. Her home displayed her talent and was as welcoming as she was. Her flair spilled over to her scrumptious cooking, and family members remember the holiday feasts that she lovingly prepared. Patsy was a beautiful, artistic soul who loved deeply and was loved in return. Although shy, she had strong friendships that lasted a lifetime, particularly with Vanessa Mirtich, her daughter-in-law, Angela Winnett, and sister-in-law, Sandy Cover. Her compassion was demonstrated in the way she took care of Uncle Edgar Winnett until his death and in her generosity to family in need. Patsy was preceded in death by her parents, George and Helen Davison Cover of Belle Vernon; and by the love of her life, husband Thomas Merryman, who passed away in 2017 from ALS. She was his devoted nurse and treasured all the travels, adventures and joys of their 25 years together. Surviving her are her brother, Sam (Sandy) Cover of Belle Vernon; her beloved children, Greg William Winnett of Fallowfield Township, and daughters Micki Burton Welsh of Woodbridge, Va., and Debra Burton Scott, who made her home with her mother. All her children were in constant contact with her, and her daughters lived with her until she lost her battle in her home. Also surviving are her grandchildren, Jillian Winnett Thorn of Fallowfield Township, Christopher Scott of Lynchburg, Va., and Amanda Scott Cardenas of Richmond, Va.; as well as great-grandchildren, Olivia Whitehead, Gracie, Emily and Harley Cardenas, Victoria and Alexis Scott. She is also survived by stepchildren, Janice Winnett Jacobs of North Charleroi and Tommy Merryman, Kelly Merryman Greenway, Theresa Merryman Mullican and Robin Merryman Yatty, all of the Virginia-Maryland area. A celebration of life ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 11, 2023, at First United Methodist Church of Belle Vernon with Pastor Charles Jack.
