Salisbury - Ernest G. Merrill, age 79, of Salisbury, passed away on Sunday, September 12, 2021, at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Boston. He was born on January 25, 1942, in Newburyport, MA, the son of the late Ernest D. and Helen F. (Souther) Merrill. He was raised and educated in Newburyport and graduated from Newburyport High School. Ernest served his country in the U.S. Army and was stationed at Fort Dix, NJ.

He had worked at Emerson Electric in Salisbury as well as Northshore Volkswagen in Salem, MA, for many years.

Ernest enjoyed working outside in his yard and talking to people. He also liked going fishing and was known to tell a "tall tale" from time to time. He had a passion for old classic cars from the 1950s era, especially Mercs. He had attended many local car shows over the years.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Laura Jane (Kent) Merrill of Salisbury, MA; his three children, son Ernest Merrill Jr. and wife Renee of Exeter, NH; his daughters, Lauren "Laurie" Thompson and husband Mark of Nashua, NH, and Sheila Little and husband Dr. Gavin Little of Salisbury, MA; his two adored granddaughters, Emma Rose Thompson of Nashua, NH, and Taylor Rose Little of Salisbury, MA. He is also survived by his three sisters, Dora, Heidi and Kimmy; his three brothers, Doug, Paul and Robert Merrill; as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Besides his parents Ernest was predeceased by his two brothers, Roland and Bruce Merrill; his three sisters, Priscilla, Ernestine and Pamela.

At the family's request calling hours are private.

Twomey, LeBlanc & Conte Funeral Home, 193 High Street, Newburyport, MA 01950 is entrusted with the arrangements. Please visit www.tlcfuneralhome.com to sign the online guest book.