SEARSMONT — Ruth M. Merrifield, 88 of Searsmont, passed away unexpectedly at her home on March 4, 2025. Ruth was born September 9,1936 to Lawrence and Viola (Skinner) Cushman. 

Ruth is survived by three children, Douglas (Mary) Merrifield, Gregory (Jeannie Smith) Merrifield and Patricia (Jason) Fuller; five grandchildren: Erik Thompson, Lacey (Jeremy) Cunningham, Colan Merrifield, Aaron and Sarah Fuller; four great grandchildren: Ashton and Remington Thompson and Chance and Sawyer Cunningham; and three great-great grandchildren, Colton, Ruth and Violet Thompson. 

Ruth is also survived by her siblings George Cushman, David Cushman, Janice Glidden, Dot Sherwood, Mary Baron, Steve Cushman and Larry Cushman; special friends Gene and Luella Merrifield and DeeDee Doughty, as well as many nieces and nephews. 

Ruth is predeceased by her parents; son Scott Merrifield; husband Richard Merrifield, as well as siblings John Cushman, Bob Cushman, Esther Reece, Bertha Ruuk, and James Cushman. 

Ruth graduated from Crosby High School in 1955. After graduation she moved to New Hampshire for two years working as a dressmaker before returning to Searsmont.

She married Richard Merrifield on October 17, 1959. They resided in Searsmont. She worked as a seamstress for many years for Belfast Manufacturing and Creative Apparel.  

Ruth enjoyed reading, knitting, sewing, gardening and watching the Red Sox. If you needed to talk, Ruth was always willing to listen. Her phone was constantly ringing, and her door was always open. She kept her judgments to a minimum and her advice was sound. Ruth had a knack of making you feel better after a call or visit. She had a way of making everyone feel welcome and if you needed something, she always had it. Her sudden loss has left a void for all that knew and loved her that will be felt for a long time. 

Graveside services will be held on May 15, at 1 p.m., at Oak Grove Cemetery, in Searsmont. 

Memories and Condolences may be shared with the family at www.ripostafh.com