Susan Lynn Timberlake-Merritt

Good gentles, kind family, and cherished friends,

We gather this day beneath Heaven's watchful gaze to honor and celebrate the wondrous life of Susan Lynn Timberlake-Merritt: a radiant spirit whose laughter rang as brightly as the bells of a festival morn.

Born in the fair seaside town of Newport, Rhode Island, on the fifteenth day of May in the year 1956, Susan graced this world with kindness, curiosity, and a heart forever yearning for adventure. Though her earthly journey has drawn to its gentle close just shy of her seventieth year, the joy she bestowed upon those around her shall echo through time eternal.

A learned woman with an Associate Degree to her name, Susan spent many faithful years as a travel agent for the United States government, helping countless souls chart courses to distant lands and grand adventures. Yet she herself was no stranger to wandering roads and faraway shores. Alongside her beloved husband and truest companion, Scott Merritt, she traversed the world aboard many a splendid cruise, delighting in foreign ports, rich cultures, and the fellowship found wherever their travels carried them.

Susan's soul belonged in places where music danced upon the wind and merriment filled the air. She held a special affection for the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, where she found kinship among dreamers, storytellers, and revelers alike. With eager heart she also looked toward the growth of the Rhode Island Renaissance Fair, anticipating many more days of laughter, costumes, song, and celebration.

She delighted in life's simple treasures as much as its grand adventures: savoring Scott's lovingly prepared meals, losing herself in the tales of "Outlander," and sharing quiet evenings rich with warmth and companionship. Her joy was never measured by riches or grandeur, but by moments shared with those she loved most dearly.

Susan leaves behind her devoted husband, Scott Merritt, whose steadfast love was her harbor through life's many seasons. She is also survived by two loving sisters, three caring brothers, Scott's son Andrew, and a wide fellowship of family and friends who shall forever keep her memory close within their hearts.

She now reunites beyond this mortal veil with her beloved parents, Herbert and Ellen Timberlake, who preceded her in death.

A Celebration of Life shall be held at a later date, where stories shall be shared, goblets raised, tears gently shed, and laughter once more carried upon the air in Susan's honor. May all who gather remember not only the sorrow of parting, but the immeasurable blessing of having walked beside such a vibrant and joyful soul.

So let it be known throughout every fairground, every harbor, and every wandering road: Susan Lynn Timberlake-Merritt lived boldly, loved deeply, laughed freely, and leaves behind a legacy woven of kindness, adventure, and enduring love.

Well met, dear Susan... until we meet again.