Merlyn E. Riley (Kelly), formerly of Ascutney, VT died peacefully in her sleep on Thursday, March 3, 2022, in Pittsfield, MA. She was born in Hartford, CT to Francis J. and Nellie (Pritchard) Kelly on October 25, 1926. She graduated from the Hartford Hospital School of Nursing in 1947. While working at the hospital she met her future husband. Merlyn married Charles (Chuck) Riley on August 7, 1948, in West Hartford, CT. They were married for 62 years. Chuck and Merlyn lived in many states due to Chuck's work, but after retirement, they settled in Ascutney. They felt at home in New England and Ascutney was a community that they loved. Merlyn was an active member of the Ascutney Home Dem women's group. She was a dedicated, full-time Mom and part-time Registered Nurse, and loved spending time with her family.

She is survived by three sons, Charles A. Riley and wife Susan of Windsor, MA, Lawrence F. Riley and wife Susan of Powell, OH, and Thomas H. Riley and wife Mary of Green Valley, AZ; six grandchildren, Andrew, Matthew, Nathan, Allyssa, Lynn, Sarah and four great grandchildren. She is survived by her brother Francis J Kelly ll Simsbury CT, and other relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, husband and brother Thomas Kelly.

A funeral service will be held Tuesday, June 7, 2022 at 11AM at the Knight Funeral Home in Windsor, VT, with burial to follow in the Ascutneyville Cemetery.

Memorial donations are appreciated. Please send to Hospice of Western and Central MA, 55 Church St., Pittsfield MA, 01201.