Kaye Irene Merrey, 79, of Elkton, MD passed away on January 24, 2025. Miss Merrey was a lifelong resident of Cecil County, born September 30, 1945. She was the daughter of the late Charles and Irene Merrey of Elkton, MD.
Kaye earned a Master of Music Degree in Music Education Piano/Vocal from West Chester, PA. State College and is a retired k-12 Music Teacher for Cecil County Public Schools. Kaye’s family owned and operated a successful business for many years at the corner of High Street and North Street in Elkton known as Wm. B. Merrey & Sons Candy Store.
Kaye was a parishioner at Augustine Parish in Chesapeake City, MD for nearly 45 years and served as Director of Music and Organist for 40 of those years, generously volunteering her time and her musical talents. Over the years, she led both children’s and adult choirs at the church with special programs at Christmas and Easter. She served in the Parish Vestry and was a member of St. Monica’s Guild.
Kaye’s love for music distinguished her as an exceptional musician and vocalist as she traveled around the world. Her kind spirit and passion for music defined her character throughout her life. She held many offices in various organizations throughout the County and State. A member of the local chapter of the Red Hat Society. She was a valued and respected member and past President of Cecil County Choral Society, The Cecil County Arts Council, The Historical Society of Cecil County, The WCCC Woman’s Club of Cecil County and a past president of GFWC The Women’s Club of Cecil County and many others not listed.
Her impact on the lives of her students and the love she shared with her family and friends will forever be cherished. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. Kaye was a devout Christian and belonged to several local church communities over the years.
Kaye is survived by her close cousin, Kim Dotson of Elkton, MD including non-local first cousins Elaine M. Howell, Rose Ann Merrey, Sara Leigh Merrey, and Jeanne Harvey Duncan and the late Hugh Harvey (2022) and cousin, Timothy H. Murphy from out of state.
Special mention to Gary L. Dotson, II, for his loyalty to his cousin Kaye for 21 years of home maintenance and lawncare.
Funeral Services will be held on Monday, February 3, 2025 at R.T. Foard Funeral Home, 259 East Main Street, Elkton, MD 21921 at 1pm for visitation and services at 2pm. Burial will follow at Rosebank Cemetery. The Reverend Doctor Darcy Williams will officiate.