LINCOLN – Merle Phinney-Larlee, wife of Leon Larlee, passed over Friday, Sept. 6, 2008, with her loving husband at her side, at their home. She was born Oct. 9, 1919, in Lincoln, the daughter of Florence (Neal) and Hartwell Phinney. She and Lee were to have celebrated their third wedding anniversary, Oct. 6, 2008. In addition to her husband, Merle is survived by two daughters and “sons,” Sheryl and Victor Jipson and Laurene and Roger B. Windsor; grandchildren, Kristi and fiance, Tom, Jenifer and husband, Daren Mason and Roger C. and Sarah Windsor; great-grandchildren, Tanner and Kaylie Mason, Katie and Anna Windsor; nine stepchildren, Mike, Steve, Danny, David, Bill, Linda, Tammy, Lynn and Kathy and their families; two sisters, Lillian and husband, Ronald Boone, and Marion Wilson; sisters-in-law, Marie Harding and Carolyn Phinney; “adopted family,” Ellen and Gerald Butterfield and their family; several nieces, nephews and cousins. Merle was predeceased by her parents; her first husband of nearly 50 years, Laurin C. Phinney; grandson, Travis Jipson; sister, Viola and husband, Robert Hall; brothers, Earl and Hartwell; and brother-in-law, Woodrow Wilson. Merle’s wish was to be cremated. A memorial service will be held 1 p.m. Wednesday at Clay Funeral Home, 7 Lee Road, Lincoln, with the Rev. Dr. Bruce Young and the Rev. Darrell Joiner officiating. Merle had a passion for the care and love of animals, so in lieu of flowers, the family asks that those who wish may donate in her name to Penobscot Valley Humane Society. For an online register book, please visit www.clayfuneralhome.com.