Daphne Martin

Gardner- Daphne Martin,96, died Thursday, December 8, 2022, at Athol Hospital.

She was born in Lewiston, Maine on April 9, 1926, a daughter of the late Elbridge A. and Henrietta (Rafuce) Merrill.

Daphne loved the outdoors. She enjoyed riding her bicycle until her late 80s, hiking in the Quabbin Reservoir with her dogs, and spending time with her precious grandchildren. She was very self-sufficient, mowing and raking her lawn into her 90s. As she started to slow down, she continued her love for nature by sitting on her backyard swing and listening to the birds.

She is survived by her son, Steven Martin of Gardner, MA; two daughters, Sue Casavant of New Hampshire and Janice Taylor of Alaska; five grandchildren, Tyler Casavant, Courtney Casavant of New Hampshire, Russ Taylor, Jamie Taylor of Alaska, Jason Martin of Athol; and two great-grandchildren in Alaska.

She is predeceased by her husband, Gerald "Pep" Martin, and her son, James Martin.

Per Daphne's wishes, there are no services. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations in Daphne's memory be made to any Humane Society.

Mack Family Funeral Home, 105 Central Street, Gardner is assisting with Daphne's arrangements.