Kimberley Ann Willhite

ATHOL- Kimberley A Willhite, 66, beloved mother, daughter, sister and friend was greeted by God and loves ones that passed before her on Friday, April 1, 2022. Kimberley passed peacefully with family and friends by her side after a lifelong and beyond courageous battle with multiple sclerosis. Born May 1, 1955 to parents Meryl and Marie (Coderre)Willhite, Kimberley grew up in Royalston MA and was a graduate of the Athol High School Class of 1973. She continued on to nursing school before being diagnosed with MS in her late teens. Kim will be remembered by those who knew and loved her for her spunky personality, her love to shop and decorate her home especially for the holidays, how she wore her heart on her sleeve for better or for worse, her contagious mouth wide open “Willhite laugh”, for her strength and tenacity beyond what most could imagine, and for her love for God and her children. Kim was predeceased by her father Meryl in 2012 and former husband David Mertzic in 2018. She is survived by her mother Marie Willhite of Royalston MA, children Ryan Mertzic (Tarsha) of Medford NJ, Benjamin Mertzic (Erin) of Jaffrey NH, and Samantha Dunn (Ron Hamlett) of Orange, siblings Janet Willhite of Athol, Linda Willhite of Middleboro MA, Mark Willhite of Sebec ME, Kelley Rigopoulos (Steve) of Pawleys Island SC, 11 grandchildren, 2 soon to be 3 great grandchildren, as well as the many who assisted in her care throughout her life, most recently Janet, Madison, Wendy and Melva. “Kimmy” was especially close to Maria Oro who devoted 15 years caring for her and Sherrill Noel who dedicated 25 years caring for her, much of which she resided with her in her home and both of whom became family to her. Donations can be made in Kimberley’s honor to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. There will be no calling hours. A private graveside service will be held at Jonas Alliene Cemetery in Royalston. Mack Family Funeral Home 110 New Athol Road, Orange, MA 01364 is assisting with Kimberley's arrangements. Kevin J. Mack, Douglas M. Stone and Walter C. Taylor funeral directors