Obituary of Joyce Ann Cookson

Joyce Ann Cookson December 5, 1939 - March 10, 2021 Joyce Ann Cookson, 81, of Burnham, went to her eternal resting place on March 10, 2021. She passed unexpectedly but peacefully with her loving daughter, Beth, by her side. Joyce was born to Leonard (Red) Merrithew and Marie Quint Merrithew on December 5, 1939 in Hartland, Maine. She was welcomed home by her big sister, Judy. She married the love of her life, Sherman, on May 8, 1959 at the Baptist Parsonage in Pittsfield. Joyce graduated with the class of 1957 from MCI. Joyce spent most of her time caring for others, which included being a CNA at Sebasticook Valley Hospital for over 20 years. She will be remembered for her exceptional care she gave to each and every person. In her spare time, she enjoyed crocheting, sudoku puzzles, and online poker. Joyce is survived by her three children – Kevin Cookson of Burnham, Mary (Beth) Bickford and husband Shawn of Burnham, and Melissa Collamore and special friend Adam Gerry of Burnham. She also left behind six beautiful grandchildren whom she adored – Hannah Turgeon and husband John of Corinna, Hilary Bickford of Pittsfield, Hattie Bickford and fiancé Howard Hatchell of Burnham, Molly Tracy and husband Cody of Canaan, Matthew Cookson of Hampden, and Christopher Collamore of Newport. Joyce was blessed with 5 great-grandchildren – Cayden, JT, Jace, Zade, and one special great-granddaughter, Penelope Jo. Her siblings as follows – Judith (Judy) Paine and late husband Travis, Robert (Bob) Merrithew, Margaret (Peggy) Cookson and late husband Melvin, Kathy Lovely and late husband Richard, Richard (Rick) Merrithew, and Scott Merrithew and wife Tammy. Joyce left behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Joyce was predeceased by her husband Sherman Cookson on December 17, 2019, her parents Leonard (Red) and Marie Merrithew, two special nephews, Scott and Benjamin Lovely and her beloved dog, Riley. There will be a celebration of life in warmer weather for both Joyce and Sherman at Joyce’s request.