Obituary: Merle Norton Jillson III (aka Dooper), 56, of Guilford

Obituary courtesy of Guilford Funeral Home:

Merle Norton Jillson III (aka Dooper) from Mulberry Point, Guilford was born on December 13, 1965, son of the late Merle Norton Jillson, Jr and June Cote Jillson. Without warning, he left this earth at 56 years young on January 21, 2022.

Merle was a life-long resident of Guilford with a proud family history dating back to the founders of the town. His home was truly his castle, and he never took the amazing sunrises or the tides of Long Island sound for granted.

Merle started swinging a hammer at the tender age of 12 with his father. Little did he know then, his future path as a top-notch carpenter had been carved. His craftsmanship can be seen all along the CT shoreline from Greenwich to Groton due to a 20+ year 'education' in high-end building with C & J Builders which then lead to the formation of Jillson Building & Home Repair.

Merle's intense belief in truth, loyalty, and honesty made him a moral man with high expectations which he believed everyone should share. His larger than life persona and kind heart made him a friend to all. His infectious smile captivated everyone he encountered and his beautiful physique always made you feel protected (or intimidated). His gift of gab and wealth of knowledge made him an incredible story-teller whose tales you never wanted to end.

Among his many talents was his love of playing guitar. Self-taught 30+ years ago, he perfected many styles of playing, but his favorite style was finger-picking. His love of music extended well beyond playing guitar; with an eclectic listening playlist, he saw the deeper meaning in a song's lyrics which most of the time mirrored his own views on life.

Merle is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Kathy Carney, his precious daughter, Tristan Colin Cote Jillson, his beloved son, Isaac Samuel Storey Jillson, his two step daughters, Emily and Amanda Hopkins, his 'she's the only one who gets me' sister, June Dudley (Scott) and their sons Tanner and Mason, his adored older half brother, Leighton and his daughter, Brooke Shannon (William), his half sister Elizabeth Felix, his half sister Cinda Deats (Brad), his half brother John (Maryanne), and his adopted brother Joseph.

He is predeceased by his parents, his brother Jack G. Jillson, and his niece, Taylor L. Jillson.

There will be no calling hours. Burial is at the discretion of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in memory of Merle Norton Jillson, III; 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; www.stjude.org