In memory of Veronica (Ronnie) Merry (nee Green)

In tribute of a a cherrished wife, Mother, Sister and special friend

Many of us will remember Ronnie as a gregarious, fun, happy and special friend as well as a professionally competent and respected Wren Writer (General).

Born on 24 November 1948 she joined the WRNS in 1967. She served from 1967 – 1975 at: HMS DAUNTLESS; HMS PEMBROKE; HMS CONDOR; ROYAL MARINES EASTNEY (DPROM);HMS DAUNTLESS (for passage to HMS ST ANGELO), HMS ST ANGELO (Malta); HMS DAUNTLESS; HMS VICTORY; HMS PRESIDENT; HMS DRAKE.

She joined the Wrens for initial training at HMS DAUNTLESS followed by Part II training at HMS PEMBROKE Supply and Secretarial School to learn the unique naval procedures she would encounter during her Career. HMS ST ANGELO (Malta) remained very dear to her heart and after leaving the Wrens joined the Lascaris Association. In 1972-73 at HMS PRESIDENT saw her in the prestigious job of the PO Wren Writer (G) in charge of Director WRNS (Daphne Blundell) Registry at the Old Admiralty Building, Whitehall. This role earned her much respect amongst those she managed and reported to.

At that time it was difficult for married Wrens to remain in the service and on marrying the love of her life - Richard (a sailor) she left the WRNS. After leaving the Wrens she enjoyed regular reunions with the Association of Wrens, DAUNTLESS and the Lascaris Association which provided the opportunity to make new friends, as well as catching up with the old.

Ronnie’s sister, Shelia said: “I’m younger than Ronnie and Brenda is our older sister. We both have families of our own and we’re a close family who see each other regularly and always enjoy family occasions and celebrations, as well as having several holidays together. Ronnie was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2008; (just a few weeks after her Mother had died suddenly) she had surgery followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy, treatment which resulted in her losing her hair. When it started to grow back she decided to keep her natural silvery grey which she grew to love and this is how we all now remember her.”

Ronnie passed away on 24 February 2012 with her family at her side, and leaves a husband, Richard and daughter Samantha.

On 2nd March relatives and friends packed into Cumbria Cremation Chapel, Disington, Workington, to celebrate her life.

Ronnie will be sadly missed by her former Wrens colleagues and many friends but never forgotten. Our sincere condolences go to her family especially Richard , Samantha, Sheila and Brenda whose loss is the greatest.