Merlin N. Leary

1933 – 2025

SOUTH PORTLAND - It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Merlin N. Leary, who passed away on April 22, 2025, at the age of 91, surrounded by his loving family after several months of declining health.  Born on October 9,1933 in Portland Maine he was the son of Josephine Leary (Welch) and Raymond E. Leary.  He was a devoted husband to Aline Leary and a loving father to three sons, Scott, Stephen, and Michael.

He grew up in Portland on Munjoy Hill and attended Portland High School where he graduated in 1951.  After graduation he entered Gorham State Teachers College.  He then joined the U.S. Navy and spent several years on the USS Rogers (DD-876), a Gearing Class destroyer where he served overseas.

For most of his life, he spent summers at a beloved multi-generational cottage at Higgins Beach in Scarborough, which was part of the Welch/Leary family beginning in the early 1900's.  The family continues to own the 'Peep O' Sea' to the present day.

Merlin was known for his love of jazz music and was a lifelong accomplished clarinet player and a former member of the Casco Bay Concert Band.  He spent many hours listening to Benny Goodman, Stan Getz, and others and had an extensive knowledge of big band and jazz music which he thoroughly enjoyed.  He encouraged his sons and grandsons to play music and as a result they were all active in either concert or marching band.

For many years he was employed by the City of Portland as a Building Inspector.

In his spare time, he enjoyed watching the New England Patriots and was a very devoted fan.

He is survived by his spouse Aline, his children, Scott, Stephen, and Michael, and his grandchildren Benjamin Leary and Nathan Leary.  The family would like to express their profound thanks to the Maine Veterans Home staff in Scarborough Maine for their incredible kindness, support and care during this time.  There will be no memorial service or visitation, however, in lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Maine Veterans Home.  290 US Route 1,Scarborough, ME 04074  or https://mainevets.charityproud.org/Donate/Index/20904