Merrily Francis (Dunham) McLaughlin (72) of Woodstock, Georgia, passed away on November 27, 2023. Merrily represented the finest attributes of a true Southern woman. She grew up in Tennessee in a loving family with three siblings who were always busy working on projects with their parents or traveling to fun places together. She graduated with a degree in chemistry from the University of Tennessee and worked as a medical technologist for many years before pursuing her true passions which included gardening and developing specialty sauces and gourmet foods under her company name, Merrilily Gardens. For more than 20 years, she also worked tirelessly behind the scenes, supporting charitable organizations in her community.

Her scientific mind was balanced by a wonderfully creative heart. She could size up people and situations instantly. She was tirelessly kind and generous to those around her. She never wanted to take the spotlight but somehow was always thrust into leadership roles because her word was her bond. If Merrily committed to something, you could count on her getting the job done and that it would be done right. She was a dedicated friend and an honorable lady who will be missed terribly by all.

She is survived by her husband, John McLaughlin, her sister, Sara Dunham, her brothers Rick and Mike Dunham, her daughter, Melissa, son-in-law Joe, and grandson Walker.

The family will receive friends at 10 AM on Saturday, December 9 with services to follow at 11 AM at Northside Chapel, 12050 Crabapple Road, Roswell, Georgia. 30075.

In memory of Merrily Francis McLaughlin, the family asks that gifts be directed to the MERRILY MCLAUGHLIN AGRICULTURAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND with Cherokee County Farm Bureau. Checks should be made payable to "Georgia Foundation for Agriculture" and mailed to: Georgia Foundation for Agriculture, 1620 Bass Rd Macon, GA 31210. Please note MERRILY MCLAUGHLIN AGRICULTURAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND on the check memo line. You may also donate online by visiting: www.gfb.ag/cherokeescholarship .