Betty Merlino, 90, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026, at her home in Key West, Florida, surrounded by her loving family, after complications from Parkinson's disease.

Betty lived a full and beautiful life defined by love, devotion to family, and quiet strength. A longtime resident of Saugus, Massachusetts, she and her husband also cherished their time as snowbirds in Florida, where they spent many happy seasons together.

Betty was the beloved wife and 70-plus-year partner of Carmen Merlino, whom she married on August 26, 1957. The couple was truly inseparable, sharing nearly seven decades of marriage filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Together they traveled the world and worked side by side in the family business for more than 60 years, where Betty was not only Carmen's partner in life but also his best business partner.

She was the cherished daughter of the late Margaret (Lazzarino) and Omer Cantara and the loving sister of Diane Giaramita.

Betty was a devoted mother to Richard P. Merlino and his wife Anna, and Denise A. Merlino-Felock and her husband John J. Felock. She was also a proud grandmother to Christopher Merlino, and she held close in her heart the memory of her beloved grandson Anthony Merlino, who predeceased her.

To those who knew her, Betty was the heart and glue of the family. She was known for her intelligence, kindness, and grace. Always thinking of others before herself, she had a way of making everyone around her feel special and welcomed. She carried herself with class and sophistication but was also warm, funny, and deeply caring.

Betty loved sports—even though she never played herself, she was an enthusiastic fan and proud cheerleader for the New England Patriots and the Boston Bruins. She also had a legendary reputation in the kitchen, especially for making the best meatballs her family and friends had ever tasted.

Above all else, Betty treasured her family. Her home was a place of warmth, love, and togetherness, and her presence brought people together in a way few could.

Betty touched the lives of everyone she met with kindness, generosity, and tremendous love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by her family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers, please consider posting a photo and memory of Betty on this web page.  If you want to contribute, consider a donation in Betty's name for the Parkinson's Association or Lahey Clinic Medical Center for Neurology Department (Parkinson's research, education or support.