Lucrezia "Dolly" A. Mercieri

Lucrezia “Dolly” (Rossi) Mercieri, 93, beloved wife of Joseph Mercieri, Sr., passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, June 19, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on January 7, 1932, in Bristol, Connecticut, Dolly was the daughter of the late Gaetano and Clara (Masi) Rossi. She was affectionately known as “Dolly,” a nickname lovingly given by her father and one she carried with grace throughout her life.

A lifelong resident of Bristol, Dolly dedicated 25 years to her role as a customer service representative at Bristol Savings Bank. Even after retirement, former customers would still recognize her and stop to thank her for her warmth and exceptional service. She had a natural ability to light up every room she entered, always offering words of encouragement and a contagious “can-do” spirit.

In her youth, Dolly was a self-proclaimed tomboy. She spent countless afternoons playing baseball with the neighborhood boys, often taking the mound as pitcher. Though small in stature, she was mighty in spirit, so much so that her family playfully called her “Sarge.”

Dolly shared a beautiful life with her husband Joe, her childhood friend turned lifelong partner. Married on September 17, 1955, their love story spanned more than eight decades, rooted in deep friendship, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Together, they traveled often, particularly throughout the Caribbean, and created a home full of love and memories.

She was happiest when surrounded by family and friends, especially when she was baking something sweet or spending time with her grandkids and great grandkids. Dolly was a talented knitter and crocheter, known for her cozy blankets, slippers, and hats that warmed the lives of those she loved.

A loyal fan of UConn Women’s Basketball, Dolly rarely missed a game. If the Huskies were playing, good luck reaching her by phone, she was all in.

Dolly’s 93 years were filled with love, joy, and purpose. She built lifelong friendships, raised a beautiful family, and lived with an extraordinary heart.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 69 years, Joe; her sons, Joe Mercieri, Jr. and his wife Janice; David Mercieri and his wife Lorraine; her brother Dominic Rossi and his wife Ada; six cherished grandchildren; eight adored great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, her sisters Sally Freimuth, and husband Emil; Beverly Dube, and husband Henry; Mary Seckington and her husband Emmit; and her brother Vito Rossi.

Dolly will be remembered for her humor, her kindness, her fierce loyalty, and the way she made everyone feel like family. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, August 21 at 11:00 AM at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, 110 Daniel Webster Highway, Boscawen, NH 03303. A reception will follow the burial beginning at noon at the Common Man in Concord, NH.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to: North Country Home Health & Hospice Agency at 536 Cottage Street, Littleton, NH 03561.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, caregivers, volunteers, and staff of North Country Home Health & Hospice for their compassion and support during this most heartbreaking of times.