Obituary of Lorraine Merritt

MERRITT - Lorraine of Holliswood, NY was born to Elsie and Hanford Merritt on November 2, 1925. Survived by brother Hanford, three nephews and many cousins. Child soloist at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church (Woodhaven, NY). Studied voice under Oscar Seagle. Graduated from The High School of Music & Art (NYC). Attended American Academy of Dramatic Arts (NYC). Volunteered at “Stage Door Canteen”. Theater apprentice/performer at The Cape Playhouse (Dennis, MA). Worked at “Theatre By The Sea” (Matunuck, RI) in production, performing and assistant to the visiting stars. Employed at the Martin Goodman Agency (NYC) that represented many well-known stars of the time. Attended Hofstra University where she earned her bachelor’s degree in music education, with honors and served as the Editor for “The Evening Forum” newspaper. Studied the organ under Clare Cocci. Attended the Fred Waring Choral Workshop. Featured as “A New Face” at singing engagements at The Dorchester’s Royal Theatre Club (London, UK). Chairman of the music department at The Henley School (Holliswood, NY). Organist and Choir Master at several churches; Christ Lutheran Church (Flushing, NY), Holy Trinity Lutheran Church (Hollis, NY), Immanuel Lutheran Church (Bayside, NY), St. John’s Episcopal Church (Flushing, NY), and First Congregational Church (Kew Gardens, NY). Dean of the Queens chapter of the American Guild of Organists. Produced and directed a 500-voice chorus of combined choirs for two concerts at the 1964 World’s Fair. Music and chorus teacher at the Bayville and Locust Valley school districts and remained there until her retirement. Funeral service Tuesday, July 5 at 10:00 am at Fairchild Sons Funeral Home, 1570 Northern Boulevard, Manhasset, NY. Interment to follow at The Evergreen Cemetery, 1629 Bushwick Avenue, Brooklyn, NY.