BLADES - Helene Knowles Merritt, age 80, a lifetime resident of Blades, passed away on Tuesday, June 7, 2011, in Delaware Hospice Center, Milford. She was born on Oct. 3, 1930, daughter of the late Garfield and Elva Knowles. She was preceded in death by her brother, William Zeke Knowles; and sisters, Mildred Midge Lankford and Mary Liz Todd. She was a devoted mother, cherished friend, and a truly remarkable woman. A prominent member of the community, Mrs. Merritt was a valued employee of H&R Block in Seaford for 32 years, and previously worked for Wilmington Trust, Diamond State Telephone Company, and Nanticoke Memorial Hospital. She was a loyal supporter of the Seaford Library and was an active member of the Blades Girls. Mrs Merritt is survived by her daughters, Karen Sheets and husband Harold of Bridgeville, Captain Terry Merritt USN and husband John Krachla of Pensacola, Fla., Linda Smith and husband Kevin of Dover, and Rickie Merritt of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. She adored her grandchildren, Suzanne Smith, Tina Krachla, Kevin Sheets, Nancy Kralik, Caitlin Smith, Jennifer Sheets, and Brendan Smith; her eight great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and siblings, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Richard Edward Merritt in 1985. A graveside service will be 11:15 a.m., Saturday, June 11, 2011, in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Seaford. Friends may call at Watson-Yates Funeral Home, Front & King Streets, Seaford, from 10 to 11 a.m., prior to the services. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Delaware Hospice, Inc., 100 Patriots Way Milford, DE 19963.