Merle R. Newell – 88 – of Locust Dr., Hornell, died Monday evening (April 27, 2026) at the Vincent House in Wayland, following a long illness.
Born in Cuba, NY on April 15, 1938, he was the son of Merle & Ida (Gray) Newell.
Merle grew up in Hornell where he attended Hornell public schools. He had been employed for a time at the former Max Wilkins Auto where he worked painting cars.
A veteran of the United States Army, Merle served his country from 1961 – 1966. While in the Army, he contracted lead poisoning and from that point on was unable to work. Following his honorable discharge from the US Army, Merle returned to the Hornell area and for most of his adult life resided on the Old Big Creek Road.
Merle was a former member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Hornell. In his younger years, Merle enjoyed deer hunting and also became a collector of old Hornell post cards, rare coins, postage stamps and old bottles. He was an avid Buffalo Bills Football fan — especially during the Super Bowl years. Merle also had a love of animals (especially cats) and would actually feed a wild bear on his property.
In addition to his parents, Merle was preceded in death by 3 brothers, James Newell, Charles Newell and Jerry Newell (who died just one day before Merle’s death); his sister, Ida Schmitz.
Surviving are his sister, Betty (Norman) Avery of Hornell; his brother, George Newell of Hornell; his sister-in-law, Marilyn Newell of Rochester; along with nieces & nephews.
At Merle’s request there will be no calling hours. Interment with military honors will be held at the Bath National Cemetery at the convenience of the family.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Merle’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to The Vincent House , PO Box 566, 310 Second Ave., Wayland, NY 14572.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com
