Devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend to many.
Meredith Arlene Bliss, 78, died Thursday, October 8, at her Willits home with her loving husband of 61 years, Paul Clinton Bliss by her side.
Meredith was born June 27, 1937, in Oakland, California, to Clarence and Alicia (Scott) Bottome.
She graduated from Oakland High School, her main focus was on music and History. Meredith met the love of her life, Paul C. Bliss and they married February 6, 1954. Meredith had a love of family and had six children.
In 1976, Meredith and her family moved to Laytonville. Meredith taught music at the elementary level, she also taught private lessons for many years. Her love for music and theatre was evident in her involvement with the Laytonville Theatre Group. Meredith also was involved with the Laytonville Rodeo Association, and she was the 1993 Laytonville Rodeo Association Grand Marshal.
Meredith was a loved community volunteer. Upon moving to Willits, she became an avid supporter of the American Legion Auxiliary; as evident of her American legion lifetime service awards. She also belonged to the Daughters of the American Revolution. Meredith had a love for our country like no other, you could find her representing the legion at most community functions. Meredith was a true believer in supporting our present military service men and women, and preserving our military heritage.
A devoted Christian, Meredith had a true belief in God and her faith. Meredith attended St. John Lutheran Church. She was a long time member of the Lagunita Rebekah Lodge as well.
Meredith is survived by her husband; Paul C. Bliss, children; John and Cecile (Bliss) Elfman, Katrina (Bliss) Peers, Doug and Alicia (Bliss) Berry, Meredith (Bliss) Boone-Denhem. Paul (Jr.) and Sabrina Bliss, nieces; Doreen Ligertwood and Barbara Jean Bottome-Hazelhorst, sixteen grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and numerous grandnieces and grandnephews. She is also survived by a dear friend Dori Grauer. Everyone will miss Meredith's gentle smile, loving hugs and great laughter.
Meredith was preceded in death by her parents; Clarence and Alicia Bottome, her son; Darrell P. Bliss, her sisters; Manon and Clariece Bottome, her brother; Chet Bottome, her nephew Walter Bottome and niece Claryce Bottome.
A memorial service and Potluck has been set up for Sunday, October 18, at 4 p.m., at the Veterans Memorial Building, 189 N. Main Street in Willits. Donations may be made in Meredith's name to American Legion Auxiliary Unit 174, or St. John Lutheran Church.