Edith Louise (Leifheit) Buckfelder

Edith Louise Leifheit Buckfelder   April 23, 1927 - November 16, 2021

Beloved wife, adored mother and loyal friend, Edith was a strong, caring, warm woman who touched many lives.  She was a rock through challenging times and brought boundless joy to her family and friends.

Edith was born in Syracuse and raised in the Midwood section of Brooklyn, New York.  Shortly after the end of WW II, she met a dashing war hero, John, and they married in 1947.  They spent a happy, loving 50 years together raising their family in Rockville Centre, NY.  A devoted wife and mother, Edith was the cornerstone of her family and provided a wonderful childhood for her three sons.  She was actively involved in schools, church, scouts, Little League, and sports.  Lasting memories of summer vacations in the Poconos and large holiday meals with aunts, uncles and numerous cousins were very special.

In 1978 the couple retired to Whispering Pines, NC.  These times were scarred by a tragic accident which left John handicapped and greatly dependent.  Edith made the very most of a demanding situation and provided great care. During these years she made many close friendships and delighted in the birth and lives of nine grandchildren. Spread around the country, Edith kept the family close and treasured each visit.

Some years after John’s passing, Edith married George Merrick.  She began a new chapter living in the Tide Pointe community on Hilton Head Island.  The couple enjoyed travel and many friendships.  The merged family remained the focal point.

Edith loved all kinds of games (and winning)!  Very bright and clear minded, she maintained a wickedly good bridge game till the end. Her family, kids, grandkids, great-grandkids and friends meant everything to her.  She will be deeply missed.

 Edith is survived by her three sons John J. Buckfelder III, Hershey, PA;   William C. Buckfelder (Deborah),  Palmyra, PA;  Robert F. Buckfelder (Kate), Charlotte, NC and their families including nine grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.  Additionally, Edith is survived by her “step” family – The Merricks – and was especially close to Lisa Merrick Munsey (Brian) and her family.

Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.FinkenbinderFamily.com

Arrangements entrusted to Rothermel-Finkenbinder Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., Palmyra.

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