Betty L. Merrill, 78, of San Clemente, passed away at home on Tuesday, Aug. 10, of complications from cancer.  

A native of California, she grew up in South Pasadena, attended UCLA and called San Clemente her home for the last 31 years. She was married to her husband Fred for 28 years before he passed away eight years ago.  

She will be dearly missed by her sister Nancy Ross of Pioneer, Ca.; by her three children, Robert Potts of Culver City, Pauline Yonts of Pembroke, Fla. and Fred Merrill of San Clemente; by her five granddaughters, Anastasia, Shelby, Kylee, Emmy and Lani; and by her two great grandchildren Melissa and Shane.  

Betty was an active member of St. Clement's-By-The-Sea Episcopal Church in San Clemente as well the Women of Passion Prayer & Study Group at Heritage Church in San Clemente.  

Betty had a passion for music and a dedication to her children and grandchildren. She cared for everyone and was grandma to every child. Her loving smile and gentle spirit will be missed by all who were blessed to know her.  

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 22, at St. Clement's Episcopal Church, 202 Ave. Aragon, San Clemente. A park bench overlooking San Clemente pier will be dedicated to Betty's memory; in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Betty Merrill Trust -- San Clemente Parks & Recreation Division -- Wish List.