GRANVILLE – Florence Elaine (Merrill) Laptew-Kirnan, 94, passed away peacefully on December 14th, 2025. Florence was born in Westfield, Massachusetts, to the late Frank L. Merrill, Jr. and Evelyn B. (Hull) Merrill. She was a longtime resident of Granville MA, a town she dearly loved.
Florence was preceded in death by her first husband, Michael Laptew; her second husband, Robert “Skip” Kirnan; her brothers, William and Richard Merrill; her sisters, Betty Ann Champiney and Janet Bostock; and her beloved daughter, Sandra Huot.
She is survived by her daughters, Patricia Jemiolo and Linda Balch (Doug); her son, Michael; her son-in-law, Roland Huot; her grandchildren, Aaron Henderson, Sarah Pattison (Curt), Alan Hansen, Austin Huot (Jessica), Andrew Jemiolo, and Amanda Huot; and four cherished great-grandchildren.
Florence had a deep love for Granville and its small-town way of life. She often fondly reminisced about her time working in the apple orchards, volunteering with the Ladies Auxiliary, and helping create floats for the town’s annual parade. Her life was marked by a strong faith, devotion to her family, and a resilience that left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Florence will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
A service will be held at the Granville Federated Church on Friday, December 19th, at 1:00 p.m., with lunch to follow in the fellowship hall. Southwick Forastiere Funeral & Cremation is assisting the family.
For more information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.forastiere.com
