Merle Taylor Gray Dresner, 86, of Briarcliffe Manor in Johnston, formerly of Pawtucket, passed away peacefully on January 31st, 2023. She was the wife of the late Stephen Dresner and daughter of the late John and Catherine (Dixon) Taylor.

Merle dedicated her life to educating children. She was a teacher in the North Providence School Department for 58 years. She was very active in the American Federation of Teachers as a Vice President and recording secretary and the North Providence Federation of teachers as secretary.

Merle was a very religious person. She loved her church; she had a devotion to St. Anthony. Also, she enjoyed politics, reading, playing cribbage, jig saw puzzles, knitting and playing slot machines.

She was supported and loved by her friends, Mary Annese, Chrissy, Chelsea, Sheila, Bill, Billy Guy, Eddie Pieroni and John Marginson. Merle was known for her compassion, kindness, and a genuine person to all.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, February 3rd 2023 at St. Raymond Church, 1240 North Main St. Providence, RI at 10am. Burial will follow in St. Francis Cemetery, Pawtucket.
Please omit flowers, donations can be made to St. Vincent DePaul at St. Raymond's Church or Meeting Street School.