Merle L Cresswell, 85, of Orwigsburg, PA, passed away Monday, July 10th, at Lehigh Valley East Norwegian, Pottsville.

Merle was born in Hopewell, VA on July 14, 1931, a daughter of the late Hattie (Sober) and Lewis Hurlburt.

She was a member of Faith Church, Orwigsburg.

She worked for many years for Baltimore Life Insurance Company. Merle also worked for Boyers IGA, Princess House, and the Office of Senior Services, Pottsville.

She was known for being a Gospel singer with her husband Walter. She was an exceptional Pianist and Organist, as well as a beautiful singer.

Merle graduated from Hopewell High School, Class of 1949, and was in the National Honor Society. She also graduated from United Wesleyan College, where she met her beloved husband.

She was wife of the late Walter Cresswell, who was the Mayor of Orwigsburg prior to his death.

Merle is survived by two sons: Darle, husband of Cheryl Cresswell, of Orwigsburg; and Doug, husband of Robin Cresswell, of Schuylkill Haven, and a daughter, Dawn, wife of Jeff Hull, of Orwigsburg. She is also survived by 7 Grandchildren, Tiffany, wife of Earl Yeager, Jillian, Darle, husband of Carrie Cresswell, Allison, wife of Josh Ball, Jeffrey, Douglas, and Adam, and Nick, her honorary Grandchild, as well as 4 Great Grandchildren, Broden, Hanson, Rowena, and Cameron.

She is preceded in death by a brother Alfred Hurlburt, and a sister Elsie Howell.

A Celebration of Life Through Song will be held at Faith Church, Orwigsburg, at 6 PM on Monday, July 17th, with Pastor Doug Cresswell officiating.

Friends and Family may call for a visitation on Monday at 5 PM at Faith Church, Orwigsburg.

Interment will be private at Schuylkill Memorial Park, Schuylkill Haven, PA.

Donations, in Merle Cresswell's name, may be sent to Faith Church, 1168 Centre Turnpike, Orwigsburg, PA 17961.