Merilyn (Staples) Senter, 83, of Plaistow, NH, and formerly of Haverhill, died peacefully at Maplewood Center Amesbury, MA, on Saturday, January 26th.

She was born in Haverhill daughter of Paul C. and Mary E. (Herrin) Staples.

Merilyn was educated in the Haverhill school system and graduated from Haverhill High School. Upon graduating, she attended business school.

Mrs. Senter was employed as a news reporter for over 15 years at the former Plaistow News. While there she covered current events, political events and human interest stories. She, along with photographer Larry Kennedy, interviewed Barney and Betty Hill, of Exeter, NH, after the Hill's were abducted in a spaceship.

She took up residence in Plaistow with her husband Donald in the late 1960's. Merilyn was passionate about family and community. She served two terms as a representative at the State House in Concord, followed by two terms as a Plaistow Selectman. Mrs. Senter was an ardent champion for the betterment of her beloved home town, as well as being a supporter of those with disabilities. She was a lover of the great outdoors and derived pleasure from her garden and the feathered friends that visited her many bird feeders.

Merilyn was predeceased by her granddaughter Cheryl Hussey.

Her survivors include her loving husband of 59 years, Donald Senter of Plaistow, her son Brian Senter and his wife Lynn of Haverhill, daughter Karen Blodgett of Claremont NH, sister Janet Schmidt of Colorado Springs, CO, grandsons, Michael Hussey, Jared and Jeremy Senter as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the visitation on Saturday, February 9th from 10:00 – 12:00 at the Brookside Funeral Home, 116 Main St. Plaistow. A funeral service will follow at 12:15 at the funeral home. Burial will be at Walnut Cemetery, Haverhill. Contributions in her memory may be made to donors choice.

For directions or to send a message of condolence, please visit our website at www.brooksidechapelfh.com .