Margaret Ann Merlo

Margaret Ann Merlo, 86, of Palmer Twp., PA passed away on Thursday, June 18, 2026 in her home surrounded by family. Born on July 27, 1939 in Easton, PA, she was the daughter of the late Rocco and Fannie (DeBias) Cocco.

She graduated from Easton High School in 1956. Following graduation, she earned a degree in cosmetology and worked as a beautician for 10 years. Later, she was employed as a machine operator for James River Paper Products until her retirement in 2002. Margaret was a member of St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church. She was a dedicated mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She had a great love for reading and a passion for cooking. It made her happy to share her home cooked meals with friends and family. Above all, her most treasured time was spent with her family.

Margaret is survived by her daughters, Missy Bilotti and her husband, Sam of Center Valley, Carol Abel and her husband, George of Palmer Twp.; sister, Danna Hetzel of Williams Twp.; step-brother, Lloyd Cauley of Illinois; grandchildren, Nicole Ober, Carissa Abel, Rebecca Arner her husband, Craig, Dennis Corrado and his fiancée, Hannah Cavallaro, Chad Abel and his fiancée, Krista Capra; great-grandchildren, Owen Arner, Juliana Ober, Jayden Ober.

In addition to her parents, Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, Sebastian “Sonny” Merlo, brother, James Cocco and step-sister Dolores Cauley

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026 from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM at Morello Funeral Home, Inc., 3720 Nicholas Street, Easton, PA (Palmer Twp.) followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at St. Anthony’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Margaret’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959. Online condolences may be offered at www.morellofuneralhome.com