Robert "Bob" Elliott

Robert J. Elliott: February 25, 1933- September 9, 2025

Robert “Bob” Elliott a 60-year resident of Merrimac, MA beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, Uncle and friend, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on September 9, 2025 at the age of 92.

Born on February 25, 1933 in New London, CT to Ira and Concetta (Payne) Elliott. Bob grew up in Gloucester, MA. He graduated in 1952 from Gloucester High where he was a proud member of the ROTC. He was also a member of Trinity Congregational Church in Gloucester where he met the love of his life, BettyLou Smith at a youth group gathering. They were married in March of 1955 and went on to share more than 70 years of marriage. It was a true partnership filled with love, laughter, and devotion.

After graduating high school Bob went on to attend Salem State Teacher’s College before pausing his studies to serve his country. He proudly enlisted in the US Army, where he was stationed in Germany, Italy, and Switzerland. One of his fondest memories was serving as Postmaster in Germany, ensuring soldiers near and far received letters and packages from loved ones back home. Upon returning stateside, Bob completed his Bachelor’s degree in Education and Business. He taught English and History at both Long Island, NY HS and Rockport High School before accepting a Teaching Job at Haverhill High School In 1960. He taught in the Business Department for 35 years and retired from Haverhill in 1995. He especially loved the start of each new school year, when students returned eager to learn.

Bob was a lifelong sports enthusiast who cheered passionately for the Celtics, Patriots and Red Sox (and fondly recalled the days when they were still the Boston Braves). He especially loved basketball and the Celtics and had season tickets during the Larry Bird Era. He also loved college Basketball and looked forward to March Madness every year.

Bob leaves behind his devoted wife, BettyLou Elliott, his daughter, Deborah (Gary) Santarpio, his cherished grandchildren, Karri Davis, Ally (Stephen) Mearls, and Kristi (Robert) Webber; one great-grandson, Cameron Mearls. He is survived by his brother, Donald (Arline) Elliott, his sister-in-law, Anne Elliott and his goddaughter/niece, Julie (Rick) Richiuts. He leaves behind two cherished Friends, Ellen & Jack Widman. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and he will also be sorely missed by his four- legged companions, Teddy & Jack. Along with his parents, he is predeceased by his son, Stephen and his twin brother, Richard.

Bob will be remembered for his humor, his generosity, his devotion to his students, and most of all his love for his family.

Services will be held Saturday, September 20th at 11 a.m. at Pilgrim Congregational Church, 27 Church Street, Merrimac, MA. Burial will follow at Locust Grove Cemetery. Arrangements were made by Paul C. Rogers Funeral Home, 36 Main Street, Merrimac, MA. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Pilgrim Congregational Church, Merrimac, MA 01860 or Beacon Hospice Care, 290 Merrimack St., STE. 242, Lawrence, MA 01843.