Cassandra J. Merriam

Cassandra J. Merriam, a beloved soul taken from us too soon, was born on April 25, 1989, in the city of Syracuse, NY. Her light shone brightly from the moment she entered this world until her untimely departure on May 5, 2025. At the tender age of 36, Cassandra’s infectious smile and warm heart will be profoundly missed, not only by her devoted family but by all those fortunate enough to have known her.

Cassandra embraced life with a playful spirit and a kindness that left an indelible mark on those around her. As a dedicated EMT in Hudspeth County, TX, she selflessly served her community, epitomizing the very essence of compassion that so perfectly mirrored her personality. She was known for giving the shirt off her back, embodying the true definition of love in action.

The memories shared by friends and family paint a portrait of a woman who relished the simple joys of life. From playing and babysitting her adored children, Salena Dolan, Andria Dolan, and her son, Jeffri Dolan Jr., to cherishing every precious moment spent with her cherished nieces and nephews—Kenneth Knowles Jr., Jayden Debo, Jacob Merriam Jr., Ahmir Muwwakkil, Anyia Robinson, Jaylynn Merriam, Marianna Merriam, and Londyn Love—Cassandra thrived in the company of her loved ones. She found solace while crocheting, taking long walks, cooking delicious meals, and sharing delightful baking sessions with her kids, which always seemed to foster laughter and love in abundance.

Cassandra's affinity for frogs and her casual ritual of chewing on the cup of ice while enjoying her unquenchable need for coffee reveal the little quirks that colored her days and endeared her to so many. Whether she was joyfully driving her brother Ricky’s cars or having manicures with her mother, each moment was infused with the warmth she naturally exuded.

Her familial bonds were paramount, with strong connections to her parents, Edgar, Jr. and Tina Merriam, and Debbie Townsend, and her siblings—Marah Merriam, Jacob Merriam, Ricky Merriam, LaTonya Muwwakkil, Hakeem Muwwakkil, Mary Jo (Danny) Gelo, Chris Crews and Felix Ortiz; aunt, Tammy (Russell) Miller, along with the father of her children, Jeffri Dolan Sr. The tapestry of her life was richly woven with support from numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who surrounded her with unwavering love.

Cassandra’s pride as a loving mother stands as her greatest achievement, and her legacy will continue through her children and the countless lives she touched. Though she leaves behind profound sorrow in the hearts of her family, Cassandra's spirit will forever resonate in the cherished stories and memories they shared.

Cassandra is preceded in death by her grandfathers, Edgar Merriam Sr. and Daniel Graves; grandmothers, Jeanette Townsend and Pauline Merriam; uncle, Jermaine Davis; aunt, Rebecca Miller; and sister-in-law, Cheri Debo. Each of these losses resonates deeply, yet they also serve as a reminder of the love that bonds us beyond life.

As we gather to honor her memory, let us celebrate Cassandra’s vibrant spirit during the visitation and celebration of life scheduled for May 23, 2025, at New Comer Cremations & Funerals in Syracuse, NY. The world may have dimmed with her passing, but Cassandra J. Merriam’s light and legacy will shine on, forever etched in the hearts of those who loved her.