SCARBOROUGH (NEWS CENTER Maine) – Community and political leader Merton Henry has passed away at the age of 92.
Born in Hampden, he graduated from South Portland High School. He was Magna Cum Laude at Bowdoin and served on the Law Review at George Washington University Law School.
As President of Bowdoin’s College Republicans, he met Margaret Chase Smith in 1948. He worked on all of her Senate campaigns and was a close confidant throughout her life.
He chaired all of Susan Collins’ Senate campaigns.
"Mert and his beloved wife Harriet represented what is best about Maine, and we consider ourselves fortunate to have known them," said Senator Collins in a statement. "We are deeply saddened by Mert's passing and will miss him. We offer our heartfelt condolences to his children Doug, Don, and Martha."
Henry's wife Harriet was Maine’s first woman judge.
Mr. Henry served on numerous boards and was a beloved community leader.
Former U.S. Senator Olympia J. Snowe and former Maine Governor John R. McKernan, Jr. also commented on Henry's passing in a statement:
“We were deeply saddened to learn of Mert Henry’s passing. We treasured Mert’s friendship, guidance and counsel for over 40 years. As a lawyer Mert was a steady voice for justice, and numerous charities and non-profit organizations have benefited from his selfless service and devotion.
“And for those of us who are had the privilege of serving in public office, Mert stood as an exemplar for us to emulate with his voice of reason and moderation,; what we like to call the “sensible center."
“Mert Henry’s many years of distinguished service has had an immeasurable impact on our state, and his influence on Maine’s civic and political life will last for generations to come.”
His funeral will be at Trinity Episcopal Church in Portland Saturday, April 14 at 11 A. M.
In 2015, Merton Henry was the subject of a profile on “Bill Green’s Maine.”