Obituary of Francis E. Merrigan

Francis Edward Merrigan, a longtime Basking Ridge resident, passed away peacefully in his sleep after a short illness on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at Morristown Medical Center. He was 59.

Francis is survived by his wife of 32 years, Mandy Merrigan (née O’Lone), two daughters, Jess Merrigan & Jule Merrigan; six brothers, Patrick Merrigan, Johnny Merrigan and his wife Lily, Tommy Merrigan and his wife Mary, Jimmy Merrigan and his wife Maire, Gerry Merrigan and his wife Lily and Richie Merrigan and his wife Hilde; two sisters Mary O’Leary and her husband Brendan & Ann O’Hanlon and her husband Jimmy; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members & dear friends.

Francis was predeceased by his parents, Patrick “Paddy” Merrigan & Ellen “Eileen” Merrigan (née Sheehan); his twin brother, William “Willie” Merrigan; and his sister-in-law, Annamai Merrigan.

Francis and his twin brother Willie were born on June 17, 1964 in New Ross in County Wexford, Ireland, the youngest of the ten Merrigan children.

In his teenage years Francis was a member of St. Michaels Boxing Club in New Ross, Ireland. He was a very talented and competitive boxer who won many medals and trophies.

Francis graduated from Vocational College New Ross and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Waterford Technical College, where he studied architecture.

Francis and Mandy settled in the United States in 1990 and were married in 1992. They settled in Basking Ridge and welcomed their two daughters, Jess and Jule into the family. Francis’ family meant everything to him, especially his daughters. He was a wonderful father and worked tirelessly to provide a good life for his family.

Francis had a lifelong appreciation of architecture and construction of all forms. He had a keen eye for detail and learned every facet of construction from the ground up over the years. After being formally educated in architecture, he transitioned into home construction and renovations. He established Wexford Custom Homes and Renovations, Inc. of Madison in 2004 together with his wife Mandy and his
business partner Jeff Glaser. Through years of hard work and dedication to improving the quality of architecture and fine craftsmanship, Francis and Jeff earned Wexford a superb reputation in Madison and the surrounding communities.

Francis had a heart of gold and cared deeply about others. He was a loyal friend, enjoyed socializing, and loved sports, especially golf.

Francis was a member of the Madison Elks and was devoted to several charitable causes, especially the Elk’s Camp Moore a charitable organization operated by the Elks Association. He was an advocate for those less fortunate.

Although Francis will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, we all take solace in knowing he is at peace.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend a visitation for Francis held on Wednesday, March 13, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Madison Memorial Home, 159 Main Street, Madison, New Jersey. A celebration of life ceremony to commemorate Francis' life will be held at 6:00 p.m. during the visitation.  

click here to view/download the Francis Merrigan service.

Interment will be held in Ireland in the Merrigan family plot.

In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions may be made in Francis’ memory to Elk’s Camp Moore, a summer camp for children with special needs, Susquehanna Drive, 5 Susquehanna Avenue, Haskell, NJ 07420.