NORWICH – Nellie A. Pratt, 85, of Norwich passed away March 18, 2008 at the Gilmour Residential Health Care Facility.
 Nellie was born Oct. 7, 1922 in Fly Creek Valley to Charles and Lilah Ainslie.  Her first husband, Harold Merring, passed away in 1964.  Nellie is survived by her husband of 40 years, Dowell Pratt of Norwich.  She is also survived by her sons and their wives, Thomas and Priscilla Merring of Las Cruces, N.M., Richard and Theresa Merring of Syracuse and James and Linda Merring of Brockport; step-sons William and Debra Pratt of Rotterdam and  Andrew Pratt of Norwich; and step-daughter Janice Van Houten of Gilbertsville. Nellie also leaves behind eight grandchildren, one great grandchild, and many nieces and nephews.  Nellie was predeceased by four brothers; Laverne, Wayne, Alton and Wyllard Ainslie.
Nellie was retired from Bendix/Amphenol of Sidney.  During her free time, she was an active member of the Central New York Ostomy Network, the local AARP chapter and several charities. Nellie was an avid horsewoman, owning and riding horses throughout her life.
There will be no calling hours. A memorial service for Nellie will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday at the First Baptist Church in Norwich. Burial will take place at a later date in the Sidney Center Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Nellie’s memory may be made to either the American Cancer Society, 13 Beech St., Johnson City, NY 13790, or to the charity of your choice.
The arrangements are under the direction of the Wilson Funeral Home.  Condolences may be left to Nellie’s family by visiting the funeral home website at: wilsonfh.com.