Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home

02/27/2026

To start planning ahead for a funeral, jot down some favorite things and passions. Think about music and reading ideas, and important people to include in the service. To get started, contact us and we can discuss all our options.

02/26/2026

Did you know that it's National Letter to an Elder Day? Kindness travels through the mail, and with a heartfelt note, you can make someone's day. Try it!

02/25/2026

In creating a meaningful service or celebration of life, take some time to choose readings. A thought out reading may help comfort some during the service and even time after, acknowledge the reality of the death, and to move toward the pain of the loss.

02/25/2026

Merle A. Stratton

Merle A. Stratton, a beloved husband and friend, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. He was born on January 26, 1945, in Waterbury, Connecticut, and grew up in Exeter, Pennsylvania, where he became known for his remarkable spirit and gentle nature.

Merle enjoyed a distinguished career in law enforcement, retiring as a Captain from the Middletown Police Department in Pennsylvania. His journey also included significant contributions to Yale Materials Handling Corporation in Flemington, New Jersey, where he not only lent his skills to the company but also met his future wife, Elizabeth Carkhuff Stratton. After relocating to Myrtle Beach, Merle continued to serve the community through his work as a Security Guard at Dunes Golf and Beach Club.

A proud veteran, Merle served as a Military Policeman in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. His military experience shaped his character, making him an observant individual who was always "in tune" with his surroundings. He was known for being easy to talk to, and enjoyed quiet moments at home, where he found joy in literature, culinary creations, and music. Among his passions were playing golf, indulging in the art of cooking with whatever ingredients were at hand, reading mystery novels, and listening to a wide range of music, with a particular fondness for jazz and the timeless tunes of Frank Sinatra. Merle also cherished dancing the waltz with Elizabeth, which brought immense joy to their nearly 36 years of marriage.

Merle was a devoted fan of the Duke University basketball program and the Philadelphia Eagles, relishing in spirited discussions about his favorite teams. He held cherished memories of traveling to New Orleans, Charleston, and Williamsburg, Virginia. Additionally, his love for playing poker enriched his friendships throughout his Air Force years and during his time in Pennsylvania.

Merle is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth Carkhuff Stratton. He is preceded in death by his father, Merle A. Stratton, Sr., and mother, Adele Marion (Willis) Stratton.

Those who knew Merle will remember him for his warmth, his engaging conversations, and the genuine connections he fostered throughout his life. His legacy of kindness and joy will remain in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Private graveside services at Readington Reformed Church Cemetery will be conducted by Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main St in Flemington NJ. For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.

View Merle A. Stratton's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/24/2026

Margaret "Peggy" Thorne

We are all saddened by the passing of our dear sister, Margaret Thorne, on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at the Hunterdon Medical Center. Known to family and friends as “Peggy”, she was born on March 6, 1949, in New Brunswick, NJ. Peggy loved life and was always willing to help others.

Peggy was previously employed as a housekeeper at the Independence Manor assisted living facility in Flemington, NJ. She loved animals, butterflies, Elvis, and watching old time western movies featuring cowboys and indians.

Peggy loved to dance and had a sense of humor. She always giggled to herself over the funny reels on Facebook that animated creatures both big and small.

Peggy is survived by her four sisters, Carol Thorne Wiseman, of Dunellen, NJ, Nancy Thorne of Edison, NJ, Jeanne Thorne Blodgett and her husband David, of Frenchtown, NJ, and Dottie Mercurio Austra and her husband Kevin, of Delaware City, Delaware. Additionally, Peggy is survived by two brothers, Donald Thorne, of Edison, NJ and Mike Mercurio and his wife Susan, of Glen Gardner, NJ.

Peggy has many cousins, nieces, and nephews who brought joy to her life. She will be missed and loved by all who knew her.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Peggy’s life starting with a visitation on Monday, March 2, 2026, from 2:00-4:00 PM followed by a memorial service, officiated by Rev. Dianna Stone, beginning at 4:00 PM. Both the gathering and service will take place at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822.

Services are under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822.

May the memory of this beautiful and kind soul be a blessing. Rest in peace, Peggy.

For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.

View Margaret "Peggy" Thorne's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/24/2026

Having a visitation to speak with friends and family creates a larger support system. Listening to others who express love and concern will encourage more conversations, sharing of memories, and support. Contact us and we can start planning together.

02/24/2026

Cremation urns are made of wood, ceramic, granite, copper, bronze, brass, glass, porcelain, marble, etc. and are offered in a range of prices. There’s no right or wrong answer for what to do with cremated remains. It’s a personal preference, a matter of the heart. Many feel that displaying cremated remains is healing and reassuring. Regardless, a loved one will forever be remembered and missed dearly.

02/23/2026

Amy S. Banko

Amy S. Banko, a beloved member of the Flemington community, passed away on February 21, 2026, at the age of 63 at the Hunterdon Medical Center. Born on May 17, 1962, in Flemington, NJ, Amy lived her entire life in Hunterdon County, where she made significant contributions both in her professional career and through her many personal connections.

With over 30 years of dedicated service as a Keyboarding Clerk in the Hunterdon County Clerk's office, Amy exhibited an unwavering commitment to her work. After retiring she took on the role as a Cashier for Tractor Supply in Flemington, where her warm demeanor and engaging personality were embraced by all who entered the store.

Amy was a person of many passions and interests. She was known for her random dance moves in public, showcasing her joyful spirit. A true friend to all animals, Amy had a special fondness for her Boxers—Stanley and Champ. Her love for classic rock music filled her home, often accompanied by the smells of her favorite meals cooking in the kitchen. Among her signature dishes were chicken variations such as pineapple or marsala, along with hearty bean soup, and she had a knack for baking delicious treats, particularly brownies.

A graduate of Hunterdon Central Regional High School, Class of 1980, Amy was known for her engaging personality, she had the "gift of gab," making anyone feel at ease in her presence. Her personality shone brightly in her love for reading fiction, her enjoyment of crime drama series, and her dedication to working on jigsaw and crossword puzzles. She found great joy in tending to her flower garden and cherished annual trips to Seaside at the Jersey Shore. A self-professed night owl, Amy also relished her mid-day naps, embracing moments of rest amidst her vibrant life.

Amy leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her mother, Elizabeth (Bohlander) Horn of Reaville, NJ; her daughter, Katie Banko of Rosemont, NJ; her son, Bill Williams of Milford, NJ; and her grandchildren, Robert, Samantha, Aiden, Cayden, and Teagan, whom she loved dearly. She is also survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Kristen and Matthew Schwenderman of Flemington, NJ; brother John Horn and partner Barbara Brungardt of Hillsborough, NJ; brother and sister-in-law, Tucker and Joanne Horn of Kingwood Township, NJ; her Aunt Joyce Huff and her Uncle and Aunt, George and Linda Bohlander of all Virginia as well as cousins, several nieces and a nephew.

Amy was preceded in death by her father, John Horn, in 2012; her grandson, Roland Banko, in 2013; and her partner, William Williams, in 2019 whom she shared her life with for over 30 years.

Visitation will take place on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM, at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, located at 147 Main St, Flemington, NJ 08822. For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Amy's name may be made to Common Sense for Animals, 2420 NJ 57, Stewartsville, NJ 08886 or to the Southern Comfort Animal Rescue, 600 Vance Rd, Tarrytown GA 30470 or by clicking the links below.

https://commonsenseforanimals.org/support-us/ -pledge

https://www.socorescue.com/

In remembering Amy S. Banko, we celebrate a life filled with love, generosity, and a spirit that touched the hearts of many. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who knew her.

View Amy S. Banko's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/23/2026

02/22/2026

Yes, we are here to help plan a cremation, at the time of need or in advance. From the comfort of home, or by meeting us in person, plan ahead and give the greatest gift to loved ones.

02/22/2026

Today, let this virtual rose stand in memory of a loved one.

02/22/2026

Does your family know what to do after your death?

If they don’t, then planning your funeral is likely to be more emotionally and financially draining than you might think. But you can ensure their success by creating an easy-to-understand roadmap to your wishes.

Simply sit down with us, review your options, and write down your wishes. You will make a difficult day so much easier for your grieving family.

Call us at 908-782-4343 to schedule a time to chat.