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Wilton Mercer Obituary
Born in Lumberton, N.C., he was a Peninsula resident for the past 58 years. He was a member of the Plumbers & Pipefitters Local #540 in Newport News, the Warwick Moose Lodge #1711, and the Hampton Roads Moose Legion #199.
Survivors include his beloved wife, Jean Mercer of Newport News; his father, R. T. Mercer of Newport News; four daughters, Darlene Mercer-Siegel of Ellicott City, Md., Michele Mercer of Newport News, Nikki Mercer Reinhart of Williamsburg, and Brigitte Mercer of New Orleans, La.; two stepdaughters, Suzette Polyzos of Hampton, and Kirstie Lugo of Chesapeake; stepson, Steve Rowe of Isle of White; three brothers, Charles Mercer of Alexandria, Johnny Mercer of Poquoson, and Larry Mercer of Portsmouth; one sister, Wanda Lemke of Marietta, Ga.; his uncle, Ralph Milligan of Rockingham, N.C.; 14 grandchildren; one great- grandchild; his sons-in-law; and a host of nieces, nephews, and special friends.
A memorial service will be conducted by the Rev. Mark Hambrick at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, 2009, at the Weymouth Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive friends at the Warwick Moose Lodge #1711 following the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 11835 Canon Blvd., Suite A-102, Newport News, VA 23606. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Wilton Mercer
Larry Johnson
December 13, 2009
Let me began by expressing my most sincere sympathy to all of Wilton’s family and friends on his passing.
Wilton (as he was called at that time) and I grew up together in Copeland Park during the 50s. We were the same age, best of friends, and avid bicycle riders. As most childhood rivalries, we were always competing to see who could out do or out race the other. Rarely did a week go by that we didn’t tear down the rear ends of our bicycles (his Huffy and mine a Schwinn), clean, and re-lubricate them in hopes we could make them go a little faster. There was seldom a day that we didn’t ride over and through most of the streets and ditches of Copeland Park, loving every minute of it. I suppose you could consider us the Evil Knievel of our time. As daredevils, we would do almost anything to out do the other. I can honestly say some of my best memories were the times Wilton and I spent together riding our bikes and discussing whatever kids of our age did at that time.
Now, with my granddaughters, showing off on their bicycles (which is very dangerous at my age, but I can still do it… Ha!), I often relate to them the things I experienced during my childhood and of course one was my skill (like to think so) as a daring bicycle rider. More times than not, I would think of Wilton and the wild things we did together. We certainly did do some crazy things back then (some that will remain just with me now that he’s gone) which I will always have fond memories of.
Wilton and I were the same age and although he was the oldest of the siblings in his family, I also have fond memories of his brothers, Charles, Johnnie, Larry and his pretty little sister, Wanda. I can still remember her pretty blonde hair. To the credit of their mother and father and their Christian upbringing, they were all good children whom I’m sure they were very proud of.
Throughout the years, I have kept in touch with Johnnie (due to our mutual occupation as police officers) and when running into one another, I would always inquire about his family, especially Wilton. In retrospect, I will always be saddened that I didn’t take the initiative to look him up and reestablish our friendship as I’m sure we would have many good memories and laughs.
In conclusion, I would hope these personal memories I’ve shared of Wilton mean as much to his family and friends as sharing them has meant to me.
Wilton, old buddy, I’m looking forward to riding with you in the hereafter. God bless you and your family!
Larry A. Johnson, Sr., Hayes, VA
Scott Bellows
November 23, 2009
I am sorry to hear of Will's passing. I see by all the entries, he touch many lives.
November 23, 2009
Will's Grandkids,
Oh how proud Wilton was of his precious grandchildren. Billy, so many girls and then you came along and you were more like a son. PawPaw was very proud of you. Hillary, what a beautiful young lady you have become. PawPaw thought you were so special. Mitchell, Tyler, Cole, Harry, Dylan, you were all pawpaw's boys, special and unique in your own ways. He would of loved building cars with you boys. Madison, you are surely one of Will Mercer's girls, PawPaw's little "angel". Skyla, you were his first great-grandchild,he was blessed when you came into his life. Hold on to those precious memories you have. PawPaw loved each of you in his own special way. We know his message to each of you would be:Take care kids and make me proud, be all that you can be and know that I loved you each and tried to show you in my own special ways.
We can only say that grandparents receive a special love, joy and bond when grandchildren come along. Something parents do not understand. In his own special way Wilton tried to show each of you his love in the best ways he knew how. PawPaw loved you.
November 23, 2009
Darlene, Michelle, Nikki,
Will's Girls! We know how proud your dad was of you and how much he loved you, and how much you also loved him. He was a one of a kind. He was a hard worker & a giving individual. We will remember the sweet presence of each of you curled up with your daddy that last evening,to be with him no matter what. As we looked over at each of you, your love for one another was evident. He fouught the good fight and now suffers no more. He lives within our hearts and though he is gone his memories will forever be. We loved him so much and will miss him. He has only changed his address, for heaven is his address now. Your dad was blessed to have each of you. Continue on making him proud of you and take care of his precous grandkids that he loved so much. We are always here for you. Uncle Johnny and Aunt Susan
Scott Gray
November 23, 2009
Darlene,
You have my heart-felt sympathy for the loss of your father.
May you find peace with time.
Thinking of you,
Scott
" nae nae" curtis
November 23, 2009
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
squeakie &virginia bell
November 21, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
November 21, 2009
Mr. Mercer,
I never had the honor of meeting you. However, I had the pleasure of learning about you through one of your daughters. When she spoke of you I could see her love for you in the twinkle of her eyes and the following warm smile. I felt the immeasurable love between the two of you. You can rest in peace knowing that you brought into this world a special woman who undoubtedly is a reflection of the man you must be. May the peace of the Lord be with you.
November 21, 2009
I am so sorry to hear about your loss.
November 21, 2009
Darlene,Michelle, Nikki, and Bridget. We are so sorry for the loss of your Dad. He was a good friend and neighbor. I know you all love him very much, and he will truly be missed by all those that knew him. Please come by sometime and see us. We Love You, Houston , Rachel, Brad , and Robin Cain. NN,VA.
The Lugo family
November 21, 2009
With caring sympathy for you and your family.
Pamela Young
November 21, 2009
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your father Darlene,Michele,Nikki and Bridgette. I hope you find comfort at this time in reflecting on all the great memories you have of your father . I can remember many of the stories Michele used to tell me about growing up and how special her Dad was to her. I know you have a difficult road ahead adjusting to life without him, may you find peace in knowing you will see him again and that he is standing in the light of the Lord now.
I love all of you girls! My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Catlett Cameron & John
November 20, 2009
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
MARGARET LEE
November 20, 2009
Johnny and Larry,
I am so saddened to hear of the loss of your brother. Phil and I send our deepest sympathy. We are praying for you all.
Love, Margaret Kailos-Lee
Mary Munoz (Condron)
November 20, 2009
Johnny, Wanda, Larry and Charles,
I'm very sorry to hear about your brother. I know it is hard to say good-bye... but nice to know that our memories helps us through the years. My condolences to you and all his love ones.
John Parker
November 20, 2009
Darlene, Michele, Nikki and Brigitte,
I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep you and your family in my prayers
Sandye Jordan Murray
November 20, 2009
Johnny and Larry,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I did not know Wilton but I DO know the feeling of lose with the death of a sibling. The hurt does not go away for a long time. You most assuredly will be in my prayers.
Debbie Silver (formerly)
November 20, 2009
Dear Darlene, I am so sorry to hear of your father's passing. I have many fond memories of him growing up on White Lane. I think he was kind of a dad to all of us kids there. He was truly a good, kind and loving person. I miss those days. Know that I'm praying for you and your family during this difficult time.
Frank and Glenna Bonham
November 20, 2009
Goodbye to a real, true friend. I knew Wilton since 1965 and he was always a really good friend.
justin & katie hinton
November 20, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Freddie Wilson
November 20, 2009
Johnny and Larry, sorry for your loss. My family's thoughts and prayers are with you.
Peggy Pigg
November 19, 2009
Darlene and Family
My heart and prayers go out to all of you during this really difficult time. There are no words to express the pain of losing a beloved father. I know how much you loved him and I know he was so proud of all of you. I thank God that you have many beautiful memories that will comfort you.
Much love to you all,
Peggy Pigg
Mary Hines
November 19, 2009
To the Mercer family, Will was a good friend and he will be missed by all who knew him. Randy will miss him so much at the moose lodge! Love you all,, Hines Family.
Randy & Mary Hines
November 19, 2009
To the Mercer family, Will was a good friend and he will be missed by all who knew him. Randy will miss him so much at the moose lodge! Love you all,, Hines Family.
Randy & Mary Hines
November 19, 2009
To the Mercer family, Will was a good friend and he will be missed by all who knew him. Randy will miss him so much at the moose lodge! Love you all,, Hines Family.
Hillary Hines
November 19, 2009
Pawpaw,
i love you and i miss you so much. All of my memories of you are wonderful ones.
Bill Price
November 19, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Please accept our deepest sympathy.
Bill Price Jr & Family
Rob Dudley
November 19, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
I know all too well, and recently, the pain of losing a father who you love so much - it's devastating. But knowing that he's in God's hands now is comfort in itself.
Remember - cherish all of the good memories and laugh together about the funny ones as he may be gone but will remain in your heart always!
God bless you all.
Shirley Coleman Campbell
November 19, 2009
Dear Charles, Johnny, Larry and Wanda Kay,
I am so sorry to learn of Wilton's death. I fondly remember the good old "Copeland Park" years and the great Mercer family. Please know that you are in my thoughts.
Peace, Prayers and Blessings,
Michele Mercer
November 19, 2009
I love you more than all the trees daddy!
Love Shelly
November 19, 2009
Daddy,
I love you more than words can say. I miss you terribly, and it hurts so bad to know that you are gone. I pray that we are together again one day in a more peaceful place.
I love you,
Darlene
John Mercer Jr
November 19, 2009
Dear Jeanie & Girls,
We are thinking of you during this difficult time. With All Our Love, John, Lisa & Matthew Mercer
Billy Price
November 19, 2009
Pawpaw,
You truly have always been my hero, the one i wanted to be like, the coolest, the funniest, the best pawpaw in the world hands down no doubt. I wouldnt change a thing. You gave me so many smiles and happy memories. I never thought you would actually go. I miss you more than anything in the world. I would do anything to have you back. You always made my world better. I hope i can fill your shoes and be atleast half the man you are. I love you pawpaw. I love you. I cant wait to see you again. Ill be the next Will Mercer. You can count on me pawpaw. Ill make you proud just keep watching. I love you pawpaw.
Jesse Hewitt II
November 19, 2009
Will is going to be really missed by friends and family. Will and max were dads best friends and I spent alot of my childhood playing guitar and singing in the garage. Dad and I will sure miss you. little jes
goldteam collision
November 19, 2009
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
robin breedlove
November 19, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Nikki Mercer- Reinhart
November 19, 2009
Dear Daddy-
I will miss you so much. I love you!!
Stephen McLeod
November 19, 2009
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Stephen McLeod
November 19, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family in this time of grief.
Adam & Melis Gray
November 19, 2009
May time heal your wounds, but never let the memories fade.
LEE PREVETTE
November 19, 2009
i will miss the good times you squeaky and myself had.we will never forget you .good by old friend.
angie hysmith-coxton
November 19, 2009
dear jeanie,
i am so sorry that will has passed.he was a wonderful person and i will miss him dearly.please take comfort in knowing that he is in heaven now and that you have a gaurdian angel.
angie coxton
November 19, 2009
dear michele,darlene,nikki and
bridgette
i want you girls to know that your daddy was an amazing man.any man that can raise four girls is truly amazing.he was my daddys best friend and always treated me like a daughter.he loved everybody and would help anybody that needed help.i can remeber him and your mom living in the house that wayne lives in now.and then moving across the street beside of mom and dad.he was building on the room addition when one of the little girls was born might have been nikki.but he was so happy he screamed from the top of the house to us im having another girl...didnt take long bridgette was born.four little girls who would imagine.he filled up the neighborhood with girl and we had the best childhood because of you girls.so thank you will mercer for my childhood memories and for letting me be a part of your wonderful family.go rest high on that mountain your girls will be fine you did an awesome job.
ann hysmith
November 19, 2009
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
charles andy anderson
November 19, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
kelsey coxton
November 19, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
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