Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Wesley Mercer Obituary
Wesley Mercer, the vice president of corporate security for Morgan Stanley, had a way of making people feel safe. A quiet man, he often got lost in a noisy crowd. But in times of crisis, he was always the one who took charge. He was helping to evacuate employees when the towers collapsed. "It put a hole in my stomach," said his life partner, Bill Randolph. "But I knew that's what he would have done."
At 70, Mr. Mercer had already weathered many of life's crises. A war veteran turned security officer, he was divorced and helped to raise two daughters. In later years, he lived with Mr. Randolph in the Hamilton Heights neighborhood in Harlem. Mr. Mercer dressed to inspire confidence, and even wore a sports jacket to walk the dog or shop at Pathmark. He did not own sneakers or jeans.
"He always thought the way he carried himself was important," Mr. Randolph said.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Christina
September 11, 2024
I learned that he is a very hardworking person and he also cares for others and puts people before himself. He helped evacuate many people.
T.A.C.
October 6, 2023
I remember Mr. Mercer as a fellow church member of Church of the Intercession in Manhattan, NYC. On 9/11, I was attending graduate school and working in Atlanta, GA. I walked into work and everyone was in the conference room watching the events unfold on the television. It wasn't until later that night I was able to reach my mother. I believe it was the following Sunday my mother called me and said, "Wesley worked at the WTC and he is missing." I was in denial and disbelief...and I still am...especially when Sept. 11th comes around.
Rest In Peace Mr. Mercer. I have no doubt that the ancestors greeted you upon your return home. It gives me comfort that you are now reunited with your longtime partner Mr. Randolph. To the both of you....well done.
Mariann Smith
October 18, 2022
I remember him from my days as a young teenage woman working in the finance department at Pinkerton. He was always kind and caring to everyone. I laughed when I read about the sport jacket to walk the dog because there wasnt a day he didnt come to work in a dapper three piece suit. He was a rue gentleman and friend.
Franklin Gilliam
September 7, 2021
Signing this for the third time now, and it is no less easier. I am 53 now and remember Mr. Mercer like it was yesterday. This event changed our lives and the world we knew forever. Mr. Mercer will always be a factor in my life of compassion and inspiration.
Bishop Franklin Gilliam III
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Shawna
September 6, 2021
What a stellar human being you are
N H
September 11, 2017
In honour of the sacrifice Wesley Mercer made to save the lives of others
Franklin Gilliam
September 23, 2015
I am still at loss for words that this caring man is gone. He was to retire that year in November as we last spoke in July. You are remembered well by the lives you touched at Dean Witter Reynolds. Many of us were able to succeed in our dreams because of your compassion and desire to seek young African American men elevate themselves. Peace and love always, Pastor Franklin Gilliam
S J. Friscia III
November 21, 2014
In Memory
With Honor & Respect.
Marty
May 28, 2014
Mr. Mercer was a role model
for me. God Bless him.
Patricia Whelan
September 5, 2012
Prayers and rememberance.
Charles Summerhill
January 25, 2009
I lived in NYC before 911 and then moved away. Because of my connection with NYC, 911 hit dead center. St John the Devine was my spiritual sanctuary during the time I lived in NYC. I came back to NYC shortly after 911 and made it a point to visit the most spiritual place I knew in NYC. I walked through the back part of the cathedral where the memorials are. I saw an entry for Wesley Mercer, died 09/11/01. I instantly assumed that he had died in the world trade center. A little research confirmed that Mr. Mercer was a victim. I never knew Mr. Mercer, but after seeing his name in the most spiritual place I know in NYC, he somehow meant something more to me. As a spiritual person, I feel Mr. Mercer is at peace. God bless his partner, family and friends. Please feel free to contact me for further healing.
Eileen Rich
September 12, 2007
I worked in Tower 2 for Morgan Stanley. I frequently saw Wesley who always had a smile for me. I last saw him a week before 9/11. I saw his photo on TV yesterday during the reading of the victims' names and thought I would look around on the web for more about him. Thanks for giving me the chance to acknowledge this wonderful man's presence in my life. I look forward to seeing Wesley the next time around.
P Tabbernor
January 1, 2007
In remembrance....
Kristine
November 17, 2006
As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Adrian Lewis
September 11, 2006
Cousin Wes,
I just want to thank you for blessing us with your life.
Walk in peace
Micheal Cloar
December 15, 2004
Years have passed have passed when I last spoke to Wesley brother Jackey Mercer. Jackey would talk about his brother every other day. Jackey youer brother has come home. God be with you Wesley. Love Micheal,Lucas,Autumn Cloar.
SALLY HICKS
December 8, 2004
WESLEY IS MY HUSBAND'S STEP UNCLE AND ALTHOUGH I NEVER MET WESLEY I FEEL THAT THROUGH HIS LIFE PARTNER WILLIAM I AM MEETING HIM NOW.WILLIAM AND I SHARE SOME VERY PRECIOUS MEMORIES OF THEIR 20+ YEAR'S TOGETHER,GOD PICK'S THE BEST FLOWER'S FIRST SO WESLEY WAS THE PERFECT FLOWER.HE WILL ALWAY'S BE HERE IN SPIRIT. LOVE YA WILLIAM.
SALLY
Ann Monteleone
September 11, 2003
I do not know Mr. Mercer but when watching the HBO 9-11 documentary - my heart sadden more seeing Mr. Mercer's partner Bill - I am sorry for your lost and to Mr Mercer's children. I work for Discover Card and we assisted on the hotline for Morgan Stanley searching for their employees on 09/11 and 09/12.
God Bless Mr Mercer~
Anne Samachson
September 11, 2003
Bill:
If you read this, I want you to know that although we've never met, I saw Wesley nearly every day at 2 WTC. Such a strong, handsome presence ... the biggest shock to me wasn't that he put others' safety ahead of his own, but that he was 70 years old. 70! I think of that as old, but Wesley was so strong and vital, I'd never have guessed he was over 55.
Today marks two years to the day, and we are being told that we need to remember what happened ... but many of us will never forget what happened, and will never stop thanking Wesley for saving so many of our friends and colleagues.
My deepest sympathy on your loss. God bless you both.
Judy Cherbonneau
December 8, 2002
To loved ones left behind who knew and loved Wesley Mercer,
Tearfully, I just finished reading "Heart Of A Soldier", the story featuring Col. Rick Rescorla, and in the last chapters descriptions of September 11, speak volumes about Col. Rescorla and Mr. Mercer. Sadly, I never had the great pleasure to know either man, but it is obvious both men were heroes to those of us in America and especially to the thousands of people who were able to go home to their loved ones.
Rest In Peace, Mr. Mercer and may God Bless you and all those who loved and knew you! America can never thank those who were lost that day, but God will!
My heart still aches for those who were left behind...I am so sorry for your loss. [email protected]
Charlette Wynn
November 17, 2002
Hey cousin Wesley this is Charlette your cousin....You really didnt me but i heard alot about you...i was suppost to meet you sometime soon but then ....u know...i miss you alot ...ever sence this terrorist attac i couldnt stop thinking about it.....LOL rest in peace....miss u always...
Franklin Gilliam III
September 11, 2002
It is a privilege to sign make a statement about this man. Mercer was an inspiration and a tool used by God to help many young African Americans achieve major goals in life. He went beyond average means to helps us work and go to college, even when it meant stressful planning of covering job positions for our benefit. I have excelled in all my goals in life, from theater school, siminary college, and youth and international minister because this man never gave up on me in the most difficult time. Many of us have this story of his deeds- I love him. In Christ Gilliam.
Victoria
August 22, 2002
A true hero who gave his life for the people he agreed to protect at DWR. God bless him and God bless those who love him.
WILLIAM RANDOLPH JR
August 11, 2002
WESLEY WAS A MANY WHO ENJOYED LIFE. HIS YEARS IN THE ARMY, HIS TWO DAUGHTERS, HIS WORK AT HIS CHURCH AND THE FRIENDS HE MET ALONG THE WAY. I HAD THE PLEASURE OF KNOWNING AND LOVING HIM FOR 26 YEARS.I THINK OF HIM EVERYDAY. MY LIFE PARTNER DIED DOING HIS JOB- PUTTING OTHERS LIVES BEFORE HIS. WESLEY IS AMONG THE ANGELS NOW, AND WE HERE ON EARTH ARE A LITTLE BETTER FOR KNOWING HIM. I LOVE YOU
June 21, 2002
I saw Wesley on the HBO 9-11 special. A person who worked with him was holding up a picture of him. I burst into tears. He seemed like such a good and nice person. I feel so bad, I haven't forgotten his name since I saw the documentary over a month ago.
Michael Iezzi
June 6, 2002
Father we entrust our brother Wesley to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
Angie Campbell
May 7, 2002
May you rest in peace forever more.
March 7, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS HERO...AND GENTLEMEN WESLEY MERCER AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..STAY CLOSE AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK...MAY JESUS AND HIS SAINTS GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
WILLIAM LENTO
February 23, 2002
I knew Wes Mercer he too was a good
& fair man may he rest in peace
Teresa Jahn
December 21, 2001
We thank Wesley for his dedication of protecting others through his military time and then as a police officer. We are very sorry for your loss of Wesley. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
anonymous
October 31, 2001
Thank you for your service to the people of Morgan Stanley.
May you rest in peace.
Lisa Battee
October 30, 2001
Thank God for your heart of courage.
I pray His grace over your family.
Kimberly Hunt
October 24, 2001
I remember Uncle Wesley always smiling. Although I hadn't seen him in a few years, I remember the times I spent in Brookland with him and Queenie. He will truly be missed.
May he rest in peace.
Showing 1 - 35 of 35 results
Make a Donation
in Wesley Mercer's name
How to support Wesley 's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Wesley Mercer's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored