Blanche Annelle Mercer

Blanche Annelle Mercer, 76, of Kinston, left this life to be with her Lord, Jan. 14, 2017.

Annelle was a member of Neuse Baptist Church, in Kinston where she served her Lord as a member of the choir and sometime pianist.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Carroll Mercer, her daughter, Melody Mercer, and her parents Nathan and Julia Mae Pope of Clinton. She was a graduate of Herring High School and worked as co-director of New Hope Church Daycare for 18 years. She also worked seven years as an aide at Lenoir Memorial Hospital before retiring.

Annelle is survived by one son, Jeffrey Mercer and wife Donna, of Beulaville and one grandson, Jesse Mercer, who as she would tell anyone who would listen, that he was her reason for living. She is also survived by one brother, Graham Glenn Pope of Clinton, two sisters, Sue Pope Brigman and husband Kenneth of Kinston and, Gail Pope Smith and husband Ray of Clinton. She was greatly loved and will continue to be loved by two nieces, four nephews, several great nieces and nephews, one, Dale Hayes, whom she helped to raise and love and claimed as her own, and many friends. Annelle was a "MOTHER" and friend to all who wanted or needed her. She will be greatly missed.

Her life will be celebrated at Neuse Baptist Church in Kinston, Tuesday, Jan. 17, at 1 p.m. Burial will follow the service at Pinelawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be Monday, Jan. 16, fom 6-8 p.m. at Howard-Carter Funeral Home and other times at her home on Tyler Drive, Kinston. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to your local Relay For Life.