ROBERT CAYWOOD MERCER

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. -- Robert Caywood Mercer, 72, passed away after a short battle with cancer on Sept. 10, 2013 at Myrtle Beach Estates Assisted Living Center in Myrtle Beach, S.C. Bob was born on May 22, 1941, in Toledo, Ohio. He was the son of the late Edward H. and Anne O. Mercer. He grew up in Bowling Green, Ohio. He graduated from Bowling Green High School and Ohio State University where he was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. After graduation, Bob entered J.C. Penney Co. management training program in 1964. He spent his entire career working for Penney's. He started with Penney's in Columbus, Ohio. From there he went to Huntington, W.Va., where he met his wife, Gail. After that he was in stores in Baden, Pa., Ambridge, Pa. and Caribou, Maine. He retired in 1997 as store manager of the Waterville, Maine store, which he opened in 1984. After retirement, Bob and Gail divided their time between Waterville and Murrells Inlet, S.C., living by the ocean that he loved.

He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Gail (Coleman) Mercer; daughters Mary Anne (Chris) Whitney, of Las Vegas, Nev., and Katherine (Brett) Goodrich, of Waterville; four grandchildren, Robbie and Zachary Whitney, both of Las Vegas, and Emma and Ethan Goodrich, both of Waterville; and sister Barbara Miller, of Washington, Mich.

The family would like to give special thanks to Mary Catherine Metlicke and Sheena Bryant for all of their compassionate care. in lieu of flowers, the family has requested contributions made to Beacon Hospice, 3959 Highway 17 Bypass, Murrells Inlet, S.C. 29576; or to the hospice of their choice.

A memorial service will be held in the spring in Waterville.

Condolences may be made at: www.burroughsfh.com.

The Burroughs Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Murrells Inlet (843-651-1440) is in charge of arrangements.