Obituary of Sterling Everett Mercer

Sterling Everett Mercer passed away with his family by his side at Ridgewood Veteran’s Wing in Saint John on September 22nd, 2022, just shy of his 100th birthday.  Born in Bloomfield Ridge on October 14th, 1922, to Arthur and Viola Mercer. Sterling was predeceased by his loving wife of 68 years, Evelyn (Hoyt) Mercer. 

Survived by his daughters Joyce McElman and Marion Friars and their husbands Don McElman and Bill Friars, son Richard Mercer and wife Kathleen Short. 

Sterling was blessed with his grandchildren: Mark McElman (Katie Bowden), David McElman, Meredith Kidney (Alex), Adam Friars (Tricia), Andrew Friars (Deanna), Jennifer Mercer, Greg Mercer (Kate), Sarah McCully (Chris), Stephen Mercer (Jennifer) and Jenna Graves (Steven); 21 great grandchildren: Jackson, Quinn, Carter, Gabe, Lucy, Cole, Gracie, Josie, Claire, Abby, Noah, Dean, Rory, Finley, Norah, Suzanna, Everett, Amelia, Desmond, Sterling, and Noelle. Sterling is survived by his brother Gordon Mercer. Predeceased by siblings: Warren, Gladys, Chesley, Eleanor, Dot, Grace, Jessie, Edmund and Beatrice; and great grandchildren: Caleb and Sydney. 

Sterling Mercer grew up in Bloomfield where he met and fell in love with Evelyn. They married in 1945 and eventually moved to Lower Norton. He was a WWII veteran and a 75 yr. member of the Hampton Legion. Sterling received 2 Governor Generals awards for his volunteer work. He was always quick to lend a neighbour a helping hand. He loved to curl with the Seniors Curling Club, to Square dance, to fish, hunt and hike, even hiking the Fundy footpath in 4 sections starting at the age of 80.  He was always up for a good game of cards.  He enjoyed trips around North America in his motorhome with Evelyn riding shotgun and he stood faithfully by her side and cared for her throughout her struggle with Alzheimers.  He will be remembered by most restaurant employees by ordering his usual fish ‘n chips (with 11 fries) and an Alpine.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Reid’s Funeral Home (506-832-5541), Hampton, NB. A public visitation will be held on Monday, September 26, 2022, from 3:00 to 7:00PM at Hampton United Church, 24 Robb Crt, Hampton, NB. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, September 27, 2022 at 2:00PM from Church of the Ascension, 31 Norton Shore Rd, Lower Norton, NB, with an interment to follow. Visitors to the visitation or funeral service may feel free to wear masks if they prefer. Donations in memory of Sterling can be made to the charity of your choice. Personal condolences to the family and donations may be made through ReidsFH.com

The family would like to express a sincere thank you to the staff of the Ridgewood Veterans Wing for all their care given over the years. Your kindness and compassion shown towards Sterling and his family will not be forgotten.

Sterling was loved and will be missed by his family and friends.