Saline River Chronicle

Samuel “Sam” Mercer, 1938-2022

Samuel “Sam” Mercer, age 84 of Rison, passed away Saturday, August 13, 2022 at his home surrounded by all of his children. He was born April 7, 1938 in the Pansy community to the late Earl and Alma Gavin Mercer. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by daughter Glenda Sue Mercer, two brothers, Joe Mercer and Earl Kelly and one sister, Robbie Ashcraft. He served in the National Guard from 1961 to 1967. He was an employee of Viking Bag company in Pine Bluff, AR for 14 years and a lifelong cattle and poultry farmer. Sam was a member of Union United Methodist Church in Rye, AR.

Sam was known by many as a.k.a. “Uncle Nude” and lovingly referred to as “Pappa” and was the true definition of a “Jack of all trades.” Sam loved fishing, horseback riding and even had a few wild rounds as a bullrider against Brenda’s best wishes at times. Even though Sam was “daddy” to four children, he always had a house full of people whom he loved and considered family.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Brenda Taylor Mercer; son Ricky (Cindy) Mercer of Yukon, OK; son Mark Mercer of Rye, AR; and daughter Donna (Mack) Milner of Watson Chapel, AR; two sisters, Sadie Wingard of Hot Springs, AR and Pat Ashcraft of Rye, AR and sister-in-law, Mary Mercer of Rye, AR.

Sam was blessed with seven grandchildren; Farron (Drew) Mercer, Brooks (Miranda) Mercer, Samantha Milner, Nicholas Mercer, Tyler Henslee, Reece Mercer, and Jesse Milner. Four great-grandchildren; Talan Mercer, Harper Mercer, Nash Mercer and the soon arrival of little Theo.
He leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews and many loving friends.

Graveside services were 2:00 p.m., Monday, August 15, 2022 at Union Cemetery in Rye, AR with son Rick Mercer officiating. Pallbearers were Farron Mercer, Brooks Mercer, Reece Mercer, Nicholas Mercer, Jesse Milner, Samantha Milner and Tyler Henslee. Arrangements are by Frazer‘s Funeral Home of Warren, AR.

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