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1948-2023
Marilyn L. Mercer, 75, of Winston-Salem, N.C., passed away Sept. 2, 2023.
Marilyn was born Aug. 30, 1948, to William and Phyllis Eshelman in Salem, Ohio, and grew up in Beloit, Ohio. After graduating from West Branch High School in 1966, she went on to earn both bachelor's and master's degrees from Kent State University.
Marilyn spent 32 years as an elementary school teacher within the West Branch Local School District as both a first grade teacher and a reading remediation specialist. She married her husband, Thomas J. Mercer, in 1979 in Salem, and they had two children, Andrew and Annie. She dedicated her life to her family and was a true matriarch in every sense of the word. Her favorite things all revolved around sharing experiences and making memories with her family. From sitting on the oceanfront deck of her favorite Nags Head beach cottage to cheering on the Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium on fall Saturdays, her favorite experiences always occurred surrounded by her loving family. Holiday rituals were highlights, too, including making her famous stuffing at Thanksgiving dinner and meticulously decorating her beautiful Christmas tree with her collection of unique ornaments.
Marilyn was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and aunt. All of us reciprocated her love and devotion and, although we will miss her greatly, we look forward to carrying on the treasured family traditions that we all so enjoy.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents and her older brother, Jeff Eshelman. Her memory will continue to be cherished by her close family, and her legacy of generosity, kindness, loyalty, selflessness and love will be felt for generations. Survivors include her husband, Tom Mercer of Winston-Salem, N.C.; her son, Andrew (Kathryn) Mercer of Winston-Salem, N.C.; her daughter, Annie (Tripp) Womble of Fuquay-Varina, N.C.; grandchildren, Will and Claire Mercer of Winston-Salem, N.C. and Luella Womble of Fuquay-Varina, N.C.; sister, Julie Eshelman of Akron, Ohio; niece, Megan (Brandon) Minrovic of Mogadore, Ohio; nephew, Justin (Erin) Ingham of Akron, Ohio; and great-nieces and -nephews, Alex (Michael) Parisher, Sydney and Karis Dutton, Trevor, Ella, and Brynn Ingham, and Bryce Minrovic, all of Ohio.
A private family memorial service will be held at a later date.
Condolences may be made online at www.salemfh.com.
9/6/23