CARTHAGE
Thomas Lee Mercer, 83, of Carthage passed away Friday, May 12, 2023 at Hancock Regional Hospital. He was born May 5, 1940 in Anderson, to the late Samuel James and Thelma (Lee) Mercer.
Tom graduated from Salem Center High School in 1958 and entered Anderson College that fall. He graduated from Anderson in 1962. On June 8, 1963, Tom married his college sweetheart, Claire Ann Clark.
Tom was hired as sixth grade teacher at Carthage School in Carthage, Indiana. Thus began a career with what after became Charles A. Beard School Corp. of Knightstown, Carthage and Kennard. They lived in Carthage for many years.
Tom’s love of the community, its history and its present was apparent in his involvement in his activities and on-going research and collecting old photos and memorabilia. Following retirement in 1998, Tom loved time spent with the family, doing historical research and watching sports on TV, especially IU Basketball. He also spent time traveling and attending grandchildren’s basketball games and other activities. Family was Tom’s greatest joy and each gathering was treasured.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his twin brother: Ronald and his sister, Charlotte McClurg.
In addition to his wife, Claire, Tom is survived by three children: Bradley Scott Mercer (Mary Floyd), Lisa Mercer and Melinda Suzanne Mercer (Brett Schutzman); grandchildren: Ruby Charlotte Smith (Zach), Jackson Lee Edwards, Dallas Reed Edwards, Michael Markins (Traci) and a great-granddaughter: Bailey Markins; a brother: Larry (Patricia) Mercer.
Tom loved God, his family and his friends. He never said a harsh word against anyone and was totally unselfish. He was honest and ever aware of others’ needs.
Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 16, 2023 at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service-Knightstown Chapel with services 1:00 p.m. with Robert Guillaume officiating. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Carthage. www.hinsey-brown.com.
