Joe Lindle Mercer

He was born on June 6, 1930, in Sulphur, Oklahoma to Add Guther and Maud Eldred Mercer. He spent much of his life on the family farm in southeastern Oklahoma. He moved to Loraine, Texas during his high school years, and he met and married Shirley Crenshaw on July 11, 1953.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Shirley, and his 11 siblings: Mary Stella, Aubrey Leroy, Alma, Myrtle Mildred, Woodrow, Monroe Kenneth, Oleta, Leonard Watson, Lawanda, Wilma Faye and Ona Mae.

He is survived by his children: Stephen L. Mercer (Candace), Gregory Mercer, Laurie Renfro (Paul) and Sonja Johnson. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren; Shane Mercer (Scarlett), Brittany Fullwood (Zach), Ryan Mercer (Marisa), Josh Renfro (Anna), Brianne Clark (Max), Jenna Jaax (Evan), Daniel Renfro (Hannah), and Whitney Benoit; 18 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

He graduated from Loraine High School in 1948 and served in the US Army for 2 years during the Korean Conflict. Following his time in the Army, he began a long career with the Texas Electric Service Company from which he retired in 1987.

Joe was a man of many talents and hobbies. He was a gifted musician and singer/songwriter/poet. He was an avid gardener, artist and skilled carpenter/electrician/plumber. His strong faith and love of the Lord continues to make a lasting impact on his family.