Merci is survived by her mother Linda Paschal and step father Ed Paschal, her step mother Margie Morris, her brother Patrick and his wife Connie Morris. Other survivors include Merci’s life-long best friend Lindy Richter and “Aunt” Carol Roberson. Merci was predeceased by her father, Tony Morris.
Merci had a happy childhood, but in her early twenties she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukemia [AML]. This was the beginning of a long and painful journey of cancer treatments. She received two treatments of chemotherapy in San Antonio, but was referred to M.D. Anderson when the cancer returned both times. At M.D. Anderson, after receiving more chemotherapy and full body radiation, she underwent a bone marrow transplant on January 19, 1995. Merci celebrated January 19 as her second birthday because the transplant had given her new life.
Though leukemia sapped her of energy and vitality for more than half her adult life, Merci fought the disease with great courage and resilience for 27 years, never complaining. She was a compassionate human being, and learned early to cherish the gift of each day and close friendships. Rest in peace Merci, finally free of pain.
Merci was dedicated to the recycling concept. In a final act of recycling, she donated her eyes upon her death to the Lions Eye Bank at the Baylor College of Medicine so someone else could enjoy the gift of sight.
The family is eternally grateful for the excellent medical care, compassion, and kindness given to Merci at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. Special thanks go to Dr. Richard Champlin, his entire clinical staff, Tobi Fisher [PA], and the nurses of M.D. Anderson.
Merci would have wanted to thank all the residents and staff at Landon Ridge in Sugar Land for their friendship, caring, and love. All were very special and important to her. In her last days Merci stated that she had many happy memories from her time at Landon Ridge.
Merci’s cremains will rest in the “Wall of Memories” Gazebo at the Sunset Memorial Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas after a private family service. A “Celebration of Life” is planned at Landon Ridge on April 19th at 7:00 pm.
Memorial donations in memory of Merci may be made to M.D. Anderson Cancer Center online at https://gifts.mdanderson.org or by mail at 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, Texas, 77030.
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