Today, we gather with heavy hearts, but also with deep gratitude, to honor the life of Rhonda Lyn English Mere—a remarkable woman whose strength, resilience, and love left a lasting imprint on everyone who knew her.
Rhonda was born on August 31, 1967, and from an early age she carried a quiet determination and an unmistakable strength. She was a woman who did not simply dream—she built, she led, and she persevered. Her life was a reflection of courage, independence, and an unwavering commitment to what mattered most.
Above all else, Rhonda loved her family. Her greatest joy and proudest role was being a mother to her daughter, Destiny Danae Mere, who was the center of her world. Every decision she made, every challenge she faced, and every success she achieved was rooted in her desire to give Destiny love, stability, and opportunity. Rhonda was not just a mother—she was a protector, a teacher, and a constant source of encouragement.
On October 16, Rhonda married Steve Mere, and together they shared many years of life’s journey. From that marriage came her greatest gift—her daughter, Destiny, who was always the center of Rhonda’s world and the focus of her love and devotion.
Rhonda found peace and happiness in simple but meaningful moments—especially at the coast. She loved the beach and cherished watching the sun set over the bay from her balcony at Destiny Marina. There, she found calm, reflection, and renewal. True to her resilient spirit, Rhonda purchased the marina after it had been destroyed by Hurricane Ivan, rebuilding it with vision and determination. She believed in restoration, second chances, and creating something strong and beautiful after loss.
Professionally, Rhonda was exceptional. She graduated top of her class from Tupelo College of Cosmetology and quickly distinguished herself as a natural leader. After working in a personal salon, she joined MasterCuts at Barnes Crossing Mall in Tupelo, where her talent and work ethic set her apart. Within just a few years, she became the youngest store manager in the history of the Regis Corporation. Soon after, she was promoted to Regional Manager, overseeing five states—again, the youngest in company history. Her achievements were remarkable, not only for their scale, but for the confidence, discipline, and grace with which she achieved them.
At the age of 37, Rhonda made a powerful and defining choice—to retire and devote herself fully to being present for her daughter. That decision speaks clearly to her values. Success mattered to Rhonda, but motherhood mattered more.
Rhonda was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas “Ray” English and Ann Key English, whom she loved deeply. She leaves behind her husband Steve, her beloved daughter Destiny(Jase); her sisters Janet English Hannon (Rickey)and Vickie English Jones; and her cherished nieces and nephews—Cristal Jones, Eric Jones (Anna), Kayla Jones McGonagill (Jared), Amy Hannon Martin (Carey), Evan Hannon(Makayla)as well as several great-nieces and great-nephews who were blessed by her love and presence.
Rhonda was a woman of strength, determination, and heart. She was a devoted mother, a loving sister, a loyal friend, and a fearless businesswoman. She showed us what it means to rise, to rebuild, and to live with purpose—even when the path was not easy.
Though we mourn her loss today, we also celebrate a life lived fully and fiercely. Rhonda’s legacy lives on—in her daughter, in the lives she touched, and in every sunset over the bay that reminds us of her strength and spirit.
She will never be forgotten
