William Ray Mercer

William Ray Mercer, 67, of Hamilton, passed away Sunday March 2 at his residence. Funeral services have been set for 1:00 P.M. Thursday March 6 at Riley Funeral Home. Visitation will be Wednesday March 5 from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M.

He was born December 9, 1946 to the late Chester & Esther Mercer in Valley Park, Missouri. He married Claudia Cecile Trigg on January 31, 1969. He served in the U.S. Army 1st Cavalry Division from 1965 to 1969. He was in Vietnam from 1966 to 1967. While in the army he earned three bronze service stars, Purple Heart with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Marksman Air Medal 7 Bronze Star with a V for Valor. He later moved to Hamilton in 1973 were he worked at the State School for Boys.

William was an avid fisherman and outdoorsman. He was a Gold Panner, Hunter Arrowhead hunter & Collector. He also loved Antiquing and gardening. He was a carpenter and loved making furniture. He rebuilt/remodeled a 1898 Victorian Home. He was an honorary Navajo Warrior of the Water Willow Clan. He was a devoted husband, father & grandfather.

He is survived by his two daughter; Cinamon Mercer of Jarrell, TX & Amanda Hancock & husband Xavier of Galveston, TX. Three brothers; Kenny Mercer of Sullivan, MO, Donny Mercer of Cadet, MO & Chet Ray Mercer of Sullivan, MO. Four grandchildren; Jamee Jeffers, Sara Horton, Xavier Hancock II & Annabel Hancock. Please leave online condolences at www.rileyfuneral.com. Riley Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.