Mrs. Mercia McKenzie

Mercia moved to her beloved New York City at age 14. Living in the vibrant Harlem neighborhood, Mercia found herself immersed in the arts, theater, and diversity of New York.

She graduated from The City College of New York and it was there where she met her dear husband Fred, marrying him a few years later in 1960. From this union, two children were born: Wilfred “Duke” and Rona.

After college, Mercia had a long and successful career at AT&T. Towards the end of her career, she also stepped into a new role as the Office Manager for the family medical practice.

Outside of work, when not caring for her children, plants, or dogs, Mercia was known for her extensive travels, love of books, and her collectibles. She was a frequent customer of the Gem Shopping Network and found plenty of joy in collecting rare historical coins. If you ever wanted to talk politics or history, you could always count on Mercia. She visited dozens of countries, learning deeply about each culture and always making sure to bring a souvenir back home.

Upon Fred’s retirement, they moved to South Florida to enjoy the warmer weather and support Wilfred and Rona’s new medical careers. Despite reminiscing about the days she spent ice skating in Central Park, Mercia came to love her new home in Florida. She found plenty of joy in gardening, relishing the warm winter weather, and spending time with her kids and grandkids.

Mercia is survived by her daughter Rona, her son Wilfred, her daughter-in-laws Khadra and Asiya, her five grandchildren Ayaan, Omar, Lala, Jaby and Ebyan, and scores of other relatives and friends.

Mercia will be laid to rest on Valentine’s Day, next to her late husband Fred, the love of her life.