Dorothy G. Mercer

Dorothy G. Mercer, age 97, passed away on Thursday, November 30, 2023, in San Antonio, Texas. Dottie and Gugu, as she was known by her family and friends, was born in Brenham, Texas where she graduated from high school before marrying her husband of 56 years, Tim (Poppy). She was preceded in death by husband, LTC Thomas N. (Tim) Mercer; son, Thomas N. Mercer, II; daughter, Constance Rodgers; and brothers, Burney, and Lonnie Graeber. Dorothy is survived by her five grandchildren, Christy Marler and Michelle Farrell of Tulsa, Michael Rodgers and Kenny Rodgers of Dallas and Julie Rodgers of Philadelphia. Gugu is also survived by her niece Marilyn Joliff of Kerrville and many great grandchildren.

Gugu was the ultimate host in life, handling the cooking and hosting duties out of her home on Lantana. She not only hosted parties, but she was actively involved in the Army Wives Club, Engineers’ Wives Club, Assistance League, and her church. She was into her 90s before she finally slowed her volunteer work. Even once she physically slowed down, she was always remembering others by sending cards of love and encouragement. She was an amazing cook, even when family couldn’t make it to San Antonio for Christmas, Gugu would mail boxes of homemade goodies to those who couldn’t make it.

Gugu was successful in all her pursuits, as a civilian employee at Ft. Sam Houston she was recognized for outstanding service in 1969. In addition to her contributions in her community, Gugu was the best grandma in the world. She loved her grandkids, great-grandkids and great-great-grandson, Maxwell Marler. Each of them has wonderful memories of being with her and Poppy.

In the end, time caught up with Gugu and the family would be remiss to not recognize Gugu’s dear friend and caregiver Cynthia Charos. With no family local and Gugu unwilling to move, Cindy was Gugu’s lifeline for help and fun. Cindy celebrated Gugu big and kept her beautiful and in laughs until her very last days. Gugu departed life knowing she was loved until the end.

Gugu has left a hole in the hearts of her family. Although we are happy she is reunited with Poppy and her children, along with many other family and friends; those of us who loved her have a little less joy in their lives without Gugu.

A Visitation will be held on Sunday, December 17, 2023, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at Porter Loring Mortuary.

A Chapel Service will be held on Monday, December 18, 2023, at 1:00pm.

Interment in Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery will follow where Dorothy will be laid to rest with her beloved husband and son.

Rev. Ricardo Jimenez-Reyes of McArthur Park Lutheran Church where the Mercers were long time members will officiate.