Gilchrist Haywood Mercer's Obituary
Gilchrist Haywood Mercer, Jr., 71 of Punta Gorda, Florida, passed away peacefully in his sleep at Tidwell Hospice House in Port Charlotte, FL on February 22, 2015 with family by his side. Haywood was born and raised in DeSoto County by his parents, Gilchrist Haywood Mercer Sr. and Georgia Ellen Mercer along side of his six sisters. Best know for his years during the 70’s and 80’s as the owner and operator of Mercer’s General Store located in Fort Ogden, FL where he had settled to raise his two daughters. Affectionately known to the locals as Mercer’s Mall and Social Club, Haywood was given the honorary title of the Mayor of Fort Ogden. After his children grew up to begin their adult life, Haywood made the decision to follow his dream and went into the real estate business in Charlotte County. As sole proprietor of Mercer Real Estate, Haywood enjoyed a very successful career only closing the doors upon his retirement one month ago. He enjoyed his time away from work with his grandchildren and great grandchildren and was a die-hard Tampa Bay Buc’s fan from their Day one and for better or worse…Haywood is survived by two daughters, Hayley Marie and Ellen Marie; five granddaughters, Charly Tomlinson, Jessie Lucia, Ashely Becker, Molly Tomlinson and Veronica Kleinz; three great grandchildren, Fallon June Bird, Jayla and Joseph Lucia; six sisters, Marlyn Chaney, Carolyn Hoyt, Mabel Lowry, Freida Kay Mercer, Dorothy Grantham and Penny Mourer in addition to many nieces, cousins and one nephew. He was predeceased in death by his parents, Georgia Ellen and Gilchrist Haywood Mercer, Sr. and his Granddaughter, Rebecca June Bowling.A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday February 28, 2015 from 2-4PM at Kings Park in Fort Ogden, FL. Before parting Haywood let it be known that all were welcome to join in his Day and of course ~ to Drink a Beer.
What’s your fondest memory of Gilchrist?
What’s a lesson you learned from Gilchrist?
Share a story where Gilchrist's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Gilchrist you’ll never forget.
How did Gilchrist make you smile?