Jack Richard Mercer

Jack Richard Mercer, 91, of Byron, Georgia, went to be with his Lord on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. A devoted man of faith, a hardworking provider, and a loving family man, Jack leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Jack’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday, October 19, 2026, at FairHaven Funeral Home. The family invites friends to join them one hour prior to the service for a time of visitation and remembrance. Pastor Micah Carr will be officiating all services.

Jack was born on November 25, 1934, in Jones County, Georgia, to the late Mr. William Ernest Mercer and Mrs. Essie Newberry Mercer. One of twelve siblings, Jack grew up understanding the importance of family, hard work, and the bonds that bring loved ones together. Throughout his 91 years, he lived a life defined by dedication, kindness, and an unwavering love for his family and his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Jack proudly served in the Navy Reserve before retiring from his career with Armstrong World Industries. A hardworking man by nature, he believed in the value of honest work and took pride in all that he did. His strong work ethic and dependable spirit were a reflection of the character he carried throughout his life.

Beyond his work, Jack found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He enjoyed the outdoors, spending time fishing, playing golf, and tending to his chickens. A passionate sports fan, he especially loved Georgia Tech football. He also enjoyed coaching school-aged football, where he had the opportunity to share his love of the game and encourage young athletes along the way. Whether in the garden, on the football field, out on the golf course, or enjoying a peaceful day outdoors, Jack was happiest when doing the things he loved.

Jack shared a beautiful life with the love of his life, his beloved wife of more than 50 years, Kay Mercer. Their years together were filled with love, companionship, and countless memories. Jack especially loved Mrs. Kay’s cooking, and those meals were about more than just good food; they were a reflection of the love and warmth she brought to their home. The memories they created together remained a treasured part of his life. Jack was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kay Mercer; two sons, Rick Mercer and Wade Taylor; and his parents, William Ernest Mercer and Essie Newberry Mercer.

Those who knew Jack will remember him for his kind heart, his ever-present smile, and his wonderful sense of humor. He was a natural jokester who loved making others laugh and bringing joy into any room he entered. His playful spirit and warm personality made him a pleasure to be around, and his ability to find humor in everyday moments was one of the many qualities that made him so special. Beneath his humor was a genuinely caring man whose kindness and love touched the lives of many.

Above all, Jack loved Jesus and his family. His faith was an important part of his life, and his love for those closest to him was evident in the way he lived each day. Though he endured the heartbreak of losing those he loved dearly, the memories and bonds they shared remained an enduring part of his story.

Though Jack will be dearly missed, his family and friends can take comfort in knowing that he has gone home to be with his Lord. His legacy of faith, hard work, kindness, and laughter will continue to live on through the generations he leaves behind and the countless memories shared by those fortunate enough to have known him.

Jack Richard Mercer will be forever loved, deeply missed, and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.