Mercer Leroy Saunders

   Mercer Leroy Saunders, 83, of 109 Hertford Beach Road, Hertford, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, in his home where he was being cared for by family.

   Mr. Saunders was born in Pasquotank County on November 11, 1941, and was the son of the late Melvin Leroy and Eliza Cooper Saunders Beacham. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Alice Jean Lamb (husband, Maxie, deceased), brother, Donald R. Saunders, and brothers-in-law, William G. Matthews and Donald Richard Matthews.

   The owner and operator of Mercer’s Grocery for 18 years, he later retired from Food Lion following over 30 years of employment. Among his many enjoyments in life included his love of gardening and fishing.

   Surviving is his wife of 65 years, Ida Matthews Saunders; his daughter, Christine S. Berry (husband, William “John”); his son, David M. Saunders (wife, Annette); two grandsons, Daniel Lee Berry and Joseph B. Berry (wife, Danielle); two wonderful great-grandchildren, Lillian M. and Brady J. Berry; sisters-in-law, Carolyn Meads, Julie B. Matthews, Rita Saunders; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

   A memorial service will be held Saturday at 11:00 a.m. in Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 1125 Harvey Point Road, Hertford, and will be conducted by Pastor Tom Hallberg. A private inurnment will be in Cedarwood Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family in the funeral immediately following the service on Saturday, and all other time at the residence.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Hertford United Methodist Church, 200 Dobbs Street, Hertford, NC 27944.

   Online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.