April 18, 2021, 75, Goldsboro –

Donald Ray Mercer, 75, passed away on Sunday, April 18, 2021, at Vidant Medical Center.

Donald was born in Wilson County on May 25, 1945, to the late Claude and Lillian “Estelle” Evans Mercer. He moved to Wayne County after marrying Vikki Best Mercer in 1970. They were married for 51 years and raised a daughter, Kate.

During his life, Donald proudly served in the North Carolina National Guard, was an electrical and general contractor, and taught for many years with the Wayne County Public Schools as an electrical trades teacher at Southern Wayne High School.

Donald lived a life of dedication to his family and friends, and to his community. He enjoyed volunteering with the Wayne County Relay for Life, and he was an active member of St. Joseph United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Men’s group in Pikeville.

In addition to his parents, Donald was preceded in death by a brother, Marvin E. Mercer. He is survived by his wife, Vikki; daughter, Kate Leahy and husband, Sean, of Clayton; sister, Janie Cockrell and husband, Phil, of Wilson; brother, Claude A. Mercer Jr. and wife, Bertie, of Bailey; and one ever-so-special grandchild, Margaret “Maggie” Leahy.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, April 23, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. in Wayne Memorial Park with Rev. Rose Hicks officiating. Attendees are asked to wear a face covering, practice social distancing, and bring a chair, if needed. The family will receive friends at the cemetery following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be given in Donald’s memory to the Salvation Army, P.O. Box 188, Goldsboro, NC 27533 or Diamonds in the Ruff, P.O. Box 10033, Goldsboro, NC 27532 or to any Wayne County Relay For Life Team.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.