Obituary: James Mercer, 50; Loved to Fish, Wore His #5 Dale Earnhart Hat

Obituary from Mackey Funeral Home.

James Mercer, 50, died on June 13 after a long illness. Raised in Danvers, he was the son of Walter J. (Joe) Mercer and Joan McNiff Mercer who currently reside in San Diego, Calif.

Jim graduated from Danvers High School and Salem State College where he was an outstanding athlete, a pitcher/firstbaseman in baseball, and a goalie in hockey.

Following his graduation, he held several supervisory positions in local businesses. Jim was an avid Boston sports fan. He also loved to fish, wearing his #5 Dale Earnhart hat while listening to 80’s rock hits, his favorite being Rush.

He was also active with his Uncle Jimmy in the local chapter of Justice for Lefties. He is survived by his brother, Joseph Mercer of Lynn; niece and godchild, Ashley Mercer; and Ashley’s mother, Susan Zangari, who were all very supportive and of immense comfort to him during his illness. He is also survived by his loving family in California - sister, Christine Mercer Vieira, her husband, Ze, and their children, Zach and Jessica Vieira. Jim also leaves behind his niece and nephews from New Jersey, Matthew, Michael and Marissa Mercer; and was predeceased by his brother, Mark Mercer. Private memorial services are being arranged.