Deborah Rae Mercer, 69, of Edwardsville, IL., went to be with her Lord and Savior on April 10, 2026. Deborah was born on April 12, 1956, to Glen Daniel and Etta Rae Mercer of Edwardsville.

Deborah was a woman of unwavering faith, known for her courage, positivity, kindness, and trustworthiness. She welcomed everyone with open arms, treating each person she met with genuine respect and equality.

She was a devoted daughter, sister, and aunt who found true joy in caring for others, especially her parents, and her family, and close friends. Deborah was a cherished friend to many, always willing to lend a helping hand or go above and beyond for those she loved. She deeply valued her relationships, nurturing them with thoughtfulness and consistency, and made a special effort to stay connected with her longtime work friends even after retiring.

Deborah’s love for her dogs—Chloe, Wilson, Marlee, and Scooter—was boundless. She treated them as family, showering them with affection and attentive care.

Deborah was an avid supporter of the arts and a remarkably talented artist. Painting came naturally to her, and she was also gifted with a beautiful singing voice. Throughout her life, she sang in high school and church choirs and was a member of the “Solid Rock” singing group in Denver, Colorado. Her passion for the arts continued as she faithfully attended EHS Choral concerts, dramas, and musicals, never missing a performance.

Deborah found peace and joy in nature. She relished her daily walks with friends along the town’s trails—rain or shine, in every season, she was always eager to be outdoors. She especially loved the Watershed Nature Center, often marveling at how the sunlight made the water “sparkle like diamonds” in the morning. Ever observant, she was delighted by the birds and wildlife she encountered, and she cherished her visits to the botanical gardens.

She was preceded in death by her Mom, Etta Rae Mercer, and her niece, Danyele Mercer.

She is survived by her Dad; Glen Daniel Mercer, her siblings; Rick Mercer of IL, Karen (Jerry) Gaccetta of GA, Five Nieces & Nephews; Christie Mercer, Joshua (Stephanie) Mercer, Courtney (Dave) Wilkerson, Shelby (Michael) Young, and D.J. Mercer; thirteen Grand-Nieces/Nephews; Isaiah (Haile) Mercer, Makayla (Chase) Cumins, Alexis, Jocelyn, Lilli and Jaxin Mercer, Brooklyn and Brayden Rudolph, Mia, Sawyer and Cal Young, Wyatt and Layla Wilkerson; And three Great, Great Grand Nieces/Nephews; Imani and Tyla Mercer, and Silias Beckstrom, and many Aunts, Cousins, and Friends.

She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her. A Celebration of Life in Deborah's honor will be held at a later date.

The family is being served by Sunset Hill Funeral Home, 50 Fountain Drive, Glen Carbon, IL, 62034.