Michael Mercier Jr.

Mike Raymond Mercier Jr, 46, born in Rutland, VT, passed away on August 14, 2023. Mike was a loving husband to Kelly of 21 years, a devoted father to Alexander (16) and Matthew (12), and a cherished son to Michael Sr. (Charity). He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

Mike was preceded in death by his mother, Marsha Mercier, and grandparents, John and Alice Bright and Alfred and Mary Jane Mercier.

Mike was the embodiment of loyalty. He served in the Army and Army National Guard from 1995 to 2001 and from 2003 until his passing in 2023. His military service as a helicopter mechanic was a significant part of his life, and he proudly dedicated himself to his country.

Beyond his military service, Mike had a passion for nature. Grounded in his Boy Scout participation and leadership, he loved hiking and jogging in the great outdoors, often coming home with something found. The annual fishing charters on Ocracoke with Alexander and Matthew were legendary. His sense of humor was unmatched, and he always had a quick pun to add to a conversation. Although his music taste and knowledge of pop culture stopped in 1995, it was one of his endearing quirks.

In his spare time, Mike was a founding board member and curator of the Camp Butner Museum. He also served as an authenticity advisor for Tom Clancy video games. His dedication to preserving history and ensuring accuracy was commendable. A lifetime collector of coins, swords, and baseball memorabilia: Mike had too many interests and hobbies to fit in with this description of his short life.

Professionally, Mike worked as a Facilities Operation Specialist at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. He was known for his exceptional skills and commitment to his work.

A ceremony to honor Mike's life will be held at 11 am on Friday, August 25, 2023, at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home in Cary, NC. Friends, family, and all those who wish to pay their respects are invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to two organizations that were close to Mike's heart; Camp Butner Museum in c/o Camp Butner Society, P.O. Box 412, Butner,N.C. 27509 which he tirelessly supported or The Desmoid Tumor Research Foundation (DTRF), c/o Clifton Larson Allen LLP, 50 Tice Blvd, Suite 175, Woodcliff, NJ 07677, a cause that the Mercier family is passionate about.

Mike’s legacy of loyalty, dedication, and love will forever be remembered by those whose lives he touched. He will be greatly missed, and his memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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