Marilyn Jane Howard

Jane, as she was called by her family and friends, was born March 11, 1949 to Raymond and Lucille Mercer.

Jane was a Christian and attended House of the Lord Church where her brother, Lynn, was the pastor when her health allowed.

She was a loving daughter, mother, grandmother, aunt, and sister. She cared deeply and loved intensely those around her. She had a huge heart and went out of her way to help those in need. She has been “mom” to many as children were her favorite people in the world. She often provided a home for many who needed a safe place and selflessly gave to anyone who needed help.

Survivors include three sons: Bryon Trantham, Richard Trantham, and Nathan Howard; two daughters-in-law: Kim Trantham and April Howard; four grandsons: Brent Trantham, Heath Trantham, Joseph Howard, and Issac Howard; three granddaughters: Emily Trantham, Tiffany Howard, and Amber Trantham; three siblings: Lynn Mercer, Linda Reaves, and Shirley Ricker; sister-in-law: Dorothy Mercer; and several nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and special friends at Amedisys Home Health Care and Hospice Team.

She was preceded in death by her mother: Lucille Melton; her father: Raymond Mercer; two sisters: Louise Hensley and Diane Kirkpatrick; and one brother: Don Mercer.

The family will receive friends from 1pm-2pm Tuesday at House of the Lord Church.

Following visitation, the funeral service will be held at 2pm at the House of the Lord Church, 60 Lord’s Lane off the Old Asheville Highway. Rev. Lynn Mercer and Rev. Kent Aiken will officiate.

Interment will follow in Gethsemane Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, it was Jane’s wish that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1942; or any children’s charity of your choice.