James C. "Jim" Mercer Jr

James (Jim) Clair Mercer, Jr died May 27, 2015 at his home in Winterville, Georgia. He was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee on October 12, 1939 to James C. and Judy Vosburg Mercer.

Jim was a 1957 graduate of McDonough High School, McDonough, Georgia. He earned a degree from the University of Georgia in 1963 where he was a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. While proudly serving his country in the National Guard, he was stationed in San Antonio, Texas, where he met the former Jo Ellen Bell. They were married in Brownwood, Texas in 1963 and established their home in McDonough. Jim became a partner in the family farm equipment business and later launched a career as an independent auctioneer for major farm and industrial equipment auction companies across the Sunbelt and the Midwest.

Jim relocated to Winterville, GA in the early 1980s and wholeheartedly dedicated himself to his new community. During his tenure as Mayor of Winterville from 1998 until 2012, he led successful efforts to restore historic buildings, improve the city's infrastructure, develop public park spaces, and ensure that the city operated on a sound financial basis. Jim believed deeply in community involvement and shared his leadership ability in numerous civic and governmental areas. Jim was honored to be named a member of the Board of Directors for the The Commercial Bank in 2008 and served as Chairman of the Board since 2012.

Jim is survived by Jo as well as his son, James (Jay) C. Mercer, III and daughter, Ellen Mercer Foster and husband Bert; grandchildren, Ellie Mercer, Jamie Mercer, Callan Foster, and Alex Foster, all of McDonough, Georgia. He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Jackie and Beverly Mercer of McDonough, GA; sister-in-law, Patricia Bell Parker and husband Skip, of Baird, Texas. Extended family includes Jocelyn Paxson and children; nephews Chase Mercer, Clay Mercer, and Michael Parker; niece LeAnna Goodwin; several cousins and their families.

No memorial service is planned, however, friends are invited to celebrate Jim's life during an informal visitation with the family between 3 and 5 PM on Sunday, May 31 at the Winterville Depot, 101 Marigold Lane, Winterville, GA 30683. As Mayor, Jim was a strong supporter of the City's Public Safety personnel, believing that the safety of the town's citizens was an important responsibility of elected leadership. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Winterville Volunteer Fire Department, care of City Hall, P O Box 306, Winterville, GA 30683, for the purchase of essential safety equipment for department members.

Lord & Stephens East is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com