Allen J. Mercer

NASHVILLE, Ill. - Allen J. Mercer, 73, formerly of Sikeston, Mo., died Aug. 27, 2007, at his home of cancer.

He was born April 27, 1934, in Wardell, Mo., son of Allen and Ruby Velma Mercer. He was a veteran of the Air Force, serving as a crew member on a B-36 bomber. After serving in the Air Force, he opened an auto body repair shop with his brother, Jack. He also taught auto body repair at the Vo-Tech school in Sikeston for several years. After teaching, he opened his own business, Mercer Mustangs. After retiring, he continued working, delivering flowers for Midway Wholesale Florist.

On March 21, 1957, he married Alma Ruth Duncan, who survives of the home.

Survivors include: a daughter and son-in-law, Tammy and Thomas Kellerman, of Nashville; a son and daughter-in-law, Michael G. and Terri Hanks, of Sedalia; a sister, Jolene Tyrone of Sikeston; one brother-in-law, Richard Duncan; and five grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Jack Mercer.

A memorial service will be held from 1-3 p.m. Saturday at Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, 194 S. Interstate Drive in Sikeston.