1938-2026
Gerald Edwin Mercer, known as JuJu to his grandchildren, age 87, a devoted pharmacist, public servant, and respected member of the Dermott community, passed away February 17, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service, professionalism, and quiet generosity.
He was born July 23, 1938, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, to the late Carl Clinton Mercer and Lois Hall Mercer. He graduated from Crossett High School in 1956 and went on to pursue higher education with determination and purpose. He graduated from Southern Arkansas University in 1962. He married Myra Watson on July 20 of that same year. After they married, they relocated to Monroe, Louisiana, where he continued his studies at Northeast Louisiana University where he earned his pharmacy degree in 1966. After graduation, they purchased Perry Drug in Dermott, Arkansas. It was there they served the community for nearly four decades.
While completing his education, Gerald demonstrated an early commitment to serving others. He volunteered his time and skills at Saint Francis Hospital in Monroe and later at St. Mary’s Hospital in Dermott, working without pay to gain experience and contribute to patient care. His dedication to the medical field and his community would remain a defining characteristic throughout his life. He became a cornerstone of local healthcare, serving as a pharmacist for Dermott Memorial Hospital from its opening until its closure. Additionally, Gerald was part owner of Professional Pharmacy Services, Inc., further extending his influence in regional pharmacy services.
Gerald’s commitment to community service extended far beyond his profession. He served two terms as Justice of the Peace and was a dedicated member of the Chamber of Commerce. He also contributed 24 years of leadership as a board member of Mainline Health Systems, helping guide and strengthen healthcare access for the community he loved.
Proudly serving his country and state, Gerald spent seven years in the Arkansas National Guard as a tank commander. His sense of duty and discipline carried through all aspects of his life. He loved to fish and hunt for quail, duck, and pheasant.
He was a member of Dermott Baptist Church where he served as a deacon, a Sunday School teacher, and as a member of the choir. On mission trips to Honduras, he used his pharmaceutical training as a member of the medical team. Gerald demonstrated his compassion for the Hispanic community by providing free Bibles in Spanish, rides to and from church, and a ready friend to sit with at the services.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Myra, of 63 years, and his little sister, Betty Mercer Deal. He is survived by his children, Vikki Hennington (Johnny) of Dermott, formerly of Crossett, and Shaun Mercer (Wendy) of Hillsboro, Oregon. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Hayden Henington (Ashley), Dakota Mercer, Ginna Moffet (Brock), Indiana Mercer, and Allen Mercer, seven great-grandchildren, and his niece, Angie Meadows of Crossett. He is also survived by Sherron Days (his Robo-Carwash), who became part of the family by giving her unending care and love.
Visitation will be held, Friday, February 20, 2026 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at Griffin-Culpepper Funeral Chapel in McGehee, Arkansas. Funeral Services will be Saturday, February, 21, 2026 at 1:00 pm at Griffin-Culpepper Funeral Chapel with Rev. Tony Campanga officiating. Interment will follow at Dermott Cemetery. Family request all flower order be purchased through Lake Village flower.
