Samuel Phillips Mercer, affectionally called Sammy, departed for his heavenly home on April 15, 2025. He accepted Christ as his savior with the testimony that his relationship with God turned his life around. He was a member of Rhema Christian Center where he loved the teaching of the word and the gospel music.

Sammy was born in Washington, DC, on November 9, 1938. He was the second of Samuel and Dora (Washington) Mercer’s five children, and their oldest son. He married Joyclyn (Joyce) Artis on September 25, 1966. The love of his life, they shared 59 years and a son, Shannon.

Sammy attended District of Columbia Public Schools and graduated from Cardozo High School. He also completed tutoring certification classes to help children improve their reading skills.

An extraordinarily talented artist, Sammy’s work was recognized by renowned artist Georgette Powell of the DC Endowment of the Arts. Impressed by his innate talent, she introduced him to the art community, leading to his work being displayed in myriad exhibits across DC and Maryland.

Sammy achieved his dream of owning a studio when he opened “Sammy’s Studio” in the Takoma Park “A Salon” building. A phenomenal accomplishment, he also used the space to teach art classes to community children. He mastered the art of portrait framing, consequently expanding his artistic talents and technical capabilities. His art is/was proudly displayed in different museums, libraries, studios and homes in DC and Maryland. Sammy’s artistic legacy will live on through his remarkable artwork.

Sammy enjoyed going to family events and listening to and studying jazz. He could also sing with old friends describing him as a crooner. Adored by his siblings, Sammy loved them unconditionally. He was extremely supportive of family and friends, and they could rely on him to be by their side during good times and times of need.

Sammy was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Dora Mercer, sister, Gloria Mitchell and eldest son, Derek Mercer. Left to cherish Sammy’s memory are his loving wife, Joyclyn; sons, Joseph and Shannon (Deirdre) Mercer; daughter-in-law, Deirdre Mercer; stepdaughter, Robin Young; sister, MaryAnn Mercer Curtis; brothers, Bernard and Arrian Mercer; nieces, Daphne Hawkins, Erica Walker (James) and Tiffany Mitchell; nephews, Kevin, Eric, James and Arrian “Bain” Mercer; and other great nieces, nephews, other loving relatives and friends.