Connie T. Mercer

Connie Tyrone Mercer passed away peacefully at his home on January 4, 2024, after a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on April 17, 1942, to Ishmael and Norene Mercer. Growing up, Connie attended Stratford High School in Stratford, Oklahoma. Later, he attended East Central University earning both a bachelor’s and master’s degree. He also served in the United States Army Reserves for seven years and was an ordained deacon at First Baptist Church in Stratford. On March 7, 1965, Connie married the love of his life, Billie Dean Walker of Pauls Valley, Oklahoma. They were married for more than 58 years. They made their home in Stratford and had three boys. Connie taught English and Speech at Stratford High School for 30 years before retiring. He loved his students and was known for his interesting storytelling in class. He enjoyed all sports and was the announcer for Stratford home football games for several years. He also coached youth basketball and track teams and chaperoned the Jr/Sr banquets. He was very active in his church and taught Sunday school for several years. Additionally, he served on the Corley Cemetery committee. When not teaching school, attending church or sporting events, you could find him on a tractor or working cattle. He loved being outside and working on the farm. In the summer, he and his boys would harvest and store hay for the winter. He was an honest, hardworking man with great integrity.

Connie was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings, Garmon, Janice, Jerry, and Larry.

He is survived by his loving wife, Billie; one brother, Deverle (June) of Duncanville, Texas; three sons, Brett of Coweta, Oklahoma, Bart (Sara) of Norman, Oklahoma, and Clint (Joy) of Edmond, Oklahoma; eight grandchildren, Dylan, Faith, Ashley, Alexxia, Allyson, Amanda, Cale and Jak; as well as two great-grandchildren, Aryah and Wesley.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at First Baptist Church of Stratford, Oklahoma. Burial followed in Corley Cemetery under the direction of DeArman/Pickard Funeral Home, Stratford.