Harriett Nelson Mercer, age 85, of Springfield, joined the Church Triumphant on December 28th in the early morning. She died peacefully in her sleep while in the Memory Care Unit at Township Senior Living.

Harriett was born in Kearney, Nebraska, in 1935, to Anders and Lois Nelson. She graduated from high school in Vancouver, WA. She was a flight attendant for United Airlines based out of Los Angeles and always had a quick story of her adventures as a stewardess. She married The Rev. Jim Mercer and took on the role of "pastor's wife" with a strong faith and much grace. She was married to Jim for 51 years before he died in 2009.

Harriett's career for over 20 years was serving the John Calvin Presbytery as the Administrative Assistant. She shared her faith, time, and creative energy to over 70 churches.

Harriett had several loves. She loved music. She sang in the Sweet Adelines for a number of years. She also sang in the Westminster Presbyterian Church Choir, and her kids remember her leading the long family car trips with silly songs and rounds. When she would meet someone for the first time, she would share her name, "Harriett" and then start singing the song, "Harriet by Red Foley." (you can look that up on YouTube.)

She loved to travel and to take her family on fun adventures. She took great pride in organizing Mission Bus Trips for members of John Calvin Presbytery to see missions all over the United States. She left a legacy and many memories with those trips.

She loved her family. She is survived by her four children, John and wife, Angela, Mercer; Matthew and wife, Marilyn, Mercer; Julie Mercer; Anders and wife, Amy, Mercer. Harriett had a gift and a special love for all children. And her life was blessed with 12 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews whom she loved greatly.

The family would like to thank the staff at Township Senior Living for all their wonderful love and care they gave to Harriett this last year.

Due to the pandemic, the family is having a private service on January 1st, 2021, at 11:30 am, officiated by The Rev. Becky Schwandt. You are invited to join virtually through Facebook Live on the page of Ozark Presbyterian Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a memorial donation to Westminster Presbyterian Church. And because Harriett loved to sing, sing a song loud and clear! Online condolences may be made at www.gormanscharpf.com.