Obituary: Ernest Eldon Mercer
Ernest Eldon “Ernie” Mercer, age 85, of Kellerton, Iowa, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026, at Mount Ayr Health Care. He lived a life grounded in faith, family, and a deep love for the land he farmed for more than sixty years.
Ernie was born on March 10, 1940, to Clarence Ernest Mercer and Lela Evada (Johnson) Mercer. He grew up in a close knit family and carried with him the values of hard work, humility, and kindness. He graduated from Kellerton High School in 1958 and attended two years of college at Northwest Missouri State College.
In 1962, Ernie joined the United States Army, serving as a Military Policeman at Fort Monroe, Virginia — the military headquarters at the time. His service was a source of pride throughout his life.
On January 20, 1963, during his time in the Army, Ernie married Judith Ann Keplinger at the Ellston United Methodist Church. After completing his military duty, Ernie and Judy moved to Des Moines, where he worked at American Public Insurance for a year as they saved to pursue their dream of farming.
In 1965, they purchased a farm that would become their lifelong home. Ernie devoted himself wholeheartedly to the land, planting soybeans, corn, and oats, and raising dairy cattle, pigs, beef cattle, chickens, horses, sheep, dogs, and cats. His dedication to farming was evident in every field he tended and every animal he cared for.
Throughout the years, they welcomed three children: Sandra Lynn, Mark Eric, and Jason Ray. Ernie found his greatest joy in spending time with his family. His grandchildren came later in his life and brought him immeasurable pride and happiness.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy (Keplinger) Mercer of Kellerton, IA; his daughter, Sandy (Mercer) Fairbanks and husband Carter Fairbanks of Bullhead City, AZ; his son, Mark Mercer of West Des Moines, IA; his son, Jason Mercer and wife Tega (Akpede) Mercer, along with grandchildren Grant and Nella Mercer of Wake Forest, NC; his sister, Donna (Mercer) Payton of Lamoni, IA; his sister, Dola (Mercer) Doser and husband Raymond Doser of Lovilla, IA; and his sister-in-law, Janet (Huff) Mercer of Mount Ayr, IA.
Ernie was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Lela Mercer; his brother Darrel Mercer and Darrel’s wives Mary Ann (Oshell) and Lucille (Clark); his brother Donald Mercer; his brother-in-law Glenn Payton; his father and mother-in-law Harold and Neva (Gilbert) Keplinger; his brother-in-law Gary Keplinger; and his nephew Rodney Doser.
Ernie leaves behind a legacy of love, integrity, and perseverance. His life’s work — his family, his service, and his farm — stands as a testament to a man who lived with purpose and heart. His memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved him.
Ernie has been laid to rest in Rose Hill Cemetery in Mount Ayr. A Celebration of Life will be held in March. The service will be posted when finalized. Memorials are to the Kellerton Community Center. Armstrong Funeral Home, in Mount Ayr, is in charge of the arrangements.
