It is with great sadness that we must inform you that Buddy passed away shortly after midnight on June 16, 2025. He was a good man and will be greatly missed. Thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.

This fundraiser is being organized and managed by Carol Yoakley, Phyllis Hillis, Benita Albert and Sandy Christen.

Buddy (Clark) Mercer was a custodian at Oak Ridge High School from 1978 to 2011. When Buddy was first introduced to the faculty at Oak Ridge High school he stated “I’ll do the best I can to help you.” That statement reflected the approach that he had with the daily challenges and duties as head custodian, in his life, and in interactions with others. After retiring from his custodial duties, Buddy served as a handyman/Jack-of-all-trades for friends and members of the community.

Recently, Buddy has begun treatment for pancreatic cancer. His wife Linda who was bedridden in home-hospice care, very recently passed away. He shares financial responsibilities for his granddaughter and two great-granddaughters who live in their home with them.

We are creating this Go-Fund-Me for Buddy and his family to help them pay their many bills as they go through this devastating time.