Southbridge: Mercedes Aponte Merced, 82, of Jennison St., passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 15th, after a long illness.

Her husband of 46 years, Heriberto Merced, passed away in 2006, followed by her son, George Merced, in 2018.

Mercedes leaves a son, Alberto Merced of Southbridge; her four daughters, Lourdes Veber and her husband Glen of Southbridge, Yolanda Hatzidis and her late husband Harry of Southbridge, Nancy Jones and her husband Todd of Southbridge and Wanda Merced of Southbridge; her brother, Hermogenes Aponte of Orocovis, Puerto Rico; and her six grandchildren, Alexander Veber and his wife Jennie, Sarah Veber, Jacob Veber, Noah Jones, Christopher Merced and Sophia Hatzidis.  She was predeceased by her brother, Pedro Alicea and her two sisters, Adelaida Aponte and Georgina Rojas.  Mercedes was born in Orocovis, Puerto Rico the daughter of the late Maria Aponte.

Mercedes worked at the American Optical Co. in Southbridge for 45 years, retiring many years ago.  She was a longtime devoted member of St. Mary's Parish in Southbridge.

Mercedes warm presence and caring nature left an undeniable mark on all who knew her. Her ability to provide comfort and love made her the best "Mama", a role she embraced wholeheartedly.  Mercedes' love for her family was unparalleled, expressing this through the time she spent with them, the care she provided, and the joy she found in life's simple pleasures.  Mercedes' passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her, but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us.  Her laughter, her love of life, and her ability to make everyone feel loved will be sorely missed but never forgotten.

A funeral Mass for Mercedes will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 22nd, at 11:00am in St. Mary's Church of the St. John Paul II Parish, 263 Hamilton St., Southbridge.  Burial will be private.  There are no calling hours.

The Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, is directing arrangements.