Donald Eugene Mercer, Beloved husband, father, brother and friend, was born on March 13, 1945, to Albert Mercer, Sr. and Edith Bond Mercer. He spent his formative years in the Bond family home at 236 N. Mount Street, where he also attended School 100 (his elementary school), located just across the street. Proudly, Donald was among the first students to experience racial integration at Greene Street School for Boys. His educational Journey continued at Booker T. Washington Junior Highschool and culminated at Carver Vocational-Technical High School, where he honed his skills in carpentry.

In 1965, Donald answered the call of duty and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. During his two tours, he earned the rank of sergeant, Class E5, serving as a combat Engineer and Construction Inspector. His military training included Individual Protective Measures, Land Mine Warfare Explosives and Demolitions, and Basic Combat Engineer tactics. After nearly four years, he received an Honorable Discharge, along with numerous commendations, including the Rifle Sharpshooter Badge, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Presidential Unit Citation.

A man of deep faith, Donald embraced the teachings of Christ and was baptized at Hope Chapel Freewill Baptist Church, under the guidance of Elder Robert Branch. Throughout his life, even during periods of illness, he remained dedicated to his faith and community, attending services regularly and engaging with the church through online platforms.

Before his military service, Donald's work journey began as a crew member on the Conowingo Dam reconstruction project. After his return from duty, he spent 27 years with the Mass Transit Administration, successfully serving as a bus driver and Light Rail conductor. He later returned to his passion for carpentry, working as a contract worker for Murphy Enterprises, where he played a vital role in several notable construction projects in Baltimore City, including the Hilton Street Bridge and the Mansion House at Druid Hill Park. In his final role, he contributed as an Industrial Engineer at the Johns Hopkins Hospital until his second retirement.