A Life Reflection

Mercedes Elizabeth Brinson was born September 22, 1936 in Cleveland, Ohio.  Although she was the only child of Helen and Joseph Brinson, she grew up surrounded by many aunts, uncles and first cousins who she bonded with as brothers and sisters.  She was baptized in the Catholic faith as a baby and growing up under the direct instruction of her mother and aunts, attended mass every Sunday and holy day of obligation.  As a young adult, she continued to grow up in her Catholic faith but would sometimes sneak off to Temple Baptist Church in the evening to hear some good old gospel music.
Mercedes attended Our Lady of Blessed Sacrament elementary school followed by Notre Dame high school on Ansel Road.  After graduating high school she became a licensed beautician.  The majority of her career was spent servicing her clients at "The Hairlines".  She worked there for over forty years and became well known for her outstanding ability in hair coloring and relaxing shampoos.  She finally retired at the age of eighty.
It was easy for Mercedes to have a good time.  All she needed was Budweiser, barbeque and a deck of cards.  Her Bid Whist skills were unmatched.  Her favorite day was Sunday.  She would plan to go to church (as long as it wasn't raining) at Saint Agnes- Our Lady of Fatima Church, followed by a good Sunday dinner and watch the Browns or Cavs on television.....but she was always ready to hit an afternoon church service at Original Harvest Missionary Baptist Church or anywhere the Greater Cleveland Choral Chapter may have been singing.

Her most joyful times were spent with her family. Mercedes had two daughters, Terrie (Danny) and Melissa. She was blessed with five grandchildren, Jonathan (who preceded her in death), Joshua, Jasmine, Lil Romero and Alaya. She was super blessed to have 3 great grandchildren, Dominic, McKenzie and Jayveon—-with one more on the way. She also forever loved her extended McElroy tribe and Fatima church family.
On September 13, 2026, Mercedes was admitted to Hillcrest Hospital and diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. She celebrated her 90th birthday with a host of family and friends in a hospital room transformed into a party center. She smiled all day long.
On October 8, 2026 at 5am, Mercedes entered into eternal rest with God. Entering His presence- Seeing Him face to face. She has been reunited with her great grandmother, Malissa, her mom, dad, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and grandson who have died in Christ.
She was given her crown of glory and long white robe. She waits to see those of us who remain and her spirit lives on.

Visitation Thursday, October 15, 2026 6pm-7pm at funeral home. Funeral Service Friday, October 16, 2026 6pm at St. Agnes Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, 6800 Lexington Ave.