Obituaries

Mercedes Isabel (Anderson) Sadler, 87

March 16, 2024

Mercedes Isabel (Anderson) Sadler, 87, of Lancaster, and formerly of Philadelphia, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on March 16, 2024. Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Maurice and Marjorie (Smith) Anderson.

Mercedes, also known as “Merce”, was a graduate of West Chester University in 1959 and obtained a bachelor’s degree in 2.5 years. She was a hardworking, independent, single mother that worked multiple jobs to support herself and her two children through school. Merce was a proud and devoted kindergarten teacher for almost 35 years at Martha Washington Elementary School in Philadelphia and retired in June of 1993. She was dedicated to changing the lives of her students and all who she came in contact with.

Merce was also the daughter of a founding member of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., was a lifetime member of PSERS, and was a very active member of her church, The African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas. She was a member of the Chancel Choir and loved to sing, enjoyed classical music, reading, being with her family and friends, was the family historian, and will be affectionately remembered for her Christmas sugar cookies and deep-dish apple pie.

Mercedes is survived by her two children: Therese Seay (Geoffrey) and Keith Sadler (Idanisis); brother, Burnside Anderson, III (Rose Marie); 11 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, a beloved niece and nephew, numerous cousins, and several life-long friends.

Family and friends are invited to gather from 10-11 AM on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at The African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas, 6361 Lancaster Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19151. A memorial service will begin at 11 AM. Flowers are accepted, and donations in Merce’s memory can be made to the Chancel Choir at AECST.

April 16th, 2024 11AM from Charles F. Snyder Funeral Homes on Vimeo.

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Condolences to the Family

May 12, 2024

I was so sad to hear of Miss. Mercedes passing! I met her at Providence Place when my dad was living there. She was such a sweet lady! I got to talk with her more when they took a lunch trip to Olive Garden, as I tug along with my dad. As my dad progressed in his Parkinson’s, Miss Mercedes would always ask how he was doing and always offered a kind word and a prayer. My dad passed on 2/29/24 and actually I actually spoke with her on my way out from Providence, she offered her condolences and we spoke a little about herself and how she was feeling. So sorry for your loss, she was a special lady. Paula Rupert

April 15, 2024

I sent many happy days at Mrs Sadler’s house on Christian St. playing with Terry. She was always a beautiful, kind lady. Condolences to the family.
Shelly Jennings Morris

March 21, 2024

Ms Mercedes is one of the most beautiful souls I have ever met, I could talk to her about anything, she never pulled any punches with me and I always appreciated that. My life is so much richer for having the privilege of being her friend, I will miss her dearly and keep her in my heart always. Fly high, my lovley, rest in paradise.
Patricia Watkins

March 21, 2024

TO THE FAMILY I SEND HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES. SHE WILL BE REMEMBERED FONDLY BY ALL WHO KNEW HER.
SADLY,
ELIZABETH (BETTY) TRULEAR

March 21, 2024

So sorry to hear that your mom passed. So wanted to plan a reunion for the teachers at Martha Washington. They were such an inspiration, such amazing women. She was a pillar of strength and faith. We had a connection that always kept us together. We used to sit on the porch, and she shared some amazing stories with me that gave me such pride and strength to carry on in my life. I was so honored to have her sing at my wedding. Then to be my mentor while student teaching in her classroom was amazing to see as an adult in the classroom. She commanded your attention with so much love. Prior to her moving with you, I would see her at her church because she was on the choir and always sang for the repasses, and I used to work many of them. So she was always nearby. Her light was a beacon for many of us, and I thank God for having had her be an important part of who I am today!
Leatrice Hayward

March 20, 2024

My condolences and prayers to the family.
HOLLY SIMPSON

March 20, 2024

My condolences to you and your family. Sincerely, Michelle Summers

March 20, 2024

Mrs.Sadler was a beauty externally and internally. Her personality was always so quiet. She was a presence on the 6200 block of Christian Street. She is smiling with her Mom and Dad now.
Condolences to her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Cookie Rice

March 20, 2024

My prayers to the family. She will truly be missed by all that knew her. Sincerely Merlene Lambert

Visitation: Tuesday, April 16, 2024; 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM; The African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas; 6361 Lancaster Ave; Philadelphia, PA 19151
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Services: Tuesday, April 16, 2024; 11:00 AM; The African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas; 6361 Lancaster Ave; Philadelphia, PA 19151
Map and Directions: Get Maps and Directions >