It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Mercedes Ann Hatter, 85, who passed away on June 14, 2026, after a courageous battle with Parkinson's.
Born September 28, 1940, in Jenkins Township, Greater Pittston area of Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. Merce attended SUNY Cortland. She lived a beautiful full life characterized by fierce devotion to her family and a deep passion for the arts. She was a gifted artist, known for her hand-painted works and ceramics. Merce taught ceramics at the IBM Country Club for 10 years and successfully owned and operated two businesses: Top Hatter Ceramics and The Olde Railway Station gift shop, where she proudly showcased her creations.
Beyond her art, her family was her greatest joy. Merce was an unwavering supporter of her daughters, grandchildren and great grandchild, dedicating countless hours to cheering them on—from freezing in New England hockey rinks to enduring summer heat at baseball and softball diamonds and swim meets. She also treasured family vacations at Bethany Beach and the St. Lawrence River, surrounded by her loved ones. She always had at least one grandchild in tow while feeding another one or chasing one down the beach. Her family was her life.
She was predeceased by the love of her life and husband of 57 years, Robert Harold Hatter; her parents, Joseph and Evelyn Scherer; and her in-laws, Harold and Mary Hatter.
Merce leaves behind a legacy of love and is survived by:
Daughters: Renee Hook (Doug) of New Milford, CT, and Kimberly Baron (John) of Endwell, NY.
Grandchildren: Joshua Hook, Jena Hook, Avery Hook, Zachery Hook, John Scott Baron, and Jessica Baron.
Great-Grandchild: Sophie Marie Baron.
Sisters-in-law: Roberta Macarchick, Karen Lacomis, and Linda Rava, whom she loved as her own sisters.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Most Holy Rosary Church in Maine NY on Tuesday, June 16th, 2026 at 10:00AM. Entombment will follow in Riverhurst Cemetery, Endwell NY. At the request of the family there will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made in Merce’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude PL. Memphis, TN 38105-9959.