Mercedes A. Hunter, born on November 28, 1938, in Holyoke, MA, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2025, at the age of 86. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a cherished member of her community.

Mercedes was predeceased by her beloved husband, William R. Hunter, in 1976, her mother and father Rosemary Friel and William Friel, her siblings Rosemary Lynch, Carol Syrek, and William Friel, as well as her brothers-in-law William Lynch, Henry Syrek and Thomas Hunter, and sisters-in-law Barbara Hunter and Alice Friel. She is survived by her loving children, Patty Hunter and her partner Dan Long of Belchertown, Sue Hunter of Belchertown, and William "Bill" Hunter Jr. of Amherst. Her legacy continues with her grandchildren, Kyle Mann and Kelsey Robinson, along with her great-grandson, Cayden Mann, and many nieces and nephews, all of whom she cherished very much.

Mercedes and William’s love story began during his military service, a bond that was fostered through heartfelt letters, initiated at the encouragement of her dear friend Barbara, who would eventually become her sister-in-law. Soon, their love and friendship blossomed into a beautiful marriage and family. Mercedes had a nurturing spirit, dedicating her life to being a loving homemaker while raising her children. Later in life, she worked as a housekeeper in various homes throughout the South Hadley and Holyoke areas. She had a passion for sewing and decorating, often handcrafting beautiful curtains and delightful holiday outfits for her children, as well as singing and dancing along to country music.  

The family would like to thank the staff at Farren Care Center of Turners Falls, MA, and the staff at Mission Care in Holyoke, MA for the compassionate care they provided, as well as the hospice staff for their time and comfort they gave to Mercedes in her final days.

Mercedes A. Hunter will be lovingly remembered as a compassionate person who loved and adored her children and touched the lives of many. A graveside service to honor her life will be held on Friday, May 16th, at 10:00am in Mater Dolorosa Cemetery located at 152 Pittroff Ave. South Hadley, MA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Mercedes' memory to the American Heart Association.