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It is with deep sorrow and abiding love that we announce the passing of Mercedes Alonso Lucas, our beloved matriarch, cherished grandmother, and devoted friend. She left us peacefully on May 29th at the age of 97.
Born to Spanish immigrants who fled Spain and found refuge in Moundsville, West Virginia, arriving at Ellis Island on January 6, 1920, Mercedes grew up on the close-knit "Spanish Row," proudly carrying her family roots in everything she did, always weaving her heritage into the fabric of her life.
A breast cancer survivor, Mercedes faced every challenge with strength and grace. Her unwavering love for her family, especially her grandchildren, was her greatest joy. She was never without a shirt that showcased her grandchildren's smiling faces -- a testament to her boundless pride in them.
For many years, Mercedes worked as a secretary at Central Elementary School, where she was known for her kindness and dedication to the students and staff. She was devoted to improving the lives of all the students she interacted with, many of whom remained in contact with her during her retirement years.
Mercedes especially loved spending time with her devoted daughter, Mary Ellen, who cared for her for many years with loyalty and love. The two of them were inseparable, frequently visiting their favorite restaurants and shopping as a duo, sharing countless cherished memories along the way.
In her downtime, Mercedes enjoyed the simple pleasures that made her feel at home: a cold Miller Lite, dancing, a lively game of canasta with her dear friends, and spirited discussions about politics. She never missed an opportunity to share her dislike for the current president.
Her home was always a gathering place for family and friends, where love, laughter, and the scent of good food were ever- present. Mercedes taught us the importance of staying close to our roots and of holding family near to our hearts.
She is survived by her children Mary Ellen Fluharty, Joe (Mary) Lucas and Debbie Gaughan. Her grandchildren Brian (Margo) Suter, Shawn Fluharty, Melissa Coffield, Chad (Ashley) Lucas, Alicia Lucas, Dawn (Ryan) Green, Kaitlyn Gaughan and ten great-grandchil- dren. She was preceded in death by her parents Jessie and Josephine Alonso, her longtime companion Fred Battistelli, her sisters Mary Henderson, Olga Gravis, Gloria Carr, Josephine Hunter, her brother Joe Alonso and her best friend of many years, Regina Ledbetter.
A celebration of her life will be held privately with family.
Though she is gone, Mercedes's warmth and love will continue to guide us.
We will miss her deeply, but we know she lives on in the hearts of all who loved her.