Benjamin Mercer

Benjamin William Mercer (Ben) was born November 5th 1976 in Dayton Ohio. Survived by (Parents) William Mercer and Laura Mercer, (Sister) Leann Mercer. (Sons) Matthew William Mercer and Jonathan Patrick Mercer. (partner) Ericka Echo.

At an early age, Ben fell in love with sports. He quickly excelled into a football player and basketball player. He played football at Centerville High School for four years and was a captain and leader on the field and as a quarterback. He also excelled in basketball at CHS, and we loved watching him on the court.

After Centerville, he became a UD Flyer. As a member of the football team, he was the quarterback for several years and made his entire family so proud as we watched him do what he loved. Ben graduated with a B.S. in business from the University, later earning his M.B.A. from Purdue University.

After college he married Meredith Zimpfer, a long-time high school friend. Together they had two beautiful children. Matthew and JP. Both of the boys excelled in sports throughout their time at Centerville . Matthew went to the Ohio State Univeristy to be a lacrosse player and graduated with a Finance degree. JP attends The University at Albany, who is a lacrosse player and is starting his journey as a student. Ben could not have been a prouder father.

Coach Mercer, as Ben was known to many, spent countless years mentoring and coaching so many kids through Centerville spanning over 17 years. This was his true passion. Between football and lacrosse this coach guided and mentored more kids than we can count.

Ben’s professional career included various sales positions and concluded with his time in home construction.

May God watch over you. You were truly a bright light. You were loud and proud and when you walked into a room you made us all laugh and pay attention to what you had to say. Your passion for the game and as a father was amazing. You will be missed beyond words.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. in the WESTBROCK FUNERAL HOME-KETTERING, 5980 Bigger Road. A celebration of Ben’s life will begin at 6:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in Coach Ben’s name to the Centerville Elks Lacrosse Team, www.elkslacrosse.org/donate.