Ellen Robertson Mercer

Ellen Robertson Mercer, October 12, 1945 - December 10, 2025, was born in Roanoke, VA, with her twin brother, Donald Reed Robertson, to parents Millard Reed Robertson and Gladys Lotts Robertson. She attended Cave Spring High School (Roanoke, VA), Florida Southern College (Lakeland, FL), and Georgetown University (Washington, DC), where she received her master’s degree. After tours in Pakse (Laos) and Taipei (Taiwan) working for the CIA, she moved to the private sector and worked for the American Psychiatric Association for 25 years. In that role, she had the opportunity to work in more than 35 countries, which she considered the opportunity of a lifetime.

Per her wishes, all services are private. A private interment will take place at Sherwood Memorial Park in Salem, VA.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of the following causes that Ellen cared for deeply:

Hargrave Military Academy, Chatham, Virginia, for the Donald Reed Robertson Scholarship Fund (https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/54600/donations/new - select “Other” designation and write in “Robertson Scholarship Fund”)

Humane Rescue Alliance, Washington, DC (https://humanerescuealliance.org/donate)

Saint Francis Service Dogs, Roanoke, VA (https://saintfrancisdogs.org/)

Online condolences may be expressed by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.