Merced Cortez Gary was born August 30, 1991 to Lake Bell and Renee Gary. Merced received his education in Collinsville, IL. He loved playing basketball.

Merced was known for a lot of things, but he will always be remembered for the way he made his family laugh.

Merced lived a wonderful life and was loved and cherished by so many. Those that knew him knew he had a heart of gold.

Merced was the sixth child of eight children. He had a very tight bond with his family. He grew to have his own family (Merced Gary Jr. and Margon Gary) with his fiancé (Jessica Edwards)

Merced was a very spoiled child and always wanted his way. Merced will be missed dearly and will be talked and thought about daily. He was truly a blessing to his family and close friends.

Merced was preceded in death by his grandmother Ardell Lott, and his grandfather Robert Lott Sr.

Merced departed this life on September 13, 2020. He leaves to cherish his memory his mother, Renee Gary; his father, Lake Bell; his children, Merced Gary, Jr. and Margon Gary; his fiancée, Jessica Edwards; his four sisters, Quawana Gary, Jayvona Smith (Isaac Smith), Ellisha Gary and Rosalind Gary; his brothers, Demond Gary, Christopher Watson and Mahlik Gary; aunt, Rosalind Gary; four uncles, Rodney Gary, Robbie Gary, Ricky Lott, and Robert Lott Jr.; two great uncles, Lawrence Gary and Elijah Lott; godmother, Brenda Mason; mother-in-law, Yolanda Edwards; step-father James Johnson, Sr. and a host of step-sisters, step-brothers, nieces, nephews, and cousins.