Mercedes affectionately known as Sadie, went home to be with the Lord on February 22, 2024.

Mercedes Ranesie' Taylor-Williams entered this world on April 13, 1993, a cherished gift to Angela Pinkston-Taylor and Jerome Taylor, in Houston, Texas.

She attended school at Will Rogers Elementary in Houston, TX, Rogers Middle School, Sablatura Middle School, Pearland Jr. High West, Pearland High School in Pearland, TX, Stephen F. Austin University in Nacogdoches, TX, and The College of Health Care Programs in Houston, TX.  Mercedes loved God and dedicated her life to Jesus Christ by water baptism in 2002.  She participated in the church choir at Greater St. Matthews Baptist Church under the Dr. Gusta Booker, Jr. and was a part of the praise dance team at Pearland Christian Community Church under Bishop Gene A. Moore, Sr.

Mercedes was vibrant and won several track medals from the age of 8 to the age of 15 as a part of the Texas Storm track team.  As a spirited performer, she displayed her talents as part of the drill team and cheerleading squad for the Sagemont Cowgirls.  Desiring to enjoy more enriching life experiences, and cultural exchanges, as a youth she joined the Girl Scouts of America program.  This involvement introduced her to community service and instilled the drive for success.  Her love for dance and cheer continued as she also became part of the cheer team at Pearland High School, igniting the crowd with her infectious enthusiasm.  Being a multi-talented individual and having a love for athletics, she also showed incredible prowess on the basketball court.  Her academic and athletic achievements culminated into graduation, and she earned her diploma in 2011 from Pearland high school.

As she grew into young adulthood, she met Joseph Williams.  They embarked on a sacred union, intertwining their lives in love and commitment. This blessed union blossomed with the arrival of two radiant daughters, Jaaliyah and Makiah Williams.

Despite grappling with illness, Mercedes remained steadfast in her resolve to savor every precious moment alongside her cherished daughters. Her unyielding support and wholehearted dedication to her family exemplify the epitome of selflessness.  She didn't allow illness to prevent her from enjoying a fulfilling life with her children. She would make sure that they knew she was 100 % behind them in all their endeavors.  She took pride in their extracurricular activities, just as her mother had lovingly done for her.  She was front and center as she cheered them on at every track meet.

Mercedes had so many aspirations and dreams and ardently pursued the fulfillment of them. While employed as a technician at AT&T, she confronted formidable health challenges that necessitated an adjustment to her professional and educational endeavors, yet her resilient spirit remained undaunted.

She endured a long battle with heart failure, but never gave up hope.  She was given a new chance at life when God blessed her with a successful heart transplant on June 11, 2021.  She lived every moment as if it were her last; maximizing every moment and spreading joy wherever she went.  After her heart transplant, she realized the importance of organ donorship and became an advocate.  Her voice amplified the need for donors and public awareness.

Mercedes had a smile that would light up any room.  She was an introvert with an extroverted personality, being that she was witty and never short on words. Her comeback game (with smart words) was strong and sure to leave everyone in stitches from the laughter! She loved traveling and a good television show (including ratchet T.V.)  When those shows were off, a good scary movie would suffice. Much like her mother, you could count on her to keep you updated on world events and news. You can say that they were twins in looks and personality.

Mercedes is preceded in death by her grandfather, John Butler.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her mother Angela Pinkston-Taylor; her father Jerome Taylor; husband Joseph Williams; her daughters Jaaliyah and Makiah Williams; her siblings Justin Pinkston (Taylor), Javion Taylor, Robbie Taylor, and Sade Adams.  Grandparents: Juanita Pinkston, Robbie Butler, Walter and Alice Pinkston, Father in-law Joseph Williams, Mother in-law Jacqueline Williams, Godfather Reginald Veal, Godmother Vonnicia Veal and a host of devoted aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, other family, and friends.