Maryanne Mercanti
Maryanne Mercanti RN, age 94 of Drexel Hill, previously a longtime resident of Collingdale, passed away peacefully with loved ones at her side on October 20, 2017. The daughter of Italian immigrants, she graduated with a nursing degree from Philadelphia General Hospital in 1945.
Upon graduation, Maryanne began her nursing career as a public health nurse. Her territory consisted of the poorest neighborhoods in the city. It was here that she administered medical care and education to those that did not have the means to do so otherwise.
She then started a long career at Fitzgerald Mercy Hospital in Darby. First as an operating room nurse, then on to the IV department. Ironically, it was here that she passed away.
Known as “Mary the Nurse” in her neighborhood, parents would often take their injured children to see her prior to seeking medical attention. A specialty of hers was removing stitches from the kids. This was known and permitted by the doctors that knew her best.
After retirement, Maryanne continued her career for the Red Cross in their Blood Bank.
She was a fantastic cook and her children’s friends were always encouraged to stop by her home for a bite to eat. Needless to say, they always took her up on it. She also loved to read books on all subjects including poetry and verse.
Maryanne always treated everyone with dignity, respect and had compassion for all.
She was preceded in death by her husband Lawrence, parents Giuseppe and Antoinette Sigismondi, sister Esther and brother Joseph.
She will be sorely missed by son John Mercanti (Ann), daughter Lorraine Erieg (Robert), Grandchildren Marissa and Cara Erieg and Great Grandchild Jai. Services were private. Contributions can be made in her memory to Alzheimer’s Association, Delaware Valley Chapter, 399 Market Street, Suite 102 Philadelphia, PA 19106. online condolences to www.jpdfh.com