Noel Mermer Obituary

I worked with Noel at Creative Loafing in Savannah as Editor when he was Publisher in the mid-'90s. But he was more than just a "co-worker." Noel, myself, Blair, Stephanie, Joan, and my girlfriend (now wife) Lorrie were truly a family unit, and I cherish those years in my life. So many fun memories of putting out that newspaper every week and just hanging out together. Though sometimes, we might have slight editorial/advertising disagreements. Like when Noel wanted me to include a "Car Dealer of the Week' feature to help sell ads. Even he soon laughed at the absurdity of that one.

I connect a lot of things to music, and there are two songs that I simply cannot hear without always thinking of Noel. We went to see the '70s band America at an outdoor Festival on River Street. Noel kept saying "I hope they play 'Sandman!' That's my favorite!" He got a bit worried as the show continued. "I REALLY want to hear 'Sandman!'" And once they launched into it, Noel, beer in hand, started headbanging as if he were at a Iron Maiden show. The other song is "Breakfast at Tiffany's" by Deep Blue Something. He was OBSESSED with that when it came out, and once made me listen to it three times in a row on his car stereo.

Christine, Noel, and Bennett, my deepest sympathies are with you all. Noel would sometimes talk to me about his father being gone, and how much he hoped to have his own family one day. I am very happy to know that he achieved that dream, and that the three of you made his life so complete.

The online service was an amazing overview of a loving, creative and compassionate father, husband and business man whose presence in this world will be so missed. I extend my sincere condolences to the family with fond and loving memories to carry you into the future. A family friend. Paula Koch

My deepest condolences. Dearest Beloved Noel. May God wrap His arms around you for everlasting peace.

I am so sorry for your loss. Noel fought a valiant battle. May all of Noel's pain be obliterated as he rises to the Lord!

Noel's dad was the best boss I ever had. We enjoyed watching Noel and his sister, Sheila, grow up. Being an enthusiast entrepreneur and talented business leader is clearly a Mermer family trait. To his sons, Noel and Bennett, your father and grandfather leave you a very special legacy. Both were taken much too early.

My dear friend Christine and boys,
My deepest condolences to you and the boys. Wishing you peace and comfort during this hard time.
Norene

Christine, my deepest sympathy to you and your family.

Rest In Peace, Noel. We are blessed to have known you, and your amazing family.

My prayers and deepest condolences to you Christine and the Mermer family. I'm very saddened by this news. Noel brought so much energy to Charleston. When he was leading the City Paper the arts, dining, music, nightclubs and bars, restaurants began thriving in a new way and engaging point of views came to the Holy City. He also was a publishing and business force like the city had never seen before. I know, I lived in it before there was The City Paper.

Every interaction (a meeting w/ him and Blair), mainly through Spoleto promotions, I had with Noel was fun and special to me. I never forgot Noel and longed for the day that I'd visit Charleston again after moving to Texas and get the chance to sit with him in a cafe or bar and just catch up. Charleston needed Noel at a time to enliven and elevate all it was doing. That's Noel's legacy to me and so many who would never have discovered the place and places of the Lowcountry.

God bless you Noel. Rest in peace. And comfort and strength to your family in the times ahead.

Deepest Condolences,
Chester Jacinto

I met Noel the summer before high school. He lived only a few blocks away, yet we didn't meet until then. We became fast friends.
Noel was my first crush. We dated. Nothing too serious, but we were there for each other when a date was needed. He was kind, funny and SO fun to be with.
Lionel Richie's song All Night Long will always remind me of Homecoming with you.
Rest In Peace my friend.
Love you to the moon and back.
Darcy