Samuel Mercer: A Legacy of Care at Phoebe Sumter

Americus, GA| March 19, 2025 – Samuel Mercer’s journey from bellhop to a beloved legend at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center is a testament to his remarkable perseverance and passion for helping others.  Phoebe Sumter recently honored Mercer for his 50 years of service to the Americus hospital.

“Samuel has been serving our hospital and this community for longer than many members of our staff have been on this earth.  He’s a valued mainstay at Phoebe Sumter and a wonderful example of what it means to be part of the Phoebe Family,” said Carlyle Walton, Phoebe Sumter President.

Mercer’s first job after high school was as a bellhop at the Windsor Hotel in Americus. Those early experiences solidified his exceptional work ethic and ignited a commitment to service. Back then, rooms at the Windsor were just $10 a night and Mercer ran the manual elevators and front desk. “Working at the Windsor Hotel, taught me how to understand and react to different people,” Mercer said.

During his time at the Windsor, Mercer said he learned a lot from fellow bellhop Floyd Lowery, who worked at the Windsor for 40 years as elevator operator and bellman.

“Floyd was already an older gentleman by the time I started working there and he told me all type of stories of people who had visited the Windsor. “The most famous person was former President Franklin D. Roosevelt (who, according to historical records, made a speech from the Windsor’s balcony when he was Governor of New York in 1928). The pub at the Windsor is named for him, which is ironic as most people remember Floyd for not being a drinker,” said Mercer.

Those skills are essential to his current role in Guest Relations at Phoebe Sumter.

“I know how to handle people from all backgrounds and diffusing situations became second nature. Being a bellhop taught me to get along with everyone, not just cling to one clique, and navigate people and situations effectively,” he said.

Mercer started working at Sumter Regional Hospital in 1975 in the hospital’s kitchen. He quickly mastered the skills needed to ensure smooth operations, from washing and organizing to maintaining a well-functioning kitchen environment. His dedication and adaptability saw him transition to key roles in Nutritional Services, where he played a vital part in providing patients with proper dietary care, especially during the challenging overnight shifts. Mercer dedicated 32 years to Food and Nutrition Services, showcasing his commitment to ensuring patients received the best care possible.

“I genuinely love helping people,” Mercer said, reflecting his humility and dedication.

He later worked in security for 10 years before serving as a host in the Guest Relations Department for the last 8 years, always embodying warmth and hospitality.

“Phoebe Sumter is really good to you. They are always here for you, and they make sure you always have something to learn,” said Mercer.

He often shared his philosophy, saying, “If you can get them laughing at something, then you’ve got them listening to you.”

Mercer is married with two daughters, and his commitment to family mirrored his professional life as he brings humanity and kindness to every interaction.

Samuel Mercer’s journey from carrying luggage at the historic Windsor Hotel to carrying out a lifetime of service at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center is a testament to his dedication and values. As a young bellhop, he learned the importance of hospitality, attention to detail, and making people feel valued – skills that became the foundation of his long career in healthcare. Whether ensuring patients receive proper nutrition, providing security, or greeting visitors with warmth and concern, Mercer continues to carry the same commitment to service from his early days at the Windsor to his impactful career at Phoebe Sumter.