Madonna Denise Polonius, age 60, passed away on March 22, 2023, after a brief stay in the hospital.  She was born in Dothan, Alabama, on August 6th, 1962, to the late Harris and Bea Mercer.  She was also preceded in death by her brother, Steve Mercer.  Denise graduated from Rutherford High School in 1980, as a member of Les Chanteurs, and from Gulf Coast Community College in 1982, with a degree in nursing.  She had a beautiful voice and even received a voice scholarship from FSU.  Denise used this remarkable gift to bless many others over the years, singing at events, weddings, in the church choir, and with her sister, Rhonda.  In addition to singing, Denise had a passion for nursing and giving care to others.  She gave sacrificially, passionately serving as a nurse, primarily as a bedside cardiac care nurse, for over 40 years.  In 1988, she married the love-of-her-life, Michael Polonius.  Together, they spent much of their time traveling to the mountains of North Carolina, riding motorcycles, and cheering on their favorite sports teams, the Braves and Alabama.  Denise was a talented and avid crafter, devoting much of her time to crafting and creating with family members and teaching them her skills.  She was also a long-time member of Immanuel Baptist Church.

Denise's laughter and joy were infectious, and she leaves behind a legacy of deep love and beautiful memories to her husband, Michael Polonius; her children, Michael L. Polonius, John D. Polonius, and Stephanie Houseal Polonius; her grandchildren, Tannis and Aniege Polonius, Lauren and Wyatt Houseal, and Lillie pup; and her siblings, Bruce (Teresa) Mercer, Rhonda (Dennis) Hatcher, Mark (Renee) Mercer, and sisters-in-law, Debra Mercer and Dianna Sweet (Wes).  She was affectionately known as "Aunt Neicy" to her many nieces and nephews, Nichole (Stephen) Weatherly, Jeremy (Cathryn) Hatcher, Suzanne (Luke) Miller, Josh Mercer, Olivia (A.J.) Howland, Patrick (Jodi) Mercer, Stephen (Jade) Mercer, Christopher Mercer, Kyle Mercer, Lindsay Webb and Joe Mollman (Ana) and Matthew Mollman (Lisa); along with numerous, much-beloved, great nieces and nephews.  Denise cherished her faith, loved others deeply, and led a life marked by exceptional joy, which she shared with those around her.  Denise is deeply etched in the hearts of those who knew her best, and we will carry her memory with us, always.

To celebrate her life, there will be a time of visitation on Wednesday, March 29th, at 10:00, followed by a service at 11:00 at Immanuel Baptist Church.  A private graveside service will take place at a later date.