In Memory of Sherry Mercieca

May 15, 1950 - December 29, 2001

Sherry Mercieca, co-founder and director of the Huntsville Feminist Chorus, was a beloved member of the Huntsville community, donating her talents and time to the betterment of numerous individuals during her lifetime. She constantly challenged those around her to join in working to achieve justice and peace in daily life through right action, and affected countless others who heard her music or were otherwise touched by the enthusiasm and positive energy she promoted. A Huntsville native, Mercieca earned bachelor degrees in both music and English, and a master’s degree in counseling psychology. In addition to her work in music, she counseled battered women, was a schoolteacher, and worked for justice and peace issues related to children and women through a number of community efforts.

Sherry Mercieca’s lifelong passion for music and its healing power combined with an unflinching political and spiritual activism culminated in the creation of the Huntsville Feminist Chorus. As co-founder and director of the chorus, Mercieca sought empowering music about peace and women, and developed a body of music that grew to encompass many nations, generations, cultures and musical styles. Along with her own musical talents, Mercieca had the special ability to instill, encourage and nurture the gift of song in others.

Sherry Mercieca lived an exemplary life: unconventional, rich and inspiring. She leaves a legacy of peace, activism, music and love, and lives on through the gifts of her music, her friendship and humor. 

This article by Susan Phelan originally appeared in the spring 2002 newsletter of the UAH Women's Studies program.

Photo by Steven Montgomery