Noemi Mercado, 86, of Bethlehem, passed away peacefully in St. Luke's Hospice House surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, July 22, 2021. Born in Mayaguez Puerto Rico, she was a daughter of the late Ramon and Elena Rodriguez. Noemi raised her family and lived many years in New York where she worked as the cook for over 20 years in the Rectory of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Manhattan. She was a member of Most Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Manhattan.

Survivors: She is survived by her children, Samuel Mercado of New Jersey, Daisy M. Figueroa of New York, Milagros Mercado Matias of Bethlehem; sisters, Santa Mercado, Alba Godoy, Norma Rosario; 7 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild.

Services: Locally, a viewing will be held on Tuesday afternoon from 2:00 to 4:00 P.M. in the James Funeral Home, 527 Center Street, Bethlehem. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Most Holy Redeemer R. C. Church in Manhattan NY once plans are confirmed. Entombment of Cremated Remains will follow the Mass in St. Michael's Cemetery, Queens NY.

With the change in COVID-19 restrictions, those who have not been vaccinated are encouraged to wear a mask at all times in the funeral home. Out of caution we ask that those with compromised immune systems, undergoing chemo therapy or are elderly please consider wearing a mask for your own safety. We thank you for your understanding.