Diane Thurman, who, along with the Gerard Family, helped lead the campaign for the statue, addresses the crowd of several hundred gathered for the event.
The Mayor was one of several public officials and special guests that attended the event.
The life-sized Johnny Mercer puppet was in attendance, and thanked the crowd and the City.
Mayor Johnson remarked about Mercer’s legacy, the dedication of the Friends of Johnny Mercer Society, and the influence of the area’s natural beauty on Mercer’s songwriting.
Nancy Gerard, Mercer’s niece, thanked everyone for their help making the statue possible, and spoke about her uncle’s legacy.
A local supergroup including Kim Polote, Teddy Adams, Ben Tucker and David Duckworth performed several Mercer favorites during the event.
Diane Thurman introduces several public officials who honored Mercer and his family.
County Commission Chairman Pete Liakakis announces that 11-18-09 is officially Johnny Mercer Day in Chatham County.
Music Producer Ken Barnes, who worked with Mercer on several recordings in London during the 1970s came over to be part of the event, and had some amusing anecdotes about the songwriter.
The moment just before the statue was unveiled.
The Mayor stands with several of Mercer’s descendants as the statue is unveiled.
Sculptor Susie Chisholm stands with members of Mercer’s family and the new statue.
