Richard Lamar Pierce

    Richard Lamar Pierce, born in Mobile, AL, and a longtime resident of Semmes, AL, entered his heavenly home on February 6, 2025. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and cherished friend to many.

    Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Calvin C. and Ina Mae Pierce; his sister, Theresa Darlene Gaston; niece, Constance Gaston; nephew, James (Lee) Gaston, Jr.; and his beloved in-laws, Cecil R. Thornton, Sr. (Janet), along with grandparents and other dear relatives.

    A man of deep faith, Richard was a well-loved member of Mercy Ministries of Eight Mile, AL, and a dedicated 25-year member of Crawford Assembly of God in Semmes, AL. His faith and love for others were the foundation of his life.

    Richard was known for his strong work ethic, beginning his career at the young age of 13. A true “jack of all trades” he worked tirelessly in various roles before retiring in December 2012 as an over-the-road truck driver.

    Beyond work, Richard found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved traveling, watching wrestling, and cheering on Alabama football. More than anything, he treasured time spent with his family. He was blessed with four grandchildren, whom he adored, and his love for people was evident in every interaction.

    A 1970 graduate of George County High School in Lucedale, MS, Richard leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. He is survived by his beloved wife of over 50 years, Donna Thornton Pierce; his children, Brandi Stevens (Mark) and Richard Aaron Pierce (Chasity); and his grandchildren, Braelyn Jade, Sarah Elizabeth, Hannah Grace, and Abigail Faith.

    He is also survived by his brother, Wesley C. Pierce (Wanda); brother-in-law, Joseph Thornton (Sissy) and their children, Greg, Elizabeth (Brandon), and Katelyn (Evan), as well as a special brother-in-law, Leland Gaston (Sharon). Richard was a cherished uncle to Christopher Gaston (Skyler), Nick Gaston (Danielle), Todd Gaston (Gabby), and Wendy Dickson (Donell).

    He will be lovingly remembered by his aunts, Joanne Reed (Bobby), Francis Ceechi, and Willene Pierce, along with countless co-workers, friends, and extended family members. Special friends, Anita McLeod, Becky Howell, Richard & Charlotte Hill of Gulf Shores, AL, and his dear Aunt in law, Opal Hill of San Antonio, TX.

Pallbearers:

Aaron Pierce, Mark Stevens, Dustin Bowles, Jerry Lewis, Joe Thornton, and Greg Thornton.

Honorary Pallbearers:

Eddie Bishop, Leland Gaston Sr., Wesley Pierce, Russ Stork, L.V. Horne, Lee Denmark, David Brown, Russell Simmons, Clyde Clark Jr., Dale Cortez, Greg Hickman, Jimmy Foster, Gary Finch, Harold Morris, and Tony Kilpatrick.

Funeral Services:

A celebration of Richard’s life will be held on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, with visitation beginning at 11 A.M and service at 12:00 PM at Valhalla Funeral Home, with interment to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Richard’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Nashville, TN, or a charity of your choice. The family would like to say a special thanks to Dr. Scott Saucier and his nurse Bonnie as well as the entire staff of Pulmonary Associates as well as the most caring and gracious staff of SAAD’S Hospice-The Retreat.

Richard’s kindness, laughter, and unwavering love for his family and friends will be dearly missed but forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew him.