Richard Lee Pierce

Richard Lee Pierce, aged 76, passed away on July 12, 2024, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Born on May 13, 1948, in Newark, New York, Richard's life was marked by his vibrant personality, deep faith, and diverse interests.

Richard was a valued member of the Navy, serving from November 1969 to July 1975 during the Vietnam Era aboard the USS F.D. Roosevelt CVA-42. Following his military service, he pursued a career in landscaping and later as a computer chip technician, demonstrating his versatile skills and dedication.

He held a degree in agronomy and soil conservation from SUNY-Agricultural and Technical College, Alfred, NY, which further fueled his passion for gardening, a hobby he cherished alongside his interests in sci-fi, history, and religious studies. Richard was also actively involved in his daughter's bakery as a taste tester and chief packaging expert, a role he embraced with enthusiasm.

A devout congregant of St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, Richard was deeply committed to his faith. He was known for his unwavering dedication to morning and evening prayers, often leading prayer sessions and opening the church doors to welcome the community.

Richard is survived by his daughter, Monica Pierce and her wife, Kelly Murphy; step-daughters, Sarah McLeod Smith and Jenny Faulk; brother Roger Pierce; nephew James Pierce; and sister-in-law Barbara Hubbard. Also surviving are his two grandchildren, Ronald "Rex" Smith and Dylan Smith.  He was preceded in death by his first wife, June Christine Pierce, his second wife, Judith McLeod, and sister-in-law Helen Pierce.

A Requiem Eucharist will be held in his honor at St. Peter's Episcopal Church on Friday, July 19 at 10am, followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to St. Peter's Episcopal Church (st-peters.org), the Arbor Day Foundation (arborday.org), or the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA.org).

Carolina Funeral Service and Cremation Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, is assisting the family with arrangements. Richard's legacy of laughter, generosity, and love for his family and friends will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

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