Ronald Jerald Pierce, Sr., affectionately known as Ron to his friends and loved ones, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2025, in Ypsilanti, Michigan, at the age of 87. Born on October 10, 1937, in Sullivan, West Virginia, Ron was a man whose life story was rich with love, laughter, and service.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Minnie Pierce, and he carried their legacy of strength and kindness throughout his life. He found his soulmate in Doreen Pierce, with whom he shared 25 years of unwavering love and companionship. Their love story is one of two hearts mending after loss and becoming inseparable. Doreen often said Ron was the perfect husband-a testament to their profound bond.

A devoted father, Ron leaves behind a loving family, including his children Debbi (Wayne) Bildrey, Ron Jerald (Christine) Pierce, CarolSue (Mark) Suda, Maryanne (Eric) Utterback, Corey (Lauren) Pierce, and his step-children Jeannette (Patrick) Day, Jason Ivey, and Johnathan (Kimmy) Morris. He was predeceased by his son Ernie Pierce. His legacy will also live on through his cherished 15 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, each of whom he adored.

Ron is survived by his siblings Eugene (Ann) Pierce and Myrtle Helton, and he now joins his late siblings Ernest Pierce, Mary Clark, and David Pierce in eternal rest. He also leaves behind his best friend, Roger Lambert, with whom he shared a lifetime of memories and camaraderie.

Ron proudly served his country as a Marine, retiring after 30 years of dedicated service, including time spent in Vietnam. He achieved the rank of First Master Sergeant, a reflection of his commitment and leadership. His military career was not just a job but a pivotal part of his identity, instilling values of loyalty and respect that he carried throughout his life.

His interests painted the portrait of a man deeply committed to his family and community. Ron was the epitome of reliability, always there for those he loved. He had a passion for making memories, often providing history lessons with his wealth of knowledge. Traveling with Doreen brought him great joy, particularly their cruises and visits to Las Vegas. A fan of casinos and bingo, he also enjoyed the simple pleasures of feeding deer in his West Virginia backyard and tending to his yard with great care.

Ron was known for his humor, often lighting up a room with his wit and bringing laughter to those around him. He was sentimental, generous, and full of love-a good provider who took care of everyone. His presence was a gift to all who knew him, and his legacy of love and laughter will endure.

A man of integrity and character, Ron was admired for his loyalty, respected for his generosity, and cherished for his capacity to love. Those who knew him will remember a man who was not only funny and loving but also someone who enriched the lives of others with his generosity of spirit.

Ronald Jerald Pierce, Sr. will be profoundly missed by his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with him. His was a life well-lived, and his memory will be treasured forever.