Helen Randall Pierce

Helen Randall Pierce of Hendersonville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2026, at the age of 94.

Helen was born on May 11, 1931, in Homer, New York, where she grew up alongside six brothers and one sister. She graduated from Homer High School, where she met her high school sweetheart, Van Pierce of Cortland, New York. The two married in 1952 following Van’s return from the Korean War, during which he was awarded the Purple Heart. They shared 46 loving years of marriage before Van’s passing in 1998.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Roberta McMaster Randall and Merwin Randall; her significant other, Don Knapp; and her six brothers, Jim, John, David, Don, Robert, and William.

Helen is survived by her children: Jim (Vicki) Pierce, Tom (Carol) Pierce, David (Becky) Pierce, Eric (Maureen) Pierce, and Saundra (Tim) Eversole; and by her sister, Sally Gray. She is also survived by 11 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, all of whom she loved dearly—and who loved her in return.

Family was the center of Helen’s life. She raised four sons before the age of 30 and welcomed a daughter at 38. She and Van cherished family picnics, camping trips, tanning on the beach, playing golf, and traveling throughout the United States. In her later years, Helen enjoyed simple pleasures: ice cream, Diet Cokes, reading People Magazine, good books, and watching Hallmark Channel movies.

Guided by her faith and a deep desire to help others, Helen dedicated her career to serving the New Albany (Indiana) Floyd County school system, working as both a cafeteria lunch lady and teaching adults and children to read. She also served as a kindergarten Sunday school teacher. In retirement, she especially enjoyed attending senior events at Indian Lake Peninsula Church in Hendersonville, Tennessee.

Helen had a positive, upbeat spirit and never met a stranger. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

The family is planning a private ceremony to spread her ashes in the park where her husband Van’s ashes were laid to rest.

While donations are not required or expected those who feel compelled to honor Helen’s memory may send a contribution to the Student or Seniors Ministry at:
Indian Lake Peninsula Church
235 Indian Lake Road
Hendersonville, TN 37075