GEORGE PIERCE

GEORGE PIERCE 1927-2012 Predeceased by parents Judge Grover & Mary Pierce, sister Sarah Pierce Dressler, twin sister Georgene Pierce and beloved son David Pierce. George and his sister Georgene, who died shortly after birth, were the first set of twins born at the Fort Benning Army Hospital in Columbus, GA. George had a wonderful and blessed life growing up in Auburn to loving, Christian parents who supported his numerous activities. Whether it was showing ponies as a young boy, playing football and track at Auburn High School or playing polo on the old drill field at Alabama Polytechnic Institute where his father served the Army R.O.T.C., George remained active and supported by his devoted parents. Upon graduating from Auburn High School in 1945, still impacted by the attack on Pearl Harbor George joined the Navy, serving in China until the end of World War II. After his service in the Navy George returned to Auburn and entered Alabama Polytechnic Institute, now known as Auburn University, graduating in 1950 with a degree in business. During his time at Auburn he became a member of the Kappa Alpha Order, beginning what would become a lifetime passion and involvement with the Order, later serving as a trustee for the Auburn University chapter. George passed on this passion for Kappa Alpha proudly witnessing not only a 2nd generation of Pierce's with all four sons becoming active in the Order, but a 3rd generation as well when grandson Adam, son of his eldest son George Bradford Pierce, was initiated as the second member of his class. For George's many years of service and dedication to Kappa Alpha he was honored with the Order's highest national award at a surprise dinner at The Club in Birmingham when he was presented The Knight Commander's Accolade in front of numerous family and friends, becoming only the second Auburn University chapter alum to receive the award. George was a living example of a great southern gentleman, representing the Order and more importantly his family with true southern class. In 1949, George would meet his wife-to-be, Virginia "Jenny" Pierce at The Auburn Grill while they were attending college at Auburn, telling his parents after their first meeting, "I just met the girl I'm going to marry." They would indeed marry the following year in 1950 in Jenny's hometown of Alexander City, AL. After graduating from Auburn George joined the Air Force and upon his graduation from Air University at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, AL the young coupled moved to St. Louis, MO where George would graduate from the Air Force Finance School. After serving active duty George retired at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, remaining in the reserves until a full retirement from the Air Force years later as a Lieutenant Colonel. Upon his retirement from active duty George returned the family to Auburn, initially working for West Point Pepperell before moving on to Diversified and finally retiring as plant manager for Beck Manufacturing Company. Outside of work George was very active with the Auburn United Methodist Church serving on the board of trustees, including three terms as chairman of the board along with three years as Sunday School Superintendent. He also remained very active in the community serving on the Auburn Beautification Council with two terms as president, the Historic Commission of Auburn, Chairman of the Auburn Cemetery Trust, Chairman of the Scout Commission and member of Veterans of Foreign War, Masonic Lodge and Lion's Club and very active with the Auburn Little League in support of his children as they were growing up. George truly believed in his children and the importance of being there to support them in their numerous sports and activities. George enjoyed golf, fishing, and hunting along with spending time with his family and friends, including many wonderful times spent with his family at the beach. He especially enjoyed Auburn football weekends, getting to watch the Tigers on TV and the numerous visits of family and friends in town for the game. The Auburn spirit was always alive in his heart. George is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Jenny Pierce of Auburn, AL. Son George Bradford Pierce and wife Kacy of Vestavia Hills, AL. Their children, daughter Ali, husband Chad Pilcher and their daughter Avery of Vestavia Hills, AL; daughter Amy, husband Scott Kirkpatrick and their sons Will & John Pierce of Vestavia Hills, AL; son Adam Pierce, wife Melissa and their son Ford of Vestavia Hills, AL. Son Dr. Robert Pierce of The Ridge, Lake Martin, AL. His children, son Robert "Bo" Pierce Jr., wife Megan and their daughters McKenzie & Emma Kate of Decatur, AL; son Matthew Pierce, wife Mary Byrne of Carrolton, GA; son Taylor Pierce and daughter Madison of Auburn, AL. Daughter Jenny Pierce Swinson, husband Steve of Houston, TX. Their children, son Mitch Swinson of Fort Worth, TX; daughter Katie Grace of Houston, TX. Son Joel Pierce, wife Cheryl of Vestavia Hills, AL and sons Dustin currently stationed at Fort Hood with the US Army and Andrew attending Highlands College. Devoted sister-in-law Suzy Roberts of Morattico, VA and her son Will Bonner. Special niece and husband, Connie and Jim Findley of Salem, OR, special nephew Rick Harrison of Snellville, GA as well as other nieces, nephews and cousins. His so many special friends through visits, phone calls and cards have filled his days with happiness throughout his long illness. A special appreciation for their love and kindness to the Hospice & VA nurses and all of their staff. They came into his room with loving support and became like family to us. No matter how busy their day had been, they came with a smile, a big hug and always made George laugh, brightening his day. As a family we will remember George as a man devoted to God, his church, his family and his country. He lived a strong and selfless life anyone would be proud of. George will be greatly missed as he brought such joy and light to all whom he encoutered. A memorial service will be held 11AM Friday, December 28, 2012 at Auburn United Methodist Church Founder's Chapel. Dr. George Mathison is officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Outreach Ministry of AUMC or charity of choice. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory is directing. www.jeffcoattrant.com