Dr. Robin L. Pierce Jr.

Dr. Robin Pierce Jr.

Dr. Robin L. Pierce, Jr., age 90, passed away peacefully after a life devoted to education, faith, community, and family. He was born in Caruthersville, Missouri, to the late Robin L. Pierce, Sr. and Faye Boswell Pierce. Before settling in Athens, Tennessee, Robin lived in West Tennessee and Hickman, Kentucky.

A graduate of Hickman High School and Holmes Junior College in Goodman, Mississippi, Robin went on to earn his B.S. from Bethel College, his M.A. from George Peabody College, and his Ed.D. from Memphis State University.

Robin began his career as a biology teacher and basketball coach at Dyersburg High School in Tennessee. His passion for education and leadership led him to serve as principal at Cayce Elementary in Kentucky, Lara Kendall School in Ridgely, Tennessee, and Union City High School. In 1969, he became the first Dean of Students at Dyersburg State Community College. Just a few years later, in 1973, he was named Superintendent of Athens City Schools-a role he held with distinction for 27 years.

As a progressive and visionary educator, Robin was deeply committed to the students of Athens. Under his leadership, the school system saw the addition of libraries, art and music programs, school secretaries, and bus transportation. Every school in the district earned accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools during his tenure.

Robin's influence extended beyond Athens. He was named Tennessee School Superintendent of the Year in 1988 and served five years as president of the Tennessee Organization of School Superintendents. He also contributed to state education through his work with the Tennessee State Textbook Commission and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Beyond education, Robin was a dedicated community leader. He served with the Kiwanis Club, the YMCA, Grace House, and on the board of Athens Federal Community Bank acting as Chairman for several years.

Robin's faith was a cornerstone of his life. A devoted member of East Athens Baptist Church, he served on numerous committees and taught adult Sunday School for many years.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Frankie Wright Pierce; his daughters, Michelle Pierce Chewning (Tim) and Penny Pierce Kilpatrick (Kevin); and his cherished grandchildren, Ben Kilpatrick, Lindsay Kilpatrick, Asher Chewning, and Maylee Chewning. He is also survived by his sister, Betty Hendrickson. He was preceded in death by his brother, Jerry, and sister, Faye.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to East Athens Baptist Church, 301 Central Avenue, Athens, T 37303 or the Athens YMCA, 205 Knoxville Avenue, Athens, TN 37303-two organizations close to Robin's heart.

A funeral service will be conducted 2:30 pm, Sunday, June 1, 2025 at East Athens Baptist Church with Rev. Jason Robertson, Rev. Bryan Trapp and Rev. Vant Hardaway officiating. Interment will be at New Haven Cemetery in Ridgely, TN. The family will receive friends at the church in the fellowship hall from 2:30-3:30, Sunday following the service.

Pallbearers will be Debo Toomey, Joe Knox, Barry Toomey, Hoby Toomey, Jerry Millisaps, Jeff Cunningham, Allen Carter, and Ray "Sleepy" Grant.

You may sign the guest register @smithfuneralandcremationservicesofathens.com

Smith Funeral & Cremation Services of Athens is honored to serve the family of Dr. Robin L. Pierce, Jr.