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Rita Pierson Obituary
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Rita's favorite children's charity, Communities in Schools of Houston, 1235 North Loop West Suite 300, Houston, TX 77008.
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Memories and Condolences
for Rita Pierson
Dr. Jamie Dooley-Renfro
May 7, 2025
Twelve years has passed since her death. Dr. Pierson's impact on me as an educator lives on!
I am Dr. Jamie Dooley Renfro, an high school educator for 32 years in HISD and a 12 - year Adjunct Chemistry Professor at TSU. During PD, I was blessed to sit and listen to Dr. Pierson's presentation on the TED Talks platform; she taught me what it means to literally cherish our students. I have had a rewarding career in education, and I truly realize today that she was one of the people who played apart and shaving me into the loving teacher that I am today. My prayer is for her family; clearly you miss her, but know that her impact in the lives of the many educators, who listened to her speeches benefitted greatly .
To God be the Glory!
Dr. Michael Robinson
June 24, 2023
You transitioned the same month and year as my father. I am STILL IN DISBELIEF!!! You were and shall always be my mentor. I remember our many conversations and stories you would tell me. I remember making trips to Wal-Mart for you when you would come to do consultant work. I miss you and shall always love you Dr. P. I will see you again one day on that other shore. Until that GREAT and TRIUMPHANT DAY...
Rose Norton
June 27, 2022
Remember eating pizza and playing games at Slick Willie´s! We had such good times together.
Michael Robinson
July 25, 2021
I'm still in disbelief! Unreal!
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Beverly Wyatt
June 24, 2021
there is not a day that passes without a thought of something Rita has said. The time I spent in her workshops or watching her videos and Ted Talk was beyond treasure. Thank you for the remembering a life well lived.
Dr. Michael Robinson
June 25, 2020
Dr. Pierson and I met at a conference and clicked immediately. There shall NEVER be another like her. She died the day after my birthday in the same month and year that my dad made his transition (June 15, 2013). I miss her so much. She would always give me sound advice and encouragement. I don't understand why God takes the best first because he surely has a good one in Dr. Pierson. I know she is teaching and leading even in Heaven. My heart still aches for both her and my dad. Love you Doc!
Denise Showell
July 28, 2013
While I did not know Dr. Pierson personally, she INSPIRED me approximately 12 years ago when I attended a conference where she presented on hidden rules. I SHALL NEVER forget it. What an educator! May God continue to bless and strengthen all those who mourn her loss. Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning... Sis Pierson: You've earned your rest
Beverly Wyatt
July 25, 2013
Dr. Pierson inspired me in ways I cannot say. Her passion about relationsips and admitting when we teachers make mistakes should serve as guidelines for future educators. We at Region 3 Service Center have been fortunate to have her speak to our participants and were looking forward to her visit in August. She leaves a huge void in the field of education.
Janet Spurlock
July 24, 2013
To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die. Dr. Pierson's message will live in the hearts and minds of many for years to come. Rita was a wonderful fellow administrator and an inspiration to me. Mata Intermediate School of Alief ISD sends their heartfelt sympathy to the family.
Erica Shoulders-Royster
July 12, 2013
Thanks for the inspiration! My prayers are with the family.
Beverly Wyatt
July 11, 2013
The light of a gifted educator has gone to light heaven. Rita's love of education and her message of the importance of relationships between teachers and students has affected the teaching of hundreds. What a legacy. I only wish she could have completed her journey later?? love to her family from one who admired her soul.
July 11, 2013
The District and Staff of Morehouse Parish Public Schools of Bastrop, Louisiana wish to extend our deepest heartfelt sympathy in the loss of our colleague in education. Dr. Pierson was truly unique in the way that she expressed her love for children. She will be truly missed. Morehouse Parish Administrators and Staff
Dr. Linda Bell-Morgan and Bell Family
July 10, 2013
Come unto “me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me: for I am meek and lowely in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls (Matthew 11:28-29)
Dr. Rita Walker Pierson was our neighbor, our childhood and life friend! She was an inspiration to all that came to know her wit and mesmerizing smile. To the family, our deepest sympathy goes to you. Though words, however, gentle, cannot take your loss away, may there be a comfort in knowing that someone so very special will never be forgotten.. Please remember to lift up your eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh your help. Your help will cometh from the Lord. (Psalm 121:1-2)
Humbly submitted
Marion Woods
July 10, 2013
Dr. Pierson presented workshops for the Little Rock School District educators on several occasions. She will be missed as an inspirational, motivator, encourager to all educators. On behalf of the Little Rock School District, we would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the family.
Chandra Woods
July 9, 2013
I had the privilege of working with Dr. Pierson on several projects with my staff. I admired her passion and encouraging spirit. I learned so much from her during our planning sessions. I also had a lot of fun and laughed a whole bunch. She was such a brilliant lady. I will never forget the support and love she shared with me during our work together. May The Lord provide comfort and peace to the Pierson family during this season of their lives. Know that she has left an everlasting impact on the hearts of those who share her passion of educating ALL children.
Cassandra Gregory
July 9, 2013
Words cannot express the feeling of loosing such an Beautiful and Talened Lady. My heart goes out to the Family. May God Bless You.
Dr. Michael Robinson
July 8, 2013
I lost my father June 15, 2013 and to lose Dr. Pierson June 28, 2013 was a lot for me. She was like a mom to me. I've known her since 2004. She mentored, coached, inspired, encouraged, and advised me. I don't know what to say. I'm grieving and celebrating her life the same as with my dad. I love you Doc!! As long as I live, you will live.
July 8, 2013
Dr. Pierson:
You coached, encouraged, mentored, and advised me. I just lost my dad on June 15, 2013, and to lose you on June 28, 2013, was a lot. I'm just ... I'm hurt, sad, shocked. Most of all, I am proud God allowed our paths to cross. I will never forget you and will keep you alive as long as I live.
- Dr. Michael Robinson (Washington, DC)
Ms. Sherri, CHAMPION
Lameisha Sherri
July 8, 2013
On Teacher's Appreciation Day, May 7th 2013 Dr. Pierson's Ted Talks Education Video changed my perspective on Education forever. That day, I posted her image on my FB Wall with the caption "Me in 40 years". I'm forever grateful for her passion, love and commitment to students and the legacy she leaves for aspiring Master Educators like me.
Carolyn Idlebird
July 8, 2013
What a beautiful person we will truly miss her. Praying for the family that God will give you the strength to press on. Weeping may endure for a night but joy cometh in the morning.
Garylyn McGee
July 7, 2013
My mind has been immersed in sweet memories since I received the call about my childhood friend's passing. Especially prominent is recalling a group of teenaged girls who formed a singing group that could put The Supremes to shame. Guess who was Diana Ross. RIP, my dear friend.
rose norton
July 6, 2013
Keep Rita in cyberspace permanently. Her children and grandchildren will appreciate how much she was loved and admired . ??
rose norton
July 6, 2013
Your sudden death took me back in time of 2 little girls watching the same film noir movies while talking on the phone.
My angel, Amber, is waiting for you; as well as, Eugene with open arms.
Peggy Rogers
July 5, 2013
I am very sorry to hear the lost of my friend and I am at a lost for words. She was so dear to me and a great contributer to my District program. I know it is equally as hard on you as it is for me. I know God will lift us up in this moment and forever. I will continue to be prayful and will continue to pray for the family.
Sherian Smith
July 4, 2013
My prayers are the family of Dr. Pierson. She was a real inspiration to many. I know she will be greatly missed by all.
Kindly,
Dr. Sherian L. Smith
Tarleton State University
Evelyn Murray
July 4, 2013
It was an honor to have the pleaseure to hear Dr. Puerson speak at a Federal Programs Conference.She was so enthusiastic as well as encouraging. She was awesome! I can't be there in person to help celebrate her life, but I will be there in spirit. With the help of God, family and friends, each day will be easier to endure.
Deborah Pruitt-Meyers
July 4, 2013
To the Pierson Family I offer my heartfelt symphathy. I will always remember Rita's amazing sense of humor and her wonderful smile. Always
Kenda Covington
July 4, 2013
My prayers are with you. Rita spoke at Mississippi's Federal Programs conference a couple of weeks ago and was truly inspirational. She renewed our zeal to do whatever it takes to help our children become successful. She will be greatly missed. We will continue her work.
Joyce
July 3, 2013
I had the wonderful pleasure of meeting Dr. Rita Pierson several years ago. She was such an inspiration to me and all who knew her. My prayers go out to her family and friends.
Ritchie Walker-Johnson
July 3, 2013
To The Family,
My name is Ritchie Walker Johnson, first cousin to Rita. My prayers are with all of you. It saddens me to hear of Rita's passing. The last time I spoke to Rita was when my youngest son passed in September 2012. I pray that God gives each of you renewed strength during this time. I know Rita will be rejoicing in heaven where she will meet my son, her second cousin for the first time. Please accept my deepest sympathy. continue to have faith in God, for he will pick you up when you are weak and comfort you when you are sad.
Blessings
Doris Bacon
July 3, 2013
Dr. Pierson came to speak to the teachers at Glover Elementary in Missouri City, Texas, twice to my knowledge. She was so very funny and yet inspiring. Whenever I called her Dr. Pierson, she would say, “Call me Rita.” I am truly saddened by her passing. I had just forwarded the video of her when she was on Ted Talks to some family members who are educators this morning. Her topic was "Every Kid Needs a Champion." As I began to read the reviews of her appearance on the show I noticed that everyone was speaking of her in past tense. I could not believe what I was reading so I did a quick Google search which brought me to this guestbook. She was truly a CHAMPION! My prayers are with the family.
D. Stone
July 3, 2013
I am not an educator, but have to say I am very moved by Dr. Rita Pierson. What an inspiration for all of us, and her legacy will live on. RIP.
Chavis Bradford
July 3, 2013
It is with great sadness that we mourn the loss of Dr. Pierson. She was a great educator that strived to motivate and inspire educators, students, and school personnel. On behalf of the Wilkinson County School District, we would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the family and friends.
-WCSD
July 3, 2013
Thank you to God and her family for sharing such a Beautiful person and spirit. Whether face to face or in a group, her smile and words touched my life. Blessings and strength to her family.
Laverne Moore
Anita
July 2, 2013
Dr. Pierson was such an inspiration in the education field and in life.. I had the previledge of meeting her twice at an in service. My prayers are with the family. She will truly be missed.
Connie Morgan
July 2, 2013
Dr. Pierson was such an inspiration to all the educators she touched. I am so glad to have known her.
Francis Jones
July 2, 2013
I am blessed because our paths crossed. Dr. Pierson's love and passion for children was inspiring. May God continue to lift up and bless the family.
J Townsley
July 2, 2013
Awesome speaker!
Stacey Doctor
July 2, 2013
Dr. Pierson was a great inspiration to me. I had a chance to meet and speak with her very early in my career as an educator. She was beyond inspiring and made me feel like we had known each other for years. It was a pleasure to see and speak with her again this past February during a professional development session. She was awesome and will be greatly missed. Her legacy will never be forgotten!! My prayers are with the family.
Vandora Johnson
July 2, 2013
I only met Dr. Rita Pierson once, but she was a very inspiring and joyous person. She will be missed by many.
Valla Johnson
July 2, 2013
Praying for your strength in this difficult time. She was an awesome educator and presenter. I have contracted with her several times in the Calcasieu Parish School System. She will be missed. Valla Johnson (Lake Charles, Louisiana)
Latausha Lee
July 1, 2013
I had the pleasure of having Dr. Pierson present staff developments at my school,Glover Elementary, twice. The knowledge she bestowed upon us was unforgettable. Dr. Pierson was a dynamic woman!! My prayers are with the family at this difficult time.
Frances Harris Williams
July 1, 2013
I am saddened by Rita's passing. She was such a vibrant and inspirational person. A very dear friend that I will miss. I pray for the family. Know that the Lord our God is watching over you all. May God Bless You.
Linda Pickens
July 1, 2013
Dear Pierson Famiy,
I know that Rita's smile and warm spirit wll truly be missed by all. Be encouraged, God's Grace is sufficient and Rita will always be in your heart.
My prayers and love are with you.
Yolanda Palmer
July 1, 2013
Praying... Webster Parish School Board
Minden, Louisiana
Larry Dunn
July 1, 2013
Rita and I used to walk home from school. She was always a good friend and neighbor. She was special and she left us way too soon. My prayers to the children and family.
Charles Wilkins
July 1, 2013
I lost a dear friend in Rita. We knew each other for 47 years and that's difficult to get over. My prayers are with the Pierson family during this most difficult time. Bless you all.
July 1, 2013
May the GOD of all comfort provide the bereaved Pierson's family with whatever is needed so you can cope with your great loss. Also our loving heavenly Father has promised to remove all causes of death and the heartaches it brings.
Deidra Pruitt-Ligons
June 30, 2013
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
rose norton
June 30, 2013
You will be missed! Although, I will not be present; I'll be there spiritually.
Paula
June 30, 2013
Rita's ability to encourage and challenge teachers will be greatly missed. Her passion for children of all races and economic levels was inspiring.
June 30, 2013
Rita's passion and dedication to our field was contagious. Her influence will continue to change the lives of families through education. We will miss her greatly. She was due to speak at our school in September,
ROSALIND JAMES
June 30, 2013
I AM AT A LOSS FOR WORDS AND FILLED WITH GREAT SADNESS, RITA WAS AN INCREDIBLE WOMAN AND SHE MEANT THE WORLD TO ME AND MY FAMILY. MY PRAYER ARE WITH PIERSON FAMILY DURING THIS DIFFICULT TIME, AND ALTHOUGH SHE IS NOT HER IN PHYSICAL BODY SHE WILL ALWAYS BE HERE IN YOUR HEARTS.
June 29, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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