Archie "Paul" Pierson

Archie Paul Pierson, known as Paul to all that loved him, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday at the age of 75. Born in Essex County, Virginia, he was the son of the late Archie Burnell Pierson and the late Doris Virginia Lewis Pierson. He was the devoted husband of Sandra S. Pierson.

Paul served his country and community with distinction. He began his career as a D.C. Metro Police Officer before joining the United States Secret Service, where he faithfully served four presidents and trained others as a firearms instructor. Despite his remarkable accomplishments, Paul remained humble – smart, gentle, unassuming, and gave all glory to God. After his retirement, he returned to the Northern Neck, where he embraced a quieter life and dedicated himself to helping neighbors and friends. He was a Godly man and took every opportunity to share the gospel with family, friends and strangers alike.

Paul found joy in the simple pleasures of home-fishing, boating, crabbing, and watching the river from the cottage he and Sandra transformed into a welcoming family home. Paul was a family man, doting on his beloved wife until the end. His love for Sandra, his steady work ethic, gentle spirit, and unwavering kindness became a living example for his children and all who knew him. To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was a source of quiet love and pride. His family, along with countless friends and neighbors, will carry forward the lessons of his life: selfless love, humility, service, compassion, and devotion.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Sandra; his children: Brian Pierson (Trish), Shawn Allen (Butch), and T.J. Salyer; his grandchildren: Bradley (deceased), Derek, Jack, Madison, and Thomas; his great-grandchildren: Nolan, Evelyn, and Wyatt; Scott and Lori Saslaw, whom Paul loved as if they were his own; his brothers: Myrt Pierson (Sue), Lee Pierson, and William Shelley (Nancy); his sister-in-law, Janet Anderson; and many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors.

Following Paul's wishes, a graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at Milden Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Sharps. The Reverend Rodney Morrison of Farnham Baptist Church will officiate. After the service, Paul will be tenderly laid to rest in the Saunders family section of Milden Cemetery. The family will then receive friends at a reception in the Milden Church Parish Hall. All are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that Paul's deep respect for injured military service members and first responders be honored through a donation in his memory to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation at www.t2t.org. This organization provides meaningful assistance to improve the quality of life for those brave souls who have given so much.

Paul will be remembered as a man who walked with Jesus, gave generously of himself, and loved his family with his whole heart. His quiet presence, steady hand, and deep compassion will be missed but never forgotten.