John E Pierce

John E. Pierce, a devoted husband, beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, and friend, peacefully departed this earthly life on January 6, 2026, at the age of 71. Born on August 21, 1954, in Suffolk, Virginia, he was the cherished child of Alphonso Pierce Sr. and Etta Pierce who instilled in him strong values of faith, integrity, and perseverance.

On May 31, 2025, John was joined in holy matrimony to Erica Gatling-Pierce (Erica Best Ever as John would say). Their God-ordained union was richly blessed and firmly rooted in love, patience, understanding, and mutual respect. Though their time as husband and wife spanned only seven short months, their three years together were rich in deep devotion, shared faith, and genuine companionship. Hand in hand, they walked through life's joys and challenges, trusting God's plan and leaning on His grace every step of the way.

John was a humble man of remarkable strength, quiet wisdom, and steadfast determination. He possessed a gentle spirit balanced by resilience and was known for his warm, welcoming smile and calming presence. A man of his word, John was deeply committed to his family, his work, and his community. His dependability and strong work ethic were evident throughout his many years of dedicated service at Norshipco in Norfolk, Virginia, where he earned the admiration, trust, and respect of supervisors, coworkers, and friends alike.

Faith, family, and service stood at the center of John's life. He accepted Christ at an early age and remained a faithful servant of the Lord throughout his lifetime. As an active and devoted member of New Gospel Temple Church, John served with sincerity and consistency, always willing to lend a helping hand, offer encouragement, or share a comforting word. His quiet faith spoke volumes and left a lasting impression on all who worshiped alongside him.

Affectionately known as "MacGyver," John was admired for his creativity, resourcefulness, and remarkable ability to fix or build almost anything. Gifted with his hands and a keen eye for detail, he found joy in playing the harmonica daily, playing the saxophone, drawing, cutting grass, etc. and using his talents to help others. Whether repairing something broken or offering practical solutions, John took pride in being useful and dependable.

John delighted in sharing stories, laughter, and life lessons, often leaving those around him smiling, encouraged, or wiser for having spent time in his presence. His legacy is one of love, faith, hard work, and unwavering devotion to those he held dear.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories of his loving and devoted wife, Erica Gatling-Pierce. His children; Sharise P. Arline (James), Corey Pierce (Tiffanie), Crystal Johnson, Monica Daniels (Lamont), Deshanna Duggins, Deon Gatling, Destinee Sessoms. Brothers include Alphonso Pierce Jr (Annette), Willie "Bill" Pierce, Dennis Pierce (Lelita). Sisters include Mary V. Pierce-Boone, Vivian Kenly, Juareline Diggs, and Debra Kearney.

Grandchildren include: De'Quan Pierce (Ashley), Ja'Quanda Williams, Nyjah Johnson, Ta'Coreya Pierce, Erik Ponton, Miles Ponton, Nigel Johnson, Noel Johnson, Jameseon Arline, Jakhari Gatling, Natalie Duggins, Ni'ke Baker, Neala Baker. Great grandchildren include Quiana Pierce, Alani Arline, Amiyah Pierce, Carter Arline, Ca'Milah Arline, Camello Arline and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, church family, and lifelong friends.

**The family will receive guests at the home place on Friday January 9, 2026, and Saturday January 10, 2026, from 2pm to 7pm.**

A viewing and visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, from 3pm to 6pm at New Gospel Temple Church, in Suffolk, Va.

A Celebration of Life Service honoring John E. Pierce will take place on Wednesday 1pm, at New Gospel Temple Church.

John's legacy of love, laughter, creativity, and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Lastly, we would be honored if you would leave a short comment of how John impacted your life, words that best describe him or your favorite memory of John in the condolences section.