Terry Pierce

1953 - 2026

Terry Richard Pierce, 72, passed away February 9, 2026 at his residence in Cameron, Missouri.

Terry was born September 19, 1953 in Hibbing, Minnesota to Everett and Germaine Pierce. After high school, he entered the Marine Corp and served from 1970 to 1973. He again served his country in the Army National Guard from 1982 to 1989. He went on to join the Operating Engineers Local 101, where he was a tower crane operator for fifteen years. He was able to overcome his initial fear of heights when beginning this career, and in turn helped develop the downtown Kansas City that we know now.

Terry met Leone Heikkila in Hibbing Minnesota. Together they relocated to Holt, Missouri and married in 1988. They continued to enjoy summers camping in Minnesota. Terry had five children, Terry Jr and Timothy before he and Leone had Whitney, Colin and Cody.

Terry was always one to take pride in his children's accomplishments whether it was their grades, sports, or unique skills. He was always willing to help anyone he came across, offer a witty joke or harmless prank, and win over every dog he met. Terry loved the outdoors (hunting, fishing, racing), riding his Harley, and was always on the go. He never met a stranger, showed empathy to everyone, and offered support no matter the circumstances. Sweets never lasted long around Terry and all other foods were better with a little Tobasco.

We will always remember pulling off Terry's surprise 70th birthday party in Minnesota, attending Chiefs and Vikings football games, ice fishing trips, home repairs that he wasn't quite qualified for, and teaching his kids how to operate heavy machinery starting at a young age.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Germaine Pierce; son, Timothy Pierce; siblings, Joanne Pierce, Mary Olson, Everett Pierce, Fern Santa, John Pierce, Roseanne Koprivech and Paul Pierce.

He is survived by wife, Leone; children, Terry Jr, Whitney, Colin (Addison) and Cody (Shelby); siblings, Raymond (Sue) Pierce, Michael (Mona) Pierce, Jackie (Mike) Brooks, Henry (Sheryl) Pierce and Judy Pierce; grandchildren, Tanner, Jaelyn, Madyson, Aleyah, Brayden, Mason, Molly, Christian, Lexi, Anthony, Tatum, and Knox; many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held February 27, 2026 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Hidden Valley Funeral Home in Kearney, Missouri. A Memorial Service with military honors will be held at 2:00 PM at Hidden Valley Funeral Home in Kearney, Missouri.