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Jonathan Pierce Obituary
Jonathan was born on January 24, 1970 at Duke University Hospital, Durham, North Carolina but shortly thereafter moved to suburban Atlanta, where he was raised into a charismatic connoisseur of passion and adventure, having been thrust into this world of uncertainty with the precocious ability to understand all that is meant to be misunderstood.
Even at a young age, Jonathan exuded leadership skills and a desire for perfection, yet was constantly weaving through the metaphorical loopholes of society, always searching for ways to "beat the system." He attended and graduated from Riverwood High School in Sandy Springs, a member of the class of 1989. He then attended Brevard College and the University of Georgia. In 1992, his insatiable ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit led him to the foundation of Prestige Parking Inc., which he exclusively owned and operated for fifteen years in downtown Athens, gaining the appreciation and mutual respect of the Athens downtown and business communities. Enamored by the sky and the freedoms that it afforded him, Jonathan earned his commercial pilot's license, and flew frequently out of Athens's Ben Epps Airport. He was also an active member in the Aircraft Owners and Pilot's Association and a volunteer for Angel Flight, providing medical air transport to needy patients.
Those who had the auspicious opportunity to come to know Jonathan will remember him as fearless and brave, a shield to protect us from the fallacies of such an unjust world; an intellect and educator of the unknown, a beacon to guide us through the choppy currents of uncertainty. He was a fixture of love, radiating joy and compassion, a sun rising relentlessly to warm the heart and heal the mind, navigating the depths of existence to bring light upon all that is fair and just, expelling the darkness of immorality and those with an apathetic neglect for the precious gift of life.
He will live on through his wife, Mariah Wiley Pierce; his father and step-mother, J. Wayne and Terry Pierce; his mother, Judy; brothers, Justin and Jordan; sisters, Emily and Aimee; grandmother, Dot; mother-in-law, Susan Wiley; grandmother-in-law, Ruby Waters; his beloved dog, Jumper; and his many close friends who shared in his extraordinary life.
Family and friends are asked to join hands in remembrance on Sunday, October 28, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the home of Mark and Nancy Dyleski, 167 Plum Nelly Road, Athens, Ga. A memorial service will be held on Monday, October 29, at 11:00 a.m. at the Athens First United Methodist Church, 327 Lumpkin Street, Athens, Ga.
Jonathan's family and friends will be endowing a scholarship fund in honor of his memory and service to the community. Contributions, in lieu of flowers, can be made to the Jonathan C. Pierce Memorial Scholarship Fund at 315 Hawthorne Lane, Athens, GA 30606-2153.
Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. www.bernsteinfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jonathan Pierce
rhonda and wyndall walters
February 26, 2008
wayne,
Wyndall and I just heard about Johnathan. Our hearts go out to you and your family. So very sorry for your loss. Just wanted you to know that we are thinking of you. Hope to see you soon. When you are in Ocilla, please come by to see us.
with love
Rhonda nolan walters
Wyndall walters
Nivea Brandao
November 26, 2007
I worked with Jonathan for 5 years, while I was in Graduate School. Now I am living in Brazil, but still thinking about all friends I have left in USA. And Jonathan was such a great friend… He did help so much during my school years!!!! When I heard about the tragedy with Jonathan I could not stand … I cannot believe it!!!! I am feeling extremely sad… Mariah, you will never get over the loss, but God will see you through, as He
has promised.
Love,
Nivea e Juliano Brandao
Cindy Foster, Wilson
November 24, 2007
Wayne,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your son. My prayer's are with you and your family.
Julie Cohen
November 12, 2007
I was meeting with some high school friends, discussing our 20 year high school reunion when someone said, "Have you heard about Jonathan Pierce?" Of course, I was in shock when I was told of his untimely death. He was always up to something in high school, was athletic, loved his cars and was always lots of fun. I'm so sorry for his wife, family and friends. My husband lived across the street from him back then, and his parents still live there. I will think of him when I pass that piece of property on Riverside Drive. God bless him and those he left behind.
John Baldwin
November 4, 2007
Jonathan was my boss for 6 years. I worked the Mainstreet Bank/ BB&T parking lot during the day until June of this year. He was much more than a boss. He was one of my most dependable friends. After I left Athens this summer we stayed in contact because of our friendship. He was always there for me when I needed advice or help. I will never forget him. He was the best and most understanding boss I have ever had. I am truly shocked and saddend by his death. I pray God will be there for his wife Mariah, and his loved ones. He was THE MAN in downtown Athens. Anywhere I went wearing my Prestige Parking shirt or jacket, someone would ask me how he was doing. You will be missed Jonathan, but never forgotten.
John and Lisa Middleton
November 1, 2007
Jonathan was a man's man. We flew to Savannah and back so many times just because the weather was nice. He was great friend, a great pilot, and a man with a heart bigger than most. He played hard but worked harder. Words to describe this loss will never equate to the kind of all encompassing, fun loving, joy seeking great person Jonathan really exuded. He never met a stranger. We wish Mariah and all the family our sincere sorrow. You all will be in our thoughts and prayers. Please dont hesitate to call if you need anything.
Josh Popham
October 31, 2007
Jonathan was a boss, friend, and most of all a person who you could always count on!! I was employed for Jonathan 4 years during college, and what started out as an employer/employee relationship quickly grew into a friendship. He was a very personable guy, hardworking and understanding. I have many stories about Jonathan, but the one I will share is the one that most characterizes the type of guy Jon was.
I was married approximately 4 years ago, and while sending out invitations, I knew I had to include him. Now the wedding was in Folkston (about 5 hours South of Athens) and I after contacting Jonathan he explained how busy he was (like always), so I told him not to feel bad about not attending, just stay in touch. To my surpise I saw him in the congregation during my wedding ceremony, and after talking with him, he explained to me how he had to hitchhike to the church! Now Folkston is a small town w/ an even smaller airport. Jonathan landed right before the wedding and jumped on an electric scooter he had stored away in his plane. To his surpise, the scooter went dead and Jonathan found himself on the side of the road w/ his thumb in the air. Luckily, someone was coming by who dropped him off at the church.
It meant alot to me to see him on my special day, and every time I think of him I will always see him on side of the road w/ his thumb in the air and a smile on his face.
I am still in shock after hearing the terrible news this afternoon. My deepest condolences and sympathy go out to the entire Pierce family. Jonathan will be greatly missed,
Chad and Starla Barker
October 30, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. My husband and I got to know Jonathan through the RV parking in Athens. We were greatly saddened when we received the news Friday. We have many wonderful memories of the times we spent with Jonathan in Athens. He always had a way of making everyone feel important and was a tremendous person. I am sure that he will live on through the many lives he impacted; however, I know he will be greatly missed by many.
Kenneth Reid,Jr.
October 30, 2007
Dear Family,
This tremendous loss of love, brilliance and light, saddens me greatly at this time. Indeed, it is unfathomable to accept that Johnathan's human form has been diminished.
As I had the priviledge to meet him only once, he left an imprint of kindness and respect in my mind,and,in my spirit,as well.
Reading the words of his eloquent and admiring brother, Jordan, further confirms my belief in this universal truth: he will continue to live; through the actions,philanthropy and the audacity he exuded throughout his time, well spent in this realm.
Life is energy-eternal. Albeit, Johnathan's has evolved into an alternative form, his legacy will continue through the countless lives that he touched.
His conciousness contained wisdom,joy,humility and great love.
He is blessed with family members that are among the finest people in the world.
The scholarship foundation established to honor him is proof, once again, that those to whom much is given and shared freely with others, never die.
Remember him...for those that we have lost,when thought of, remain.
Only Love,
klr,jr. aka Kenny
Matt Benson
October 30, 2007
You will be missed in so many ways! Thank you for the wonderful memories in Athens!
Matt & Tara Benson
Erin Fleming
October 30, 2007
To the family and friends of Jonathan Pierce,
I first heard the news about Jonathan the day of his accident- October 24, 2007...I don't know if I'll ever forget that date..and it was chilling...
My girlfriend had called me as I was getting into my car (parked at one of Jonathan's lots on Clayton St.) and she asked me, "Have you talked to Candice recently?"
I said "Yes, about 20 minutes ago actually. Why?"
"Soooo, did she tell you about Jonathan?" she asked, with a tone in her voice that instantly made me silent.
"Jonathan? What about him?" I asked nervously, unsure that I wanted to hear the next part.
"Jonathan was killed in a car accident this morning." she said sadly....
I can't even tell you how much shock I was in...we all were. Our friend called and asked what Jonathan's last name was, and my girlfriend told her. She said she heard the news on the radio...and we became so frustrated when we couldn't find anything about it on the news or in the papers. So I called the Athens Banner Herald the next morning and asked the editor if he'd heard anything. He called me back later that day and confirmed that Jonathan had indeed passed away. It was like hearing the news all over again...
We attended the beautiful memorial service for him held yesterday. It was so truly touching, but not surprising, to see how many people cared about him. All of the speaches about him were beautiful and light-hearted...im sure Jonathan was sharing in the laughter.
I only knew Jonathan for about 2 1/2 years, (met him through my girlfriend who works at one of the bars downtown) but I will never forget him, or the kind of person he was. I still can't believe he's gone...even driving by the Main Street bank yesterday, we looked around, expecting to see him somewhere on the lot. I dont quite think its fully sunk in that we'll never see him downtown again...Jonathan was an amazing person and one Im proud to have called a friend. We will miss him dearly.
"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal."
With deepest sympathy,
Dennis Gay
October 29, 2007
Calb and I(Dennis Gay) hope you are well Pam Folger said you looked strong Parking will never be the same Love and prayers from your favorite Red Head
Alan Brown
October 29, 2007
I was truly stunned to see the tragic news after returning to Athens Sunday evening from my annual pilgrimmage to Jacksonville.
I was employed with a bank in downtown Athens (Bank South) when Jonathan was getting his business started up. I was amazed that he was able to sell the "pay to park" concept to us Athenians, who up until that time were not accustomed to doing so.
We became friends and maintained a business relationship throughout the years.
I hope that the community turnout at today's memorial service will in some way help show his family members the love and respect Jonathan garnered during his time here in Athens.
He will certainly be missed.
Charles Russell
October 29, 2007
Dear Wayne, Teri, Justin, Emily, Aimee, Jordan and Mariah:
Jeanine and I were rocked to the core this morning when learning of your loss.
But with the same grace, strength and independence that made Jonathan such a treasure; Jordan and Wayne led us all to look beyond this terrible loss--somehow.
Jonathan will always remain deeply fixed within our hearts. From his days playing toss with Jordan in the front yard on Amberidge, (when Jordan was just a little guy), to his charm and infectious smile as he kept the streets of Athens safe and orderly with the conviction of his business and beliefs--Jonathan's memory will be with us forever.
I know Jonathan has already introduced himself to the Good Lord, and is already pitching in to help make more room up there so the rest of us will fit if we wish.
Godspeed bud...we'll see you again someday and always recognize that smile and energy.
With Love,
The Atlanta and Athens Russells
stephina beasley
October 29, 2007
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Tina Lord
October 29, 2007
We are so sorry for your loss. We pray that you'll find peace, comfort and healing during this difficult time.
Blessings, Tina, Jay & Jackson Lord
Judy Madden
October 29, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers have been with. I know God will be with you every step of the way.
Winfield and Winnie Smith
October 29, 2007
Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
M Roush
October 29, 2007
I met Jonathan downtown - he always had a smile on his face and a kind word. There were times I felt really down he noticed and made a special point to talk to me. He will truely be missed. I feel for you all in this most difficult time.
April and Brandon Miller
October 29, 2007
You are in our thoughts and prayers. We love you very much!
Dale Parrish
October 28, 2007
I knew Johnathan from the airport. He was part of the "Sonny's crowd". I always smiled when he came in the hangar, and laughed when I saw him riding one of his motorized scooters, or folding bicycles down the taxiway.
I will always remember him as an optimist, a hard worker, and the kind of guy I hope my sons will be. He was one of the good guys.
I will miss him very much.
Bert and Anisa Jimenez
October 28, 2007
We are deeply saddened by your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Thomas Sorrow
October 28, 2007
We just found out. If we can help in any way, please call. Our deepest sympathies. Tom Sorrow, Helen Sorrow & Nathan Williams
HANK DAVIS
October 28, 2007
JONATHAN WAS MY NEIGHBOR BUT ALSO MY FRIEND. I LITERALLY THOUGHT I WOULD BE ILL WHEN I HEARD HE HAD BEEN KILLED.HE TRULY LOVED LIFE,AND SEEMED TO ENJOY IT GREATLY.HE HAD SO MANY INTREST BUT ALWAYS HAD TIME FOR A HELLO OR A CONVERSATION.HE TOOK A SCARED LITTLE PUPPY THAT WAS ABUSED FROM THE POUND (A THROW AWAY)AND TURNED HER INTO MY FRIEND "JUMPER"I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING HER EVERY DAY!SHE REMINDS ME OF JONATHAN STRONG,PROTECTIVE,CURIOUS BUT AS GENTEL AS A LAMB.....MARIHA YOU KNOW WE LOVE YOU AND WILL BE HERE WHEN EVERYONE ELSE HAS TO GO HOME. IF YOU EVER NEED US DAY OR NIGHT JUST CALL.IT IS HARD TO IMAGINE THAT I WILL NOT SEE HIS SMILING FACE OR HEAR THAT FRIENDLY BANTER FROM ACROSS THE STREET.GOD BLESS.
Jessica Zombek
October 28, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Rachel and Marc Julian
October 28, 2007
We are so very sorry. Please be assured that the Athens community will forever remember Jonathan and his contributions. I will miss having him hollar at me across the street every few weeks when I would stop by to visit his neighbor.
With love and support,
the Julian Family
Marc, Rachel, Anna Frances and Henry
Jonathon at a JAKYL concert, 50 degrees at 8 o'clock in the morning. Perfect time for a party!
October 28, 2007
Bob Suter
October 28, 2007
Jonathon was my father when I needed a Father, my boss when I needed a job, my big brother to watch me when I needed to let loose, and a little kid when I needed to be a little kid. He is my mentor, the one that believed in me when no one else would. Jonathon made the impossible possible for me and I will never forget that. He will live on though me; through us all, every decision I make I will console him inside me, and that will make me a better man. I am sorry I am not there with you all; if there is anything you need Mariah please don't hesitate to let me know. I will see you when I come home.
Love
Cpl Robert Suter
kyle nelson
October 27, 2007
Jonathan u where a good friend. I will miss u VERY much.
Bernstein Funeral Home
October 28, 2007
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Nickie Shore
October 27, 2007
I met Jonathan in late 1994. I was a teller in the remote drive-thru for Bank of America downtown. Jonathan had just started his parking business and was faithfully tending to the parking lot adjacent to my drive-thru window. During slow times, he would stand outside my window and we'd chat the day away. Many times he'd use my lane as a shelter from the rain. We became great friends. Although we lost touch over the years, I would run into him from time to time downtown and it was always so nice to see his smiling face again. Through the years, it seemed he never changed. I still think of him often. I can hardly imagine how many other people he touched with his genuine spirit.
Cheryl & David Bailey
October 27, 2007
We are deeply heartsick and saddened by the loss of Jonathan. You will continue to be a lighted path for your brothers and sisters,as well as your parents, and live on in their hearts forever.
Mitzi Prescott
October 27, 2007
Jonathan was a wonderful man and will be greatly missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Auto Age
October 27, 2007
Gods speed Brother, my thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family.
Brian Binkley and Family
Erma Shaw
October 27, 2007
Sometiems you feel that you're alone when in amilling crowd, the solitude envelops you within its chilling shourd. Sometimes you find yourself alone with darkness all around, you'd give your all for one small light, the path could be found. The reasond my be numerous that bring you loneliness- The loss of loves ones, health or friends on teh deep distress. Whwn overcome with darkness andd don't knoe what to do. ther is a light available-it's waiting just for you. The savior is the light you nees, He'll listen to your every prayer, just trust in Him today. The light of God shine ever bright, it brings both and peace: if you will follow where He leads. all loneliness will cease.
Jerry Dalton
October 27, 2007
Dear Terry and Wayne: I did not have the privilege of knowing Jonathan but the beautifully written and moving tribute speaks volumes about the person he became as an adult. I know in your sorrow you must be proud of him and the life he lived.
You are in my prayers and thoughts!
Monisa Smith
October 27, 2007
May Jesus Christ give you comfort in this sad time. Jonathan was a friend to all. I have fond memories of him at Main St/BB&T Bank where I worked with him for 10 years. He is like a star, that even though he is gone, his light will shine forever.
Melissa Minish-James
October 27, 2007
I have worked for Prestige for 4 yrs.Jonathan hired me b/c I was in law enforcement. When I approached him about hiring some of the people who I felt needed a chance. He immediatley agreed. He was a dedicated hard worker &, an amazing person.I remember his lean cuisines & diet cokes after many late nights at the camper(mobile parking command center & UGA football parking. He called him self the crazy man in the green hat. Jonathan became my friend &, was always doing things to make the world a better place. He always inquired about my children(I am a single mom of two boys)&,told me if I ever needed anything to let him know. Words can not express how much he will be missed. You are in my thoughts & prayers. -Melissa James(ACC Lot Captain)-Sentinel Probation
John Trimble
October 27, 2007
You will never get over the loss, but God will see you through, as He
has promised. Our love,
John and Jane
John Dove
October 27, 2007
This shocks and saddens me to hear of Jonathan's passing. When you thought of finding a parking space on weekend nights in downtown Athens, you thought of Jonathan. Jonathan is and always will be an Athens Icon. Rest in peace my friend.
jimmy & suzette fincher
October 27, 2007
Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Pamela Folger
October 27, 2007
Jonathan was such a great friend! I loved him and being around him was such a pleasure. My deepest sympathy to his family. He will be missed so much in this community. Jonathan will still be with us at all of the home games!
CYCLE WORLD OF ATHENS
October 26, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
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