Cordell Pierce, age 93,passed from this life on April 1. 2020, at his residence in Mooresville, TN.
He was a native of Giles County, born on November 26, 1926 to Daniel Levi Pierce and Jesse Pinkie Harris Pierce. He married Thelma Louise Francis, his wife of 65 years, who was the love of his life.
He served in World War II in the Merchant Marines and the US Air Force. After his discharge from the Air Force, he used the GI Bill to further his education, graduating from Lipscomb College with a Bachelor of Science degree and earning a Master's degree from Peabody College. He had a long career as an educator and administrator in the Metro Nashville school system. He loved sports, playing football, basketball, and baseball in high school and basketball at Martin Methodist College. He loved golf and was fortunate to play into his 90's. He was truly a "renaissance" man who could do almost anything. He painted, wrote, and appreciated the arts, science, and religion.
He was a devoted husband and father, and a good friend and neighbor to many. To all his family, friends, and acquaintances, he exemplified the principles of Christ in his demeanor and actions. He was gentle, kind, and truly a gentleman in every aspect of his life. He was a dedicated and faithful member of the Hickory Heights Church of Christ, where he served as a deacon for some time.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel L. and Pinkie Pierce, his wife, Thelma Francis Pierce, and a brother, Larry Pierce. He is survived by his sister, Martha Daily of Pulaski, TN, a daughter, Marsha (Tony) Lancaster of Lewisburg, TN, son, David (Kelly) Pierce of Houston, TX, grandsons, Jason Lancaster, Matt (Lori) Lancaster, Evan (Tammy) Lancaster, David (Anya) Pierce, Branson (Rachael) Pierce, one granddaughter, Rachel (Nathan) Hale, and great-grandchildren Hunter Lancaster, Ella Lancaster, Jessa Lancaster, Bethany Lancaster, Pierce Lancaster, Stella Pierce, Etta Pierce, Mason Pierce, Arlo Pierce and Easton Pierce.
A private family graveside service will be held on Wednesday, April 2, 2020 at Maplewood Cemetery in Pulaski, TN.
Words of condolences may be sent to the family at www.londonfuneralhomes.com.
London Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family with their arrangements.