Thomas Benton Pierce, 82, of Smiths Creek passed away Friday, August 4, 2023.
He was born June 20, 1941 in Lincoln Park to the late George and Norma Pierce. He married Ruth Bernice Ballinger on July 4, 1976 in a canoe on the Au Sable River. She preceded him in death on December 5, 2019.
After serving four years in the United States Army, and working at a local gas station, he began a 31-year career at Chrysler Corporation. He relocated to Smiths Creek in the 70’s where he became a legend.
In 1995, Thomas retired and spent his time enjoying many hobbies. He was President of the Tri-county Eagles Flight Club. He vacationed in his RV, shot pool and was always up for a “cold one” at the Pink Elephant. He loved daily coffee at the red barn and hanging out at the recruiters. When he was not busy, you could find him on the couch with his dog, Jack, watching Turner Classic movies. He lived a full life, not a day wasted.
Thomas liked helping others, putting together care packages for soldiers overseas, cooking for everyone and donating to charitable organizations. He loved to rescue dogs and always said, “take the one nobody wants”.
He is survived by his children, Thomas (Cindi) Pierce, Vicki Haske, Tina (Russell) Ball and Frank (Patty) Pierce; many beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other extended family; and his beloved dog, One Eyed Jack. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Faye Stone and Gloria Jenkins; and brothers, George and Don Pierce.
Visitation will be 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, August 8, 2023 in the Marysville Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 9, 2023 in the Marysville Funeral Home. Dr. Joseph Baunoch will officiate. Military honors will be conducted under the auspices of the U.S. Army and the St. Clair County Allied Veterans Honor Guard.
Burial will be in Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Blue Water Area Humane Society. To send condolences, visit marysvillefuneralhome.com
Rest in peace Dad.
“The soldier is the Army. No Army is better than its soldiers. The soldier is also a citizen. In fact, the highest obligation and privilege of citizenship is that of bearing arms for one’s Country.”
