Augustus Skelton Pierce

Warwick- Pierce, Augustus S., "Billy Miller", 89, of Warwick Ave, died peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday. He was the husband of the late Rita (Smith) Pierce. Loveable companion of Gloria Hughes. He was a minimum housing inspector for the City of Warwick before retiring in 1980. He was a Navy Veteran of World War II. A popular entertainer, he worked with such stars as Red Skelton, Jackie Gleason, Jimmy Durante and many more. He wrote and directed several LaSalle Academy musical and minstrels in the 1950's. His favorite saying was "Laugh it Up!" He was the father of Kenneth F. Pierce, Nancy Stoves, Edmund Pierce, Sr., all of Warwick and the late Robert and Dennis Pierce. He leaves behind four grandchildren, Michael Stoves, Sarah Stoves, Edmund Pierce, Jr., and Lorra-Lee Lagaos and several great grandchildren. His funeral will be held on Tuesday at 8:30 am from the Russell J. Boyle & Son Funeral Home, 142 Centerville Rd. Warwick. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am in St. Kevin Church, Sandy Lane, Warwick. Burial, with military honors, will be in the RI Veterans Cemetery, Exeter. Visiting hours, Monday, 4-8 pm. Donations to Insight, 43 Jefferson Blvd. Warwick, RI 02888, in his memory would be appreciated.