OBITUARY
Lt. Col. Francis L. Pieri, Jr., USMC Retired
April 4, 1932 – March 15, 2013
Francis (Frank) Pieri, Jr., Lt Col., USMC Retired, completed his tour of duty on earth and reported to his Heavenly Father on the 15 day of March 2013. His parents, Francis L. Pieri Sr. and Margaret Dowling Pieri received their first of six sons on 4 April, 1932. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Karen, brothers Paul, Charles, Joseph, and his wife of fifty-five years, Betty Ann Burns the mother of their three daughters.
During his senior year at St. Thomas High School, Frank enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve April 1950 and reported for active duty in July of that same year. After Combat Training at Camp Pendleton he reported to “B” Company, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Marine Division in Mason, Korea, where PFC Pieri was in the Machine Gun Platoon of Baker Company Fifth Marines. As Cpl. Pieri continued to advance his military career he served his country with assignments as Drill Instructor at Paris Island, South Carolina, as Sgt. Pieri for recruiting duty in New Orleans/Baton Rouge, Louisiana. His next assignment was to attend the Airborne Interceptors Operators (AIO) school at Cherry Point, North Carolina. He finished first with the best grades ever recorded for the AIO School. Upon completion Staff Sgt. Pieri received his AIO Wings and reported to flying duties as a Radar Intercept Operator. During this job as a radar operator, Staff Sergeant Pieri served in VMF(N)-531 Cherry Point, North Carolina and VMF(N)-513 Atsugi, Japan. From Japan he was assigned to VMCJ-3 at El Toro, California as an Electronic Countermeasures Operator in the F3D-2Q. In February of 1959 Gunnery Sergeant Pieri was selected for the Meritorious NCO Officer Candidate School at Quantico, Virginia. After graduating first in his class, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant at Quantico, Virginia.
Following his commission, Lieutenant Pieri entered The Basic School (TBS) at Quantico, Virginia, (finishing second in his class) then reported to NAS Pensacola, Florida and NAS Kingsville, Texas for flight school. Again graduating with honors, he received his Naval Aviator Wings in July of 1961. At that time he was ordered to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing at El Toro, California and was assigned to the first Marine F4 Phantom Squadron VMFA -314. He served in that Squadron in various capacities until November, 1964, when Captain Pieri reported to Beeville, TX as a flight instructor and Landing Signal Officer. In 1966 he was ordered to exchange duty with the Royal Air Force and was assigned to RAF Squadron No. 23 at Leuchars, Fife, Scotland. During his tour with the RAF he was promoted to Major and was assigned as one of the Flight Commanders within the Squadron. In August, 1968 Major Pieri was ordered to Vietnam. During his Vietnam Tour he flew over 216 missions. Upon his completion of his Vietnam Tour he was ordered to the Amphibious Warfare School (AWS) at Quantico, Virginia. Upon completion of that course, he was assigned to Headquarters Marine Corps (HQMC) and served in the G3 as an Operations Officer in the Operations Branch.
In 1972 Major Pieri was selected for the College Degree Program at George Washington University. He graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science Degree and accepted into the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society. He was then ordered to the First Marine Aircraft Wing at Iwakuni, Japan where he served as the Wing NATOPS Officer and Wing LSO for his entire tour. In 1975 he was ordered to NAVAIRSYSCOM as the Assistant Program Manager Logistics for the Harrier Program. Lt. Col. Pieri served in this capacity until 1979 when he retired from the Marine Corps.
During his Military flying career Lt. Col. Pieri has logged approximately 5,000 hours as a pilot and RO in 31 various types of American, British and French tactical fixed wing aircraft.
His personal Military decorations include the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Meritorious Service Medal, Single Strike Air Medal, 16 Strike/Flight Air Medals, the Navy Commendation Medal with Combat “V”, three Purple Hearts, two Marine Enlisted Good Conduct Medals and numerous other awards. Upon his retirement from the Marine Corps Lt. Col. Pieri worked for Smiths Industries Aerospace in Clearwater, Florida as the Program Manager of various Harrier Programs until he retired as the Director of Military Programs. Upon retirement from Smiths he formed his own consulting company PBA, Inc. until a final retirement in 2004.
Frank was a Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, He was a past Faithful Navigator of his previous council in Florida. Presently he was affiliated with Council #6557and Our Lady of the Pines Assembly #1759
Frank started the “Second Chapter” to his life when he returned to Houston and on September 25, 2010 married his high school sweetheart the former Billie Jean Ayres Proctor. While their time together was too short they spent it wisely, loving, laughing, and making new memories. After being blessed in previous marriages Frank and Billie were ever thankful God blessed them a second time by reuniting them after sixty-one years.
Surviving Frank are his wife Billie, daughters Kathleen and Kristen, brothers Mickey, and Tommy, 7 grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be held from 5:00-8:00 p.m., with a rosary at 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 20, 2013, in the Chapel of Earthman Resthaven. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am., Thursday, March 21, 2013 at Sts. Simon and Jude Catholic Church, 26777 Glen Loch Dr., The Woodlands, TX 77381 with the rite of committal to follow at Earthman Resthaven Cemetery.
Services
- Visitation Wednesday, March 20, 2013
- Rosary Wednesday, March 20, 2013
- Mass of Christian Burial Thursday, March 21, 2013
REMEMBERING
Lt. Col. Francis L. Pieri, Jr., USMC Retired
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RECEIVE UPDATESMike Standish
February 21, 2014
Frank extended great hospitality to me when I visited Smith's in Clearwater from Cheltenham UK in the early eighties to support the AV-8B HUD. He invited me to his newly built home, where I helped him install a new CB antenna onto his RV which was parked "semi-underground" in his custom garage !!!
Frank and Betty entertained me for a weekend and I have never forgotten their kindness....SIC TRANSIT GLORIA MUNDI
April Johanford-Guzman
May 17, 2013
Rip to uncle frank from April & Steven grandchildren of Jack Elwood Thetford. Sorry we haven't been able to see you or he family over the years, but we thought of you often. U will be missed & say hi to our grandpa Jack &aunt betty and grandma audrey. Rip sir.
Jay Clark
April 3, 2013
I met Frank at Smiths Aerospace in Clearwater. He was genuine and always nice to me. We sat with Frank and Betty at a Smiths Christmas party in 2003 and had a great time. May he rest in peace.
Gerald Pappa
March 24, 2013
I met Frank for the first time at our Knights of Columbus Meeting @ Espiritu Santo in Safety Harbor, Florida. I knew from the start that Frank was a special person, and as I got to know him, I quickly found out what a gentle caring man he was. When I made my 4th Degree, Frank was our host, and once again proved what to me what being a member of the 4th Degree was all about. We had the privilege of knowing Betty before her passing, and then Billie before she and Frank moved to Texas, what wonderful people. Holly and I would like to offer Billie and the entire Pieri family our deepest sympathy, Frank will be missed. God Bless, Holly and Jerry Pappa
Duke Savage
March 24, 2013
During Frank's NAVAIR tour and afterward, he was a champion for the AV-8 Harrier. Frank led the logistical charge for the USMC Harrier readiness during the critical 70's. Frank did more for the Harrier community than any Marine I know. He was tenacious, professional, loyal and a true friend.
Bob Kennedy
March 23, 2013
I met Frank over 35 years ago. He was my boss, teacher, mentor, and, most importantly, a true friend. He demanded the best from those he worked with, and, in return, gave his best to them. He has left us with wonderful memories that won't be diminished by time.
God bless and keep Frank, his family and friends.
I am ever thankful for the pleasure of having Frank as a friend.
Steph and Lin How
March 23, 2013
Rest in Peace Frank, fond and happy memories of the times we spent with you and Betty. Thoughts with Billie and your family
AnnieVive Wilson
March 22, 2013
Dear Billie Jean,
Alice called me this morning to tell me of Frances'passing. I am so sorry for your loss but am happy that your three years with him brought you happiness. I will pray for you and think of you often. Love AnnieVive. If you would like to talk my number is 281-485-5337
Justin & Scharlene Fox
March 20, 2013
Dear Billie: We share in your grief, as well as in your joyous memories, of your "sweetheart," as you affectionately called Frank. He indeed was a true gentleman, committed Christian, and dedicated military hero. We were honored to know Frank for the brief time that he lived in The Woodlands. May his soul rest in peace!
John Papa
March 20, 2013
We remember Frank as a Friend, Patriot, and Past Faithful Navigator of our Knights of Columbus Assembly. Frank would always remind us at the passing of a Brother Knight that a Brother Knight should never depart this world alone. Today, though seperated by distance, we stand with Frank as he makes his way to his heavenly reward.
Bless you Sir Knight and God Speed,
John Papa
Faithful Navigator
K of C Assembly 2474
Safety Harbor FL
Dave Christman
March 20, 2013
It was always a pleasure to work on one of Frank's projects for the "Commander" was definitely a no nonsense kind of guy that got things done. Rest in Peace my friend. My deepest condolences to Frank's family.
dan fazioli
March 20, 2013
"I had the privilege of working with Frank for more than 25 years @ SI. Frank and I were hired on the same day @ SI. I knew from the moment that I first met Frank that he was a one of a kind man, meaning that: "He was as Good as the BEST and Better than the Rest." I affectionately always referred to Frank, as "The Colonel." He was so much more than an officer and a gentlemen. As a matter of fact, Frank consistently demonstrated "personal" integrity and "professional" integrity character qualities that were a challenge to mimic. The Lord has not made too many men like Frank! He will be missed. My deepest sympathy to his family and friends. Very best regards,.......faz (Mt. Airy, NC)
March 20, 2013
Frank and I worked together @ SI for more than 25 years. We were hired @ SI on the same day. From the moment that I met Frank, I knew that he was an exceptional man in many ways. "The Colonel" as I affectionately called him, was in my opinion "As Good as the BEST and Better than the Rest." In essence, Frank was the kind of man who consistently demonstrated "personal" integrity and "professional" integrity without exception. The Lord has not made too many men like Frank. He will be missed greatly. Very best regards, faz....(Mt. Airy, NC)
Beverly Stewart Poineau
March 20, 2013
Frank was my Boss at NAVAIR and was always the best person in the world.He was my first exposure to the Marines and what a role model he was. He gave me away at my Wedding 24 years ago when my own Father was too ill to travel. Colonel P, I miss you and you will always be in my heart.
Will Martin
March 20, 2013
Frank was one of the "Good Guys" I had the honor to work with at Smiths. My heartfelt condolences to his families.
March 20, 2013
Frank was my instructor in advanced jets. Great instructor and person. Very patient. He was one of the good guys that everyone liked to be around.
Bill Rath, Scott, AR
Paul Hemingway
March 19, 2013
Frank Pieri was a person who had a deep respect for people that were honest, truthful lived up to the Marine Corp ethics. He once gave to a token of friendship that with remain on my wall till I die. It was "Tribute" by Teddy Roosevelt and it was Frank's platform. My God bless you and keep you. You were a tribute to this land.
Joseph Kurdell
March 19, 2013
In behalf of your many friends at SMITHS, we wish you peace and we are thankful for the time we shared with you and your family.
Respectfully,
Joseph Kurdell
eric cornelius
March 19, 2013
We are so happy to have known Frank, he was a wonderful man and lived a full life. He will be missed. Love, Eric and Brittany Cornelius
Ed McMenamy
March 19, 2013
'Jose' was an exceptional OpsO in 334. He always had an example to cite to illustrate any situation.....and he had an incredible wealth of experiences to draw upon. He was mindful of the mission but always sensitive to the needs of his people....and a pretty good fighter pilot to boot. Semper Fi!
Daniel Beeson
March 19, 2013
From one Marine to another.... Semper Fi Colonel !!!
March 19, 2013
The Blot Family has lost a true friend and Marine after 35 years of friendship-great times-happy times! We will keep those beautiful memories close to our heart! He was truly blessed to have Billi with him for the past 2 and 1/2 years!
Harry & Marie Blot-New Bern,NC
March 19, 2013
Dear Billie, I didn't know Frank, but do know you. The man you would have loved for all these years had to be "Mr. Wonderful". My love and prayers are being sent daily. Love does sustain. xoxoxo Mary Pick Crested Butte, CO
Bruce & Shaine Harvester
March 19, 2013
Billie and all the Pieri Family,
You have lost a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and we have lost a dear and good friend.
I knew Frank for over 20 years and worked closely with him for 15 of those years at Smiths Aerospace. He was "Best Man" at my marriage to Shaine. Frank was a credit to the USMC and it was a privilege to be counted among his many friends.
You know you have our deepest sympathy and our love as well.
SEMPER FI, Jose.
Bruce and Shaine Harvester
Dunedin, Florida
Kathleen Pieri Coleman
March 19, 2013
For the past 53 years I have had the best Dad that any young lady would have love to have. I was able to do more things with you daddy then most young ladies of my time. You teaching me things that no one could have. How to change a hose in my car. Flying the the do's and dont's. Math, both of us working out the letters and number (PEMDAS) will always bring a smile to me.Watching movies that we have seen 100 and 100 of times and cry. TJ and Colin will miss you just as much.
Love you Kathy #1
March 18, 2013
It was my pleasure and utmost honor to have worked with Frank during his time at NAVAIR and through his entire time with Smiths. I will miss him but will have many fond memories that I will cherish. My thoughts and prayers are with Frank's entire family in their time of grief.
Respectfully,
Dale Carmichael (Franklin, NC)
Tom Sullivan
March 18, 2013
I'll always remember Frank as a determined and courageous pilot from my time flying with him while attached to VMFA 334. It was my pleasure to have known him.
Don Jackson
March 18, 2013
I was fortunate to serve with "Jose" in Chu Lai, South Vietnam in Marine Fighter Attack Squadron-334. Frank was the number 3 guy in the squadron next to the XO and the CO. As the Operations Officer, he constantly kept us on our toes and challenged our combat skills. I'm grateful for his superb leadership. We will always remember this leader of men and look forward to a joyous reunion in the afterlife.
Christopher Staley
March 18, 2013
I can still see Frank's face like it was only yesterday… from my days in ‘334'. As Buc Taber has noted, he was a truly-exceptional, generous & kind-hearted gentleman. Further, his word was his bond: you always knew exactly where you stood, & you could always count on him.
So 'Rest in Peace', Frank, & Godspeed: you were always everything that's decent & noble.
George Menk
March 18, 2013
I served with Maj. Pieri in VMFA334 and remember his as hard working, kind and good pilot. I saw him a couple of years ago and he had not changed, smiled that fox smile, asked about me and my family, never about himself and we had a laugh. I am a much wiser and happier person having known and served with him. My condolences and best wishes for his family. George Menk
Mari Jozwiak & Family
March 18, 2013
Dear Billie; We are so sorry for your loss but we know that Frank is now at peace with his Eternal Father. You are always in our thoughts amd prayers.
Charles Bell
March 18, 2013
Billie, Carolyn and I send our condolences for your loss. You are in our prayers. We know you added much to Franks` life these past three years as he did to yours. It was a privilege to serve with Frank in VMFA 314 and again to share time in Beeville with Frank. A coincidence occured there when Frank was Runway Duty Office the day I "lite" up the runway with an F-ll. WOW some fantastic memories. Wonderful memories will always be a part of us who knew Frank!!
God bless and keep you during these difficult days.
S/F
Carolyn and Charles Bell
Mary Sleppy
March 18, 2013
Frank was a good man...
Nicole Heffner
March 18, 2013
"There are no goodbyes for us.
Wherever you are, you will always be in our hearts."
-- Mahatma Gandhi
James (Jim) Sawyer
March 18, 2013
Frank was a great Marine and Officer. I served with him when he joined 23 Sqn RAF in 1966 on exchange duty and he was an excellent representative of his nation and a fine, skilled
fighter pilot.
Rest in peace old buddy. We will miss you.
March 18, 2013
Dear Billie:
Frank`s only gone ahead of you, not just left you behind. Although you can`t be with him right now, he lives in your heart and in your mind. The day will come when you`ll meet again and the two of you will walk forever hand to hand
Miguel and Argelia
March 18, 2013
Dear Billie:
He`s only gone ahead of you, not just left you behind. Although you can`t be with him right now, he lives in your heart and in your mind. The day will come when you`ll meet again and the two of you will walk forever hand to hand.
Sincerely Argelia and Miguel
Noreen Stavinoha
March 17, 2013
Remembering your great love story today and always.
March 17, 2013
Billie;
Death brings a heart ache no one can heal. Love brings memories no one can steal. Marsha and I are deeply affected by your loss.
May he rest in peace, and peace be with you.
Bob and Marsha
FROM THE FAMILY
IN THE CARE OF