William "W.J." Pierson

William James (W.J.) Pierson, age 90, died on September 23 in Jacksonville. He was born and raised in Quincy, FL and moved to Jacksonville at age 17 to work for the A&P Food Stores where he worked for 48 years until his retirement. For almost 30 years he was an active and loyal member for the York Scottish Rites (32nd degree) with the Albert J. Russell Lodge and as a Shriner with the Morocco Temple. He was a frequent volunteer with the Shrine and their charitable activities and was happiest when working with the Concession Stand and playing in the Oriental Band. He was a member of Soldiers of the Cross of Christ Church in Arlington.

W.J. was preceded in death by his six siblings, Essie, George, Patsy, Shorty, Winona, and Harry. He is survived by niece Deborah (Bass) Bowden and nephews Alfred and Michael Bass. He will also be missed by his loving caregiver, Tirsa Rodriguez and pet poodle, Yazzie.

A Funeral Service will be held Friday, September 27 at the Morocco Shrine Temple in the Activities Room at 2:00PM with Morocco Shrine Chaplain Samuel Bennett and Pastor Marcos Gutierrez officiating. Interment will be Monday, September 30 at Flat Creek Cemetery in Quincy, FL. Memorial Contributions can be made in W.J.’s name to the Morocco Shrine Children’s Charities, 3800 St. John’s Bluff Rd. Jacksonville, FL 32224

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin 11801 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32223 www.hgmandarin.com (904)288-0025.