Melvin Thomas Pierce Jr.

Retired Knoxville Police Dept. Captain Melvin Thomas Pierce, Jr., departed this life on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at home surrounded by family. Melvin was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, cousin and friend known for his warmth, kindness, strength and sense of humor. He was a cherished family member and friend of the community.

Born on September 11, 1941, to parents Melvin Thomas Pierce, Sr., and Lena Warren Pierce, Melvin grew up in the Rocky Hill area of Knoxville, TN. He developed a passion for serving others within the community at an early age by participating in the safety patrol program at Rocky Hill Middle School. Melvin graduated from Bearden High School, where his classmates voted him “Most Fun Loving” during his Senior year. He also met the love of his life, Mary Ann Ogle Pierce, in high school. They married on September 28, 1962. He attended the University of Tennessee and was employed at Eastern State Hospital as an Activities Facilitator for a brief time before starting his career in law enforcement at the Knoxville Police Department in 1963.

Melvin’s 32-year career with KPD involved a range of positions, ranks and interests, as well as supporting youth in the community through various sports, coaching, counseling and mentoring programs. His gentle, but firm, demeanor remained the same in every capacity throughout his years of service. Melvin cared deeply for his family and friends and was always ready to support those around him. His generosity and readiness to assist others have made a significant and enduring contribution to many.

Melvin leaves behind to cherish his memory, his wife of 63 years, Mary; daughter, Melinda “Mindy” Meade (Steve) of Greeneville, TN; daughter, Laura Wright (Pete) and son, Melvin Pierce III (Gina), all of Knoxville; grandchildren, Andrew, Ben, Michelle, Hailey, Gavin, Macie and Paul; great grandchildren, Braydyn, Sophia, Presley, Luka, Harper and Harvey. He is also survived by brother, James Pierce (Pat), sister, Gail Daugherty (Ron), many beloved brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, hunting buddies and his Zion Cornerstone Church family. Melvin is preceded in death by his parents and his father and mother-in- law, Bruce and Katherine Ogle.

Although he will be greatly missed by many, his legacy and the memories he created will always stay with us.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and honor of Melvin at a memorial service on Friday, November 14, 2025 at Berry Highland Memorial (5315 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919), beginning at 4:00 PM. Light refreshments will be served from 4:00 to 6:00 PM and the service will begin at 6:00 PM. The graveside service and burial will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025 in Berry Highland Memorial Cemetery at 11:00 AM, with Rev. Dr. Tim Erskine officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to Alzheimer’s Tennessee, University of Tennessee Hospice or the Pat Summitt Foundation.

May Melvin rest in peace and may the love he shared continue to inspire us all.

Family and friends are invited to share condolences and memories with the family at www.berryhighlandmemorial.com