Lakeland, FL – Surrounded by the presence and love of the family he held so dear, on July 30, 2016, after a courageous year-long battle with cancer, Bill took his last breath and passed peacefully. True to his nature, he was positive and cheerful to the end.
Born to William Leslie and Dorothy (Baker) Pierson on April 26, 1947, Bill was raised on the family farm in Orford, NH where he learned the value of hard work and the importance of family and community. He attended Orford Schools and created many fond memories with dear friends.
“Billy Backhoe” was a boy at heart - he loved to play with tractors and dig in the dirt! After years of working for others, in 1981 he began his own business, Pierson Excavating, in Fairlee, VT. Like everything in his life, he ran his business with passion, dedication and a tireless work ethic until his retirement in 2010.
Bill was as honest as the day was long and his impeccable integrity made him a strong and truly respected leader. After 24 years of military service, both active duty Army and Vermont National Guard, he retired with the highest enlisted rank of Command Sergeant Major. In addition, he was a most dedicated and valued member of the Fairlee Fire Department for over 30 years, seven of which he served as Chief.
With roots firmly planted in Vermont, Bill eventually decided to try his wings and relocated to Florida where he volunteered as an ‘Early Bird’ for 14 years at the Sun ‘n Fun International Fly In and Air Museum. No matter where he was, he somehow always managed to find a tractor to operate!
Above all else, Bill cherished his family. He leaves behind his best friend and wife of 36 years, Judith (Patton) Pierson, sons Todd and wife Janna, Chad and wife Mary, a daughter Amy and husband Heath, all of Fairlee, VT, seven grandchildren who will miss their Pappy and “The World’s Greatest Bumpa”, four great-grandchildren, sisters Nettie Blake and Carol Gordon, both of Coldwater, OH, and countless friends that will always remember his bright smile, twinkling eyes and infectious laughter.
He was predeceased by his parents, William L. Pierson and Dorothy (Baker) Pierson, daughter Rachel Adams, and many others who had made their journey to Heaven and were ready to greet him upon his arrival. Although he had a devilish side, Bill had the heart of an angel and soars with them now.
As Bill was blessed with the opportunity to be part of two caring communities, there will be ‘Celebration of Life’ gatherings in both Vermont and Florida at later dates.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Fairlee Fire Brigade, P.O. Box 53, Fairlee, VT 05045
Arrangements under the direction of National Cremation and Burial Society, Oviedo, FL.
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