Dr. Walter Ray Pierce Sr.

Born in Tylertown, Mississippi on May 15, 1946 to William Esco Pierce and Ophelia Primes Pierce. He grew up in Franklinton, Louisiana, but was a longtime resident of Poplarville, Mississippi. He was a graduate from Pine High School, Liberty University and Slidell Seminary. Walter was a Dad, a husband, Paw Paw and Great Paw Paw. He was a Pastor, he pastored College Heights Baptist Church for over 30 years, an autoparts manager, a mechanic. He had fixed half the town's vehicles, so if your check engine light comes on today, just know Heaven finally got its mechanic back. He was a mentor and a dear friend to so many. He married the love of his life, Carolyn Dykes Pierce in 1966. They spent 56 beautiful years together and had two children. After her death he married Betty Ann Starkey Pierce. As a family, we are so thankful for Aunt Betty Ann. The last four years were good years for him through his sickness.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Carolyn, in 2022. Also by his parents, William Esco Pierce and Ophelia Pierce; three brothers, James, Junior and John.

Left to forever cherish his memory, his wife, Betty Ann; two children, Pam Stewart (Clark) and Walter, Jr. (Denise); four grandchildren, Matthew Stewart (Gabby), Caleb Stewart (Bailey), Taylor Mitchell (Kenneth) and Camryn Strahan (Tyler); six great-grandchildren, Brayson, Annlee Jo, Piercen, Hoyt, Canon and Audrey; one sister, Annise Smith (Larry); nieces and nephews and his extended family with Aunt Betty Ann.

Dad was so loving and so kind - He loved so big. He touched so many lives. Always witnessing, encouraging or admonishing (if needed). He received his Doctorates from Slidell Seminary. He was a brilliant man of God's word. So many got a good morning text with scripture every day that always ended with "Praying for UU" How blessed you were if you are one of the ones that he ever met. Such wisdom, such strength, such grace and such love!! And so greatly missed. Though we have to say goodby in this world, we know we will meet again in Heaven, where you have seen Jesus and reunited with Mama. We grieve, but we grieve with hope. See you in a little while.

Family and friends are invited to attend Dr. Walter's visitation on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm at College Heights Baptist Church, 217 Hwy 11 North, Poplarville, Mississippi. Visitation will also be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at College Heights Baptist Church, from 9:00 am until 11:00 am. His funeral service will begin at 11:00 am. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, Poplarville, Mississippi with Matthew Stewart, Caleb Stewart, Tyler Strahan, Kenneth Mitchell, Sam Pierce, Dwayne Pierce and Brayson Mitchell serving as pallbearers.