Larry S Pierson

September 1, 1947 – July 3, 2026

With heavy hearts, but with the hope and assurance found in Jesus Christ, we celebrate the life of Larry Pierson, who entered the presence of his Savior after a life devoted to faith, family, and serving others.

Larry was born on September 1, 1947, to Joe and Emma Lea Pierson. He graduated from John Tyler High School in 1965 and went on to graduate from Stephen F. Austin State University with degrees in Medical Technology and Chemistry.

Larry began his career as a Medical Technologist, where he met the love of his life, Marianne. Together they built a beautiful marriage that spanned 54 years, rooted in faith, love, and unwavering commitment to one another. Throughout his career, Larry served as Director of the Laboratory in Tyler and Longview before concluding his professional journey with SmithKline Beecham, now known as Quest Diagnostics.

While Larry was accomplished professionally, those who knew him best will remember him not for his titles, but for his character. His character matched his faith. He was humble, gentle, dependable, and a friend to everyone he met. He never sought recognition, always willing to encourage others, lend a helping hand, or quietly serve without expecting anything in return.

Larry never met a stranger. Whether he was walking the dogs, shopping at Walmart, or simply going about his day, he had a remarkable gift for turning chance encounters into lasting friendships. He genuinely loved people, and people naturally loved him in return. His integrity, kindness, and spirit earned the respect and affection of coworkers, neighbors, church family, and countless friends.

Larry’s faith in Christ was the foundation of his life. He accepted Christ under the ministry of Brother Johnny Beard at Colonial Hills Baptist Church, where he was an active and devoted member. He later spent many years worshiping at Green Acres Baptist Church. His faith wasn’t reserved for Sundays ~ it was evident in the way he treated people with kindness, grace, patience, and genuine compassion every day.

Of all the roles Larry held in life, his favorite was being “Papa.” Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his family. He was a steady source of wisdom, encouragement, and unconditional love, always making those around him feel safe, valued, and deeply loved.

His grandson, Kevin McKain, held an especially treasured place in his heart. Larry and Kevin shared the same quick wit and unique sense of humor. Larry affectionately nicknamed him “Snake,” after Snake Plissken, and delighted in reading Jabberwocky to him time and time again, creating memories that will be cherished forever. He watched Kevin grow into an exceptional man and could not have been more proud of the person he became. The love they shared was one of Larry’s greatest blessings.

Larry was also an incredible big brother. The bond he shared with Randy and Karen was one of lifelong love, loyalty, and friendship. In his final days, they remained faithfully by his side, surrounding him with the same devotion that had defined their relationship throughout their lives. Their unwavering love was a beautiful testament to the closeness of their family.

Even through life’s greatest trials, Larry never stopped fighting. Yet through every challenge, he remained gentle, grateful, and unwavering in his trust in God. He faced each day with strength, courage, and a faith that never wavered. His life was a testimony that faith is not only something we profess, but something we live. Larry didn’t just believe in Christ—he reflected Him in the way he loved, served, forgave, and cared for others.

Larry was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Joe and Emma Lea Pierson, and by his precious daughter, Kim Pierson, whom he loved dearly.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Marianne Pierson; his daughter, Missy Arnold, and her husband, James Arnold; his beloved grandson, Kevin McKain; his brother, Randy Pierson, and wife, Shelia Pierson; his sister, Karen Morriss, and her husband, Steve Morriss; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Larry loved God, his family, and his country. He lived a life of significance, reminding all who knew him that greatness is found not in recognition, but in faithfully loving God and loving people. The measure of Larry’s life is not found in the positions he held, but in the countless lives he quietly touched through his kindness, humility, unwavering faith, and unconditional love. If you ever met Larry, you left knowing you mattered. That is the legacy he leaves behind.

Larry treasured the relationships he built throughout his life, especially with his extended family. He shared a special bond with his brother-in-law, Tracy Cawthon, whose friendship and love meant so much to him. Their reunion in Heaven is one his family finds great comfort in imagining.

Our family would like to express our deepest gratitude to Kaleisa and the entire Forget Me Knot family. Your extraordinary compassion, dignity, and love transformed what could have been an incredibly difficult season into one filled with peace, comfort, and genuine care. You loved Larry as if he were your own, and you cared for our entire family with grace beyond measure. We will forever be grateful for your kindness and the countless ways you honored him throughout his journey.

While our hearts ache with his absence, we find peace in knowing Larry is completely healed, reunited with his precious daughter, Kim, and those who have gone before him, and forever in the presence of the Lord he faithfully served.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

We love you, Daddy. Thank you for showing us what it means to love God, love people, and finish the race well. Until we meet again.

A Gathering for Larry will begin at 9:30 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 15, followed by a Service of Celebration at 10 a.m. in the Chapel of Lloyd James Funeral Home with Bro. Mike Blume officiating. He will be laid to rest at Bullard Cemetery.