James David Pierce

age 81 of Vassar, died Thursday, February 21, 2019, at his home. The Funeral service will take place, Wednesday, February 27, 2019, at 11:00 am Martin Funeral Home in Vassar with burial to follow at Riverside Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the Martin Funeral Home in Vassar on Tuesday, from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm and on Wednesday, from 10:00 am until time of service at 11:00 am. Jim was born January 31, 1938, in Saginaw, Michigan, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas and Jessie (Smith) Pierce. Raised in Vassar, he graduated from Vassar High School in 1957. He and Lavone Gibbs were united in marriage, and she predeceased him in 2009. Jim worked for Gredy Foundry for 30 years, retiring in 1988. He enjoyed ice fishing, hunting, playing cards, camping, and spending time with his family. Jim is known for his quick wit and his great sense of humor. Left to cherish his memory are his children, Jim Pierce, and Tammy Jo Pierce; three grandchildren, Jeremy and wife, Sam Pierce, Steven Jr., and wife, Courtney Owens, and Shannon and husband Curtis Morey; 8 great-grandchildren; sisters, Jessie Mueller and Margery O'Neil; and sister in law, Cheryl and husband, Sonny Sage. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Lavone; daughter, Terri Herline; brothers, William R. Pierce and Thomas H. Pierce; and sister, Kathleen Asher.