STEPHEN PIERCE

STEPHEN PIERCE was born on April 4, 1935 to Louise and Robert Pierce in New Orleans, Louisiana. He was the fourth of six children born to this union. Stephen was formerly educated in New Orleans, LA, including attending Booker T. Washington High School. Shortly after graduating, Stephen chose to serve his country honorably in the United States Navy.

Stephen retired from the United States Navy after spending over 20 years serving his country. He later work at the Naval Supply Station as a Warehouse Associate. During his tour of duty, Stephen worked as a Materials Handler. He also looked out for his fellow seaman and was a well-respected barber during his tenure in the Navy.   Stephen received many honors in the Navy and had the fortunate opportunity to travel all over the world. By sheer fate, he decided to settle down in San Diego, and that is where he met the love of his life, Ruby Jones.

Stephen and Ruby married in 1958 and spent 56 wonderful years together. From their union, they raised eight children: Douglas, Amelia, Edith, Ronald, Tira, Kemberly, Stephen, and Cecilia. Stephen and Ruby were also blessed with 19 grandchildren, a growing count of great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, all of whom Stephen loved dearly. “PaPa” as the kids called him, was notorious for providing treats like fruit snacks, Sunny Delight and Red Vines to the kids, right before he sent them home to their parents.

Some of Stephen’s passions included fishing, listening to Blues music and cooking. He was famous for his pound cakes, chocolate candy and, of course, his New Orleans style GUMBO!! Stephen was so skilled in the kitchen; he could even make Spam taste like real ham. However, even with that magic, he could not convince the family to indulge in his beloved potted meat.

Stephen had many good and notable qualities. His work ethic was impeccable. He always wore a watch because he firmly believed in being early or on time. He was also a trusted advisor and listened to anyone who looked to him for guidance. Although he was quiet in his own way, he did not steer away from providing his opinion, whether the topic was politics, sports or life in general.

Stephen’s faith was evident at an early age when he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior. He served as a member of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, where he was baptized on March 7, 1999.

Stephen was preceded in death by both of his parents, his brothers Lane Pierce and Nathaniel “Nookie” Pierce, his wife Ruby Pierce and his daughter, Tira Pierce. He leaves behind his sisters Anna Mae Barnes of New Orleans, Shirley Pulley of Buffalo, NY, his brother, Leonard Pierce of Seaside, CA, his children Douglas Jones (Joyce), Amelia Duncan, Edith Johnson (Robert), Ronald Pierce (Gwen), Stephen Pierce (Jeanne), and Cecilia Pierce, all of San Diego, and Kemberly Phillips of Dallas, Texas. He also leaves his grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren and a host of family and friends to cherish his memory.

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