Welton Pierce

Welton Ray Pierce 1940-2016 Welton Ray Pierce was born in Campbellsville, KY on Jan. 4, 1940. He passed away on Dec. 11, 2016, after a brave battle with cancer. Ray spent his early years in Kentucky. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was stationed in Northwest Florida, where he traded the hills of Kentucky for the white sands of Pensacola. There he met his beloved wife of 56 years, Brenda Faye Keller. He married and settled into a life, first in the Navy, then working at St. Regis, Gulf Power, and NARF Mainside Pensacola. He was an aircraft mechanic for many years and earned the reputation of being a perfectionist in his work. He also retired from the Air Force Reserves. After retirement, he was employed part time with Manheim Auto Auction as a driver. Ray was a member and deacon at New Beginnings Baptist Church where he was loved and respected by those who worshipped there. Ray never met a stranger, loved people, and loved life. He was kind, generous, and very loyal. His family and friends always knew that they could count on him to be there when they were in need of help. Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Willis and Annie Pierce; his infant siblings, Brenda Fay and Jerry Lee; a dear cousin, Larry Walters, who was like a brother to him. He is survived by his loving wife, Brenda Faye Pierce; his daughter, Terri (Mick) Howard; his son, David (Debi) Pierce; his grandchildren, Sarah (Mark) Harlin, Patrick Howard, Olivia Pierce, and Eliza Pierce; their mother, Angie Pierce and granddaughter, Chase Mitchem. Ray also leaves behind his devoted dog, Sophie, who he dearly loved. The family would like to thank Covenant Hospice Inpatient Palliative Care Center for their compassionate care. Services for Ray Pierce will be on Fri., Dec. 16, 2016 at Faith Chapel Funeral Home South with Dr. John Pavlus officiating. Visitation for the public will be from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. followed by the funeral services at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Barrancas National Cemetery, NAS Pensacola. Pallbearers will be Ken Concilio, Jack Coppenger, Danny Cox, Dennis Harris, Reid Stewart and Aubrey Washington. FAITH CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME SOUTH, 100 Beverly Pkwy., is entrusted with arrangements. You may send condolences to the family at www.fcfhs.com

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Welton Pierce

January 4, 1940 - December 11, 2016