Richard Elwyn Pierce

Richard Elwyn Pierce, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2024, in Shreveport, Louisiana after a lengthy illness. Born on August 17, 1942 in Atlanta, Texas, Richard lived a life marked by professional achievement, dedicated service, and deep personal connections.

After attending North Texas University, Richard began his professional career as Supervisor of Payroll and Production Statistics at Libbey Owens Ford in Shreveport, Louisiana. Demonstrating a keen understanding of the burgeoning technology sector, he transitioned to a career in sales at NCR Corporation where he specialized in mainframe computer sales during the industry’s infancy. His decision proved to be fortuitous, as he quickly became a leader among his peers, consistently exceeding quotas and earning numerous national sales awards.  His specialty was providing computing solutions for the government and public sectors where he placed systems in almost every parish in Louisiana.

Richard's professional success was paralleled by his active involvement in his family, community and church. At most every family event, a son’s art show, little league practice, a granddaughter’s dance recital, high school football games, Richard, or “Poppie” to his granddaughters, would be there with his infectious smile, enjoying his family and friends and spreading happiness. He was a dedicated member of Summer Grove Methodist Church where he contributed to the Friendship Sunday School Class and served on the administrative board in various capacities. In his later years, he was a faithful member of Central Christian Church until health challenges made it impossible for him to attend.

An avid golfer, Richard was a longtime member of Meadowlake Country Club. It was here that he made many lifelong friends and spent countless joyful hours on the golf course. In his retirement, Richard and his beloved wife of 61 years, Lois, enjoyed traveling extensively, visiting Europe and cruising the Caribbean numerous times.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Margaret, and sister, JoAnn Sands. He is survived by his devoted wife, Lois; his sons, Rick (and wife Zoe) and Randy; his granddaughters, Emily (and fiancé Thomas Simms) and Sarah Margaret Hurd (and husband Conner).

Richard's life will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 10, 2024, located at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Drive in Shreveport. Officiating the service will be Rev. Tony Nations. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will be at Centuries Memorial Park Cemetery, 8801 Mansfield Road in Shreveport. Honoring him as pallbearers will be Bubba Ash, Danny DeHondt, Jimmy Harris, Conner Hurd, Thomas Simms and Mike Suggs.

Poppie leaves behind a legacy of professional excellence, community service, and cherished memories. His kindness, fun spirit, dedication to family, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew him.