Joel Glenn Pierce

Published 5:25 pm Thursday, February 13, 2025

Joel Glenn Pierce, 87, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at his home in Elizabethton, Tennessee. Joel was born on June 16, 1937, to the late Earl David Pierce and Edith Christine Fair Pierce. In addition to his parents, Joel was also preceded in death by his beloved wife, Cora Sue Spears Pierce, in October 2024, and a brother, Sonny Earl Pierce.

Joel had worked for Winn-Dixie and as a general manager at U-Haul. He served in the Korean War as a serviceman in the United States Navy. He was a referee for more than 55 years and was in the TSSAA Hall of Fame and Carter County Sports Hall of Fame. Joel was a member of Elizabethton Church of Christ, where he had served as song leader for 35 years and conducted Bible studies at nursing homes and by mail. Joel enjoyed all sports, camping, and going to Dollywood.

Joel’s legacy lives on in those who survive him, including his son, Phillip Joel (Lisa) Pierce; his daughter, Cynthia Pierce Torbett; his grandchildren, Anna Caroline Torbett, William Richard Torbett, Blake Nicole Pierce Franklin, and Drew Phillip Pierce; his great-grandchildren, Skyla Lorraine Torbett, Thomas William Torbett, and Joshua Charles Torbett; and a brother, Jerry Paul Pierce.

The family will receive friends at Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, between the hours of noon and 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 22, 2025.

Following the visitation, Joel will be entombed alongside his beloved wife on Saturday, February 22, 2025, in the Mausoleum of Peace at Happy Valley Memorial Park with Mr. Roby Ellis officiating. Music will be under the direction of Jerry Pierce. Active pallbearers will be Drew Pierce, William Torbett, Jerry Pierce, Dale Fair, Phil Pierce, and Sean Pierce. Chris Pierce and Darrell Fair will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Joel’s family would like to express their appreciation to the caregivers David Collins, Jeannie Turner, and Latasha Arnold for their wonderful care.

Those who prefer memorials in lieu of flowers may make donations in memory of Joel to the Alzheimer’s Association, 2319 Browns Mill Road, Johnson City, TN 37604, or by visiting the website at www.alzfdn.org.

Words of sympathy may be shared with the family by visiting our website at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Home of Elizabethton is honored to serve the Pierce family. Office phone: (423) 542-2232.