Russell Pierce

Russell Lee Pierce, 94, of Pryor, passed away on Thursday, April 11, 2019 at his home. He was born on September 18, 1924 in Boatman; the son of Aaron and Annie (Turner) Pierce. Russell faithfully served his country in the United States Navy and served during World War II. He married the love of his life, Ethlyene Sampsel on October 25, 1943 and celebrated 75 years of marriage last October. Many people fondly remember Russell as the “Candy Man” and can recall Russell bringing around candy bars, which were his favorite, to people in the community. He owned and operated a wholesale candy business for most of his life. Russell also enjoyed raising cattle for a time. He was a very social man and looked forward to visiting with his friends and family. He never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. He attended the First Church of God in Pryor. Russell leaves behind many wonderful memories and will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 16, 2019 in the First Church of God in Pryor with Reverend Andrew Rehbein and Reverend Kenneth Gable officiating. Burial will follow in the Bryan Chapel Cemetery with Max Merritt, Bryan Merritt, Grayson Wise, Troy Wise, Wade Enyart, and Brett Enyart serving as casket bearers. Honorary casket bearer will be Jacob Enyart. Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Monday, April 15, 2019 in the Shipman’s Funeral Home Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the First Church of God Building Fund. To leave his family a message, please visit his Tribute Wall at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman’s Funeral & Cremation Service. Russell is survived by his daughters, Marilyn Merritt and husband Tom of Salina, Oklahoma and Carolyn Enyart and husband Ronnie of Colcord, Oklahoma; brothers, Doyle Pierce and wife Carla of Salina, Oklahoma, Delbert Pierce and wife Mae of Salina, Oklahoma; grandchildren, Wade Enyart, Brett Enyart, Bryan Merritt, and Lisa Merritt; and great grandchildren; Peyton, Mackynzie, Jacob, Max, Benjamin, Brody, Sam, Annie, and Grayson; and many other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his love, Ethylene Pierce; son, Jerry Pierce; parents, Aaron and Annie Pierce; brothers, Alvin and Bob Pierce; and sisters, Rachel Jones and Hazel Gwartney.