Taylorville — George Michael "Mike" Pierce, 91, of Pinehurst, North Carolina, formerly of Taylorville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024. Born to Matilda and Fred Pierce on Jan. 26, 1933, in Louisville, Kentucky, and lovingly raised by Beatrice Pierce, Mike grew up in Taylorville. Mike was preceded in death by his son David Allen Pierce; his brother, Tony Pierce; and a nephew, Bob Williams.

After graduating high school, Mike proudly served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, achieving the rank of sergeant before his honorable discharge.

Mike began his career in civil service in Pueblo, Colorado, eventually moving to Joliet, Illinois, and Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, before retiring in 1989. Shortly after retirement, he relocated to Pinehurst, where he enjoyed more rounds of golf than one could count and celebrated multiple hole-in-ones. As a gifted craftsman, Mike enjoyed customizing and repairing golf clubs for others to enjoy but wouldn't give too much advice on the golf course. His friendly demeanor, quick wit and radiant smile could be enjoyed on the back porch as the sun set most evenings with a good cigar and a bourbon.

Mike is survived by his wife, Louise "Weezie"; son Mike (Joanne) Pierce II; favorite daughter Carey (Steven) Ortman; grandchildren, Tobia Pierce (Jason Baker), Tryna (Tim) King, Michael (Heather) Pierce, Christina (Jack) Nakanishi, Sam (Lisa) Ortman, Daniel (Autumn) Ortman and Stephanie (Robbie) Grosso; several delightful great-grandchildren, Taylor, TJ, Timothy, Mitch, Jackson, Carter, Jack Jr., S.J., Vance, Owen, Colin, Broden and Hayden; his sister, Jean (Don Williams) and their children, Tari and John Williams; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A funeral Mass was held Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024, at Sacred Heart Church in Pinehurst. A graveside service will be held at Calvary Cemetery in Pawnee, Illinois, on Monday, Dec. 16, 2024, at 1 p.m., with Rev. James Palakudy officiating and the Department of Defense and Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County conducting military honors.

Curry Funeral Home in Pawnee is assisting the family of Mike Pierce with local burial arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.curryfh.com.