John Wayne Pierce, age 71, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2026, surrounded by his family after a long illness. Born on December 8, 1954, in Owensboro, Kentucky, he was the son of Dorothy Johnson Pierce and the late Lark Pierce, Jr.

John is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years, Debbie Woodall Pierce; his daughter, Summer Pierce Chiovetta (Anthony); his son, Jonathan Clint Pierce (Melissa); and his four beloved grandchildren—Gabrielle and AJ Chiovetta, and Hensley and Blakely Pierce—who were the great joys of his life.

He is also survived by his sister, Linda Dant (David, who preceded John); brother‑in‑law, Tony Woodall (Isabel); sisters‑in‑law, Robin Gani and Pamela Humphrey (Jody); and his mother‑ and father‑in‑law, Ann and Glenn Woodall. John leaves behind many nieces and nephews—Steve Dant (Becky), Jake Schuler, Thad Humphrey (Austin), Jessica Alicna (Scott), Haylee Pitsas (Demetrios), Elise Woodall‑Otsuki (John), and Shelby Woodall—as well as 12 great‑nieces and nephews.

He is further survived by his Uncle David Johnson, numerous cousins, and especially close cousins Ray Johnson (Sharon), Diana Burden (Danny), and Debbie Walters (Jim), whose love and support meant so much to him.

John cherished his extended family in Tennessee and always looked forward to their famously large reunions. He never missed the chance to enjoy "his" pecan pie, mac and cheese, sausage dip, and Coca‑Cola ham—traditions that brought him great comfort and joy.

A proud graduate of Daviess County High School (Class of 1972), John went on to attend Kentucky Wesleyan College, playing basketball at both schools. He built a 45‑year career in the construction industry, beginning in Owensboro before relocating his family to the Atlanta area in 1994. As a Lead Superintendent, he oversaw major projects across eight states and was respected for his dedication, leadership, and work ethic.

John lived life with enthusiasm and a big heart. He was a devoted NASCAR fan—one of Bill Elliott's biggest—and attended many races over the years. After being "talked into" coaching t‑ball in 1988, he discovered a passion for coaching and went on to lead teams from t‑ball through Babe Ruth baseball, pouring his energy and love into "his" kids.

He was an avid turkey hunter, proud of the prized turkey he once harvested—now affectionately known as "Tom," displayed in the family study. A loyal Georgia Bulldogs fan, John could always be found in front of the TV on Saturdays, cheering on his Dawgs. He loved singing country music, though only in the car or shower, never believing his family when they told him how good he sounded.

John and Debbie shared a deep love for animals and spent many years volunteering with dog rescue organizations. They rescued numerous dogs, including Teddy—whom they intended to foster but adopted within an hour—and Bentley, who misses John dearly.

Above all, John treasured time with his grandchildren. For 19 years, he delighted in sleepovers at DeeDee and DooDah's house, cheering at their games, recitals, and performances, and watching countless Barbie movies and Moana—at least a hundred times. These moments were the highlight of his life.

In his final days, John continued to find comfort in watching reruns of The Andy Griffith Show, a lifelong favorite that brought him peace and laughter.

Visitation will be held at Collins Funeral Home, 4947 N. Main Street, Acworth, GA 30101, on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, with the service beginning at 3:00 pm.

Burial will take place on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 12:00 pm Eastern / 11:00 am Central at Woodall Cemetery, 2204 Jarrell Ridge Road, Clarksville, TN 37043.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Glendale Methodist Church Building Fund, PO Box 67, Glendale, KY 42740, or Ruff Dog Rescue, 1690 Highgrove Club Drive, Milton, GA 30004 (ruffdogrescue.org).