(From Ulmer Funeral Home)
James Kirk Pierce—the man, the myth, the legend—passed away on October 18, 2026, at the age of 68. Born on October 9, 1958, in Joplin, Missouri, to James Carl Pierce and Jane Ellen Pierce, Kirk possessed a larger-than-life presence, boundless generosity, and a sharp wit that lit up every room he ever walked into.
To anyone who had the honor of crossing his path, Kirk wasn't just a friend—he was a force of nature. Everyone has at least one legendary, unforgettable story about him worth sharing. As an avid reader, lifelong learner, and forward-thinking intellectual, Kirk possessed a rare brilliance as a storyteller/ even if a few of his yarns, were absolute tall tales that grew grander with each retelling…Yet, for all his sharp mind and massive energy, he never hogged the spotlight. Instead, defined by his signature accepting inclusion, he used his presence to lift others up, making the supporting cast around him shine in their own right.
His massive passion extended straight onto the courts and ballfields, where he coached generations of young people in softball and basketball. Kirk poured his entire heart into his players, bringing a fiery intensity to the game that famously earned him both high-standing accolades and the occasional, enthusiastic ejection from the referees.
His greatest love story began on a baseball field of his own. Just three months after spotting her playing left field for Miller Lite, Kirk married Piper, the daughter of John and Lou (Mimi) Anderson and the baby sister of Brenda, Connie, Kit, and Kim. They were wed on October 14, 1981, in Miami, Oklahoma, at Lavern’s Chapel, kicking off a beautiful 45-year journey together.
Kirk and Piper built a life centered entirely around joy, family, and gathering. He was the ultimate grand host. Whether they were putting on massive holiday spreads, anchoring big sporting events, throwing legendary luaus, or gathering for the Maple Leafs, Kirk was always at the center of the fun. Guests at their Maple Street home or down at the Wela Park cabin were guaranteed a warm welcome, great company, and a healthy dose of Kirk's trademark awkward, slightly off-color humor. He loved to break the ice by making people blush, but he ultimately made sure everyone knew they were family. Because of Kirk, you knew you were always welcome by the creek, around the table or the fire pit.
Of all his grand adventures, Kirk’s family was his true center. He was the proudest father to his daughter, Keegan Lohr Pierce, and the most doting grandfather to Olivia Grace Pierce, both of whom he considered his absolute proudest achievements in life. He held that same immense pride for his many nieces, nephews, and their grands, tracking their lives with the enthusiasm of their biggest fan.
Kirk was greeted in the next life by his parents, James Carl and Jane Ellen Pierce, and his younger sister, Kelley, who all preceded him in death. His legacy of laughter and love will be carried forward by his devoted wife Piper, his daughter Keegan, his granddaughter Olivia, and his surviving brothers, Joe and Kyle.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to properly honor a man who lived life to the absolute fullest. Until then, the family asks that you pull up a chair, raise a glass, and share a story in his honor—just as Kirk would have wanted.
Contributions may be made to the Carthage Humane Society in care of Ulmer Funeral Home.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.
