Vernon Pierce
Vernon Pierce, 69, of Beaumont, died Sunday, April 14, 2024. On August 3, 1954, Hugh Vernon Pierce and Patricia Parker Pierce welcomed Hugh Vernon Pierce, Jr. to the family. While not the first grandson, and not even the first grandchild, he was quickly designated his Grandmother Pierce’s favorite. That was according to HER. Vernon loved to tell that when the family gathered and Grandmother Pierce served her famous chocolate pie, she would produce one for the family and a second “for Vernon.” And NO one challenged her on that. When his mother would seemingly receive preferential treatment, her justification was always, “I bore Vernon.” Accurate.
In the next 6 years, two siblings were welcomed. Karen “Celeste” and James Parker. When Vernon was asked how he liked his new little sister, his reply was that he’d “rather have a truck like Bucky’s.” Typically, there just aren’t a lot of stories about the third child, James. Except that he was the most easy-going, happy, and content baby ever. He learned survival skills early in life.
Vernon grew up in Jackson, Mississippi, in a very typical and traditional 1950s home. He did things that all little boys do, like getting stuck in a tree wearing his dad’s hunting boots and dividing the room he shared with James with tape. Strategically including the door on HIS side.
His entrepreneur side emerged at an early age. While a new street was being built in the neighborhood, Vernon collected empty Coke bottles and returned them for the cash. He took that money and purchased cold cokes and hauled them in his wagon to the workers where he sold them for a profit. And repeat.
Early on, Vernon’s analytical and mechanical mindset began to emerge. His fascination with electricity also became apparent. He wired his sister’s doll house with lights.
While pursuing a business degree beginning at Hinds Junior College in Raymond, MS, he worked afternoons for Mississippi Power and Light. That began a career that would span over four decades. A fine arts class was required and in Music Appreciation is where he met Sheree Locke. The teacher of that class was also the director of the college’s choir where Sheree sang. Vernon quickly endeared himself to her by repairing the lights in the 100-year-old auditorium shortly before a concert. Sheree would pass up homework, and Vernon would sign his name under hers and they’d BOTH get credit. He had a D when they met and finished with a good solid B.
In January of 1977, he transferred to Mississippi State University to finish his degree. Sheree followed in the fall and that was all it took. Engaged in September of 1978 and married in May of 1979.
Vernon went to work full time with Mississippi Power and Light as a Residential Salesman. He had homebuilders building total electric homes when electricity was 15 cents a kilowatt hour. A salesman for sure.
He and Sheree began their married life in Clinton, MS, then transferred to Kosciusko, MS, where they welcomed their first child, Karen Esther in 1984. Another promotion took them to Vicksburg, MS, where Hugh Vernon Pierce, III, was born in 1988. There was never a prouder grandfather than “Daddy Hugh” when “Hugh3” came along. Vernon’s children were his proudest accomplishment.
Subsequent promotions took the family to Vicksburg, MS, Madison, MS, then to Conway, Arkansas, and finally to Beaumont, Texas, in 1998. Vernon was told not to buy a house because this was an 18-month assignment. He retired from Entergy as VP of Customer Service in 2019, living in the same house he purchased in 1998.
As Vernon said, he “failed retirement” and helped start Southeast Texas Emergency Relief Fund to assist citizens recovering from Hurricane Harvey.
Later that year, friends began to encourage him to run for Jefferson County Commissioner, Pct.1. He was elected and began serving the citizens of his precinct with the same dedication he offered his Entergy customers. He was reelected in March of 2024.
Vernon has always been involved in his community. Just to name a few, he was president of the Texas Energy Museum Board for the last15 years. He has served the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce in a variety of ways but most recently on the Economic Development Committee. Other organizations include the LIT Foundation Board, the Southeast Texas Regional Planning Commission Executive Board and the Symphony of Southeast Texas Board. He is a Past President of the United Way and the Rotary Club of Beaumont and a past Commissioner of the Sabine Neches Navigation District.
Somehow, Vernon still managed to have a lot of fun. He bought his first Harley in 2010. Long trips with dear friends made the best and most treasured memories.
As a member of Wesley Methodist Church, Vernon has served in many capacities but most notably as an usher/greeter/hugger. He was also the acolyte “pusher” where he delighted in dancing and making faces at them to make them laugh as they returned from lighting or extinguishing the candles.
Survivors include his wife, Sheree Pierce; son, Hugh Vernon Pierce III of Missouri City; daughter, Karen Esther Pierce of Austin; brother, James Parker Pierce and his wife, Barbara, of Tampa, Florida; sister, Celeste Pierce Carty and her husband, Owen, of Brookhaven, Mississippi; nieces, Marcee Carty, Catherine Carty Bradshaw and her husband, Austin, and Sadie Pierce Brown and her husband, Michael; great-niece, Marian Bradshaw; and nephew, James Parker Pierce, Jr. and his wife, Sarah.
Memorial contributions may be in made in memory of Vernon Pierce to Wesley Methodist Church, 3810 North Major Drive, Beaumont, Texas 77713.
A gathering of Mr. Pierce’s family and friends will be from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Friday, April 19, 2024, at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. His funeral service will be 1:00 p.m., Saturday, April 20, 2024, at Wesley Methodist Church, 3810 North Major Drive, Beaumont. His cremation arrangements will be handled through Broussard’s Crematorium.
Rest In Peace, Vernon Pierce. The world is a better place because you were in it. And we are better for having known you. You will be sorely missed.
Gathering of Family and Friends
Broussard’s Mortuary Major Dr.
- 1605, North Major Drive, Beaumont, Texas, 77713,
- April 19, 2024
- 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Funeral Service
Wesley Methodist Church
- 3810, North Major Drive, Beaumont, Texas, 77713,
- April 20, 2024
- 1:00 pm
When I think of Vernon, I think of service. Service to his co-workers, customers, and community. I’m so sorry for your loss. My heart is with all family and close friends who are figuring out life without him.
Please accept my sincerest sympathy for your loss. I am thinking of you and sending love and comfort during this difficult time. Vernon, was a wonderful husband and an amazing father, his legacy will always be remembered. May God’s love and grace surround you and your family during this sad time.
Please accept my sincerest sympathy for your loss. I am thinking of you and sending love and comfort during this difficult time. Vernon, was a wonderful husband and an amazing father, his legacy will always be remembered. May God’s love and grace surround you and your family during this sad time.
Dear Sheere P,
I am deeply saddened to hear about the loss of your husband. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time.
Losing a loved one is never easy, and I can only imagine the pain you are experiencing. Know that you are not alone, and if there is anything I can do to support you in any way, please do not hesitate to reach out.
May you find comfort in the memories you shared together, and may his soul rest in peace.
With sympathy,
Koneka Hill
Sheree,
Randy has been praying for Vernon everyday while on the treadmill. I just say this post today on Saturday, April 20th! We are so sad to hear about Vernon. Vernon made such an impact on community, church and was a friend to all! We send our deepest condolences to you and your children!
Although we were in Beaumont a short time knowing Vernon and Sheree was one of the best parts of our being there. They opened their lives to us snd enriched our time in both Beaumont and at Wesley Methodist Church. Loved watching him grow in retirement as a commissioner and all they did for the Rotary. We are so very sorry for your loss, Sheree and pray for your peace.
Kalmin and Marsha Smith
Sheree, Karen and Hugh, so sorry for your loss. I will always have a place in my heart to remember my friend. Nome is a better place because Vernon cared and listened to what we needed. RIP my friend. Love to all. Gerry
I’m so sorry to miss the services. I’m keeping my Houston grandchildren and couldn’t work out arrangements to get away.
You know how much I love you both, and I’m here to support you in the weeks and months ahead.
Sending my love and heart felt condolences to the Pierce family.
I’ve been a friend of Karen’s for almost 2 decades, and have loved watching the Pierce family unity from afar. From the home DYI’s to the support of city campaigns/elections. The love is evident. May you all be blessed with peace in this difficult time.
I’m so sorry that I am not able to attend the service or visitation for Vernon. Know that you are in my prayers as you take one day at a time.
He was such a good person and knowing him enriched my life.
Lisa Kethley
I was so sad to hear about Vernon. He was truly an amazing person. He was always so sweet to my great-granddaughter, Morgan, on Sunday mornings. Our love and prayers are with the Pierce family.
Sheree and Pierce Family – My wife Phyllis and I send our condolence to you and your family. Vernon and I go back to the 1990s when we both were in AR. Through the years we have been working together even as he retired from Entergy and as County Commissioner. We have had a lot of great times and memorable conversations. He was a great person to work with.
With heavy hearts, we send our deepest condolences to the Pierce Family! Sheree, Karen and Hugh, our prayers and love will continue to be with you! Vernon will be so missed!
Sheree, i know you have no idea who i am, i go to Wesley and I’ve been praying for Vernon and you, I’m so sorry for your loss. Vernon was such a nice guy. He will be missed. Prayers for you and your family.
My heartfelt condolences to Vernon’s family. I worked with Vernon at Entergy and then alongside of him through the South East Texas Regional Planning Commission. Vernon’s desire to serve the people was the same in both instances. The sense of humor never wavered and those dad jokes……………
He will be missed but his impact lives on.
My deepest sympathy to Mr. Pierce’s family and friends. I will miss seeing him on Sunday mornings at Wesley. Everyone will miss him. God bless you!
I am so very sorry to read of Vernon’s death. I have many good memories of Vernon when working for Mississippi Power & Light. May the LORD grant His Peace and Comfort to his family.
To Vernon’s family and friends, sending my deepest condolences and prayers. Vernon was such a kind and good man. I always looked forward to working with him when he came to the Entergy Office in New Orleans. He always had a smile on his face and a kind word. RIP 🙏🏻
Deepest condolences and prayers to your family. Vernon was an exceptional man. He had great love for his family and was a true champion for his community. He will be deeply missed.
I am so sad to read this.my prayers for all of your family
Dear Sheree and Family-
Our hearts go out to you at this sad time. What a prince of a man. A man’s man and a servant leader. We will miss him. Emily and lift you all in prayer. I regret we will it be there as this is the weekend we are hosting her family reunion, but here is a hug from us both.
With deepest sympathies,
Emily and Randy Fluke
I know Phyllis greeted him with a big hug. Vernon was one of a kind that many are blessed for having known him including me.
Prayers Sheree and family. May God grant you comfort in this sad time. Treasure the memories. Love to all.
What a tremendous leader. Vernon was a great advocate for Southeast Texas. He was both a mentor and a friend. Job well done! Southeast Texas is a much better place as a result of his dedication and commitment to the area. Rest In Peace!
Sheree, my love and prayers are with you and your family. Vernon was always such a kind and good person who loved God, his family and the City of Beaumont. He is already missed.
Love,
Virtue Alexander
Vernon was one a kind. Never met a stranger, always willing to lend a helping hand, selfless and had a heart of gold! You will truly be missed by all of my friend! My heartfelt sympathies to all of your loved ones.
Johnny and Sharon Owens
Heartfelt condolences for you & your family.
Vernon will be soo missed! I loved his quiet sense of humor and his smile. He was an amazing man, husband, father, friend and servant to the community. My heart hurts for Sheree, Karen, Hugh and the rest of the family. Prayers for all.
Vernon will surely be missed. A true friend with a servant’s heart. Sheree, we pray for peace and fond memories for you. Please reach out if you need anything. 🙏🙏🙏
There are no words to express the depth of our sadness at VP’s loss. We pray for God’s healing grace to be extended over the entire Pierce family. You are all very special to us, he will be truly missed.
Sheree, I’m so sorry about Vernon. I have been praying for all your family. Please know that God will give you peace. I love you. Sandra
Sheree,
Heartfelt condolences for you and your family.
We are sorry to read about Vernon’s death. He was such a really good person and so friendly to us at church. We will keep your family in our prayers.
Sheree, my sincere sympathies in hearing of Vernon’s passing. He was my boss in marketing in Mississippi many years ago. While my eyes are teary, I have very fond memories of Vernon that also bring a smile to my face. Prayers for the family’s peace, comfort, and strength during this time and the days to come.
Sheree, I am so sorry for the loss of your wonderful husband.
Dear Cousin, I send you love & hugs as does my sister Dorie.
♥️
We are saddened to hear of the lost of Vernon. Our deepest condolences to his spouse and family. They are in our prayers.
Tom & Mayra Noyola
Vernon was the best. We both loved his positive behavior on everything he was involved in. While working the storms, Vernon reached out to help emergency management to make sure we were informed of the status of the electrical power while he was working at Entergy. After that, we even coaxed him into the SNCA as the Sergeant at Arms. He loved it. He was a big supporter of the Association. Sheree, Susan and I send our love and prayers to you and your family. Sorry for your loss, Vernon will be missed. God Speed.
Sheree, May God bring you and your family comfort at this time . Vernon was truly a great guy. Sandy and I offer our sincere sympathy to you and your family.
Im so sorry for your loss. I’ve known and loved Karen for many years. I know she and the rest of the family are devastated by his passing. Much love and prayers for all the family.
I wish I could be there for the visitation and service. Many memories come to mind probably the most special when we attended the 2015 Sugar Bowl. Those obnoxious Ohio Stare fans! Vernon and Sheree embraced Beaumont as their home like few others. A remarkable couple! My sincere condolences to the family.
Vernon was such a great guy & awesome spirit. Always motivated with helpful intentions. I worked closely with him on several projects & Vernon was one who demonstrated servant leadership. Rest in peace my friend. Thoughts and prayers for Sheree and her family.
We love you Vernon – rest easy my friend.
I’m absolutely devastated to hear of Vernon’s passing. He was so loved in the community. To Sheree and family, you’re all in my prayers.
Sheree, I am so sorry to learn of Vernon’s passing. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Nancy and I extend our condolences to Vernon’s family. A life well lived, service to others. RIP Vernon.
We are so sorry to hear of Vernon’s passing. His smile was contagious and his willingness to serve was an inspiration. Blessings to all his family.
Elaine and I have known Vernon for well over 20 years. He watched us as my wife was pregnant, and then we adopted, and he was always extremely kind to our kiddos. I loved to see him as an usher when we were still at Wesley. My condolences go out to his wife, as we know she will miss him. We will too. He was always so kind to my wife at Church back in the day when we went to Wesley. He will be missed for sure. Especially by Elaine and myself.
Sheree, I’am so sorry for your loss. Just remembering Vernon this morning. Every Sunday like clockwork he would be in the Narthex greeting people with his contagious smile, and then ushering in the service. A life well lived. He will be missed. My prayers are with you and your family. Lloyd and Chris
Sweet Sheree, heartfelt condolences for you & your family. I love you , Missie Landry