William “Bill” Benton Pierce Sr. passed away peacefully at home on the morning of March 16th, 2026, after a courageous battle with prostate cancer. He was 89 years old. During his final days, Bill was surrounded by the love and support of friends and family. Born in Albany, Kentucky on July 8th, 1936, he was the eldest child of Anna Christine (Stevens) and Edwin E. Pierce.
Bill was a devoted member of the Springs Valley Wesleyan Church, where he found joy in singing during worship services. His commitment to service extended beyond his faith community; Bill served in the United States Army for twenty years and later retired from Crane Naval Base. He cherished reading his Bible, attending church, spending time with friends, and fishing.
Bill is survived by his wife, Columbine Pierce, and his three children: Kristen Bepler of Florida; William (Lisa) Pierce Jr. of Fishers, IN; and Cecilia Pierce of Florida. He also leaves behind two stepdaughters, Cheyenne (Jason) Carmon of Evansville, IN, and Kenna (Cody) Edwards of Poseyville, IN. His siblings are Roy Pierce of New Castle, IN; Hazel (Larry) Hoover of New Palestine, IN; Paul Pierce of Fortville, IN; Mary (Lorin) Frisbie of Spiceland, IN; and Dona Mae Davis of Fortville, IN. Bill’s legacy continues through his nine grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife of forty-two years, Betty Ann Pierce (Dahlke), who passed away in 2006, his parents, three brothers—David, Kendall, and Charlie—and his grandson, Joshua Benton.
A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on May 9th, 2026, at the Springs Valley Wesleyan Church, located at 586 South Indiana Ave., French Lick, IN 47432. Visitation is scheduled from 1:00 to 2:00 PM EST, followed by a service at 2:00 PM EST Pastor John Moffatt officiating. Military rites will be conducted after the service.
Bill generously donated his body to the Anatomical Education Program at IU School of Medicine. This meaningful gift will enhance health science education and improve patient care for future generations.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Bill’s honor to the Anatomical Education Program, 635 Barnhill Drive, Room MS 304, Indianapolis, IN 46202.