Vicksburg Mourns the Loss of Beloved Community Doctor
In the heart of Vicksburg, a significant chapter in the local community has come to a close with the recent passing of Dr. Paul Williamson “Bill” Pierce III. He left this world peacefully at his home on August 23, 2021, surrounded by his loving family and friends, a touch that embodies the very essence of his life’s work.
A Life Well-Lived
Dr. Pierce was born on January 19, 1941, in Oxford, Mississippi. He grew up in Vicksburg, where he was a bright student at Carr Central High School, graduating in 1958. His passion for learning and his dedication to serving his community soon became apparent. He went on to attend Mississippi State University, where he earned a B.S. degree in Civil Engineering in 1963. Here, he also joined the Army’s Reserve Officers Training Corps, beginning a journey of service that would carry on for years to come.
Military Service
Following his college graduation, Dr. Pierce spent two years in the United States Army. His time included rigorous training at locations like Ft. Belvoir in Virginia and Fort Benning in Georgia. He served abroad in Korea as a Heavy Equipment Construction Company Commander and later at Fort Leonard Wood, Colorado, before receiving an Honorable Discharge with the rank of Captain in 1965. This early service to his country laid a solid groundwork for a life devoted to helping others.
From Engineering to Medicine
After his military service, Dr. Pierce embarked on an unexpected yet inspiring career shift. He attended graduate school at Colorado State University, focusing on specialized courses to enhance his engineering skills with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Yet, in 1968, he chose a new direction altogether and enrolled in medical school at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. He completed his residency in Internal Medicine in 1975 and immediately began practicing medicine in Vicksburg.
A Legacy in Medicine
For an impressive forty-six years, Dr. Pierce devoted himself to the art of healing, making a remarkable impact in the lives of countless patients. His work culminated in the founding of Medical Associates of Vicksburg in 2008, a reflection of his commitment to providing quality healthcare to the community. Perhaps the highlight of his career was working alongside his sons, Dr. Paul Williamson Pierce IV and Dr. Samuel Louis Pierce, further solidifying his family’s legacy in medicine.
A Heartfelt Farewell
The love and care shown to Dr. Pierce throughout his life have been reciprocated by his family, who express deep gratitude to all the caregivers, healthcare workers, and friends who supported him during his illness. Special thanks were given to the dedicated staff at Medical Associates of Vicksburg, Merit Health River Region, and Encompass Hospice, among others, who provided him with compassionate care. His personal caregivers also deserve a mention for their unwavering support during his last days.
Memorial Services
To honor Dr. Pierce’s remarkable life, a visitation will be held at Glenwood Funeral Home in Vicksburg on Friday, August 27th, from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. The following day, there will be another visitation beginning at 10 a.m. at Crawford Street United Methodist Church, leading up to the funeral service at 11 a.m. For those who cannot attend in person, the funeral will be live-streamed.
Commendable Charitable Donations
In lieu of flowers, the family invites friends and community members to consider making donations to uplift the causes that meant so much to Dr. Pierce: Crawford Street United Methodist Church, the University of Mississippi Medical Center, or the Vicksburg Warren Humane Society. These contributions are a beautiful way to continue his legacy of kindness and service.
As the Vicksburg community comes together to bid farewell, Dr. Pierce’s life serves as a reminder of the difference one person can make in the lives of many. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his contributions to health and community.
