Fred Wheeler Pierson

Fred Wheeler Pierson, age 95 of Mount Carmel, TN, passed away Sept 8, 2026. He was born in Fort Blackmore, VA, on May 11, 1931, to the late William Piert Pierson and Lottie Mae Owens. He was one of 12 children. Fred was preceded in death by his wife Sally Lou Martin Pierson and siblings Autho, Dallas, Clifford, Palmer, Bill, Kelly, Mack, Bertie, and Sue.

Fred proudly served in the US Air Force for 4 years. He was a member of Higher Ground Baptist Church, Kingsport, TN. He retired from Mead Paper Company in 1994 after 43 years of service.

Fred was a hardworking and caring man who found joy in the simple things in life. He spent many years raising cattle, tending to his garden and sharing the fruits of his labor with others. Above all, Fred cherished his family and friends. His pride and joy were his grandchildren, whose lives brought him great happiness. He treasured visits from his great-grandson, Graham. He felt blessed to have come from a large family and to hold the title of ‘Uncle Fred’.

Fred is survived by son, Jeffrey F. Pierson; daughter, Jan Ruth Cross and husband Gregory; granddaughter, Rebecca Grace Cross; grandson, Conner Grant Cross and wife Claire; great-grandson, Graham Pierson Cross; sister, Margie Sanders; brother, Doug Pierson (Wanda Faye); and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 12:30 to 2 p.m. on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Homes, Kingsport. The funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. with Rev. Marvin Cameron and Rev. Travis Pierson officiating.

Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, September 14, 2026, at Oak Hill Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be William Pierson, David Pierson, Jon Pierson, Greg Cross, Grant Cross, and Shane Pierson.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to friends and family who visited, called, drove and supported him when his vision began to fail. Thank you to the Amedisys Hospice staff and NHC Kingsport for their care. The family will be forever grateful for the care provided by the Veterans Community Living Center, Mountain Home, Tennessee.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may donate to the food pantry which serves the Fort Blackmore area: Midway Memorial Methodist Church (note for food pantry), 5532 Veterans Memorial Highway, Gate City Virginia, 24251.