Sally Lou Pierson

Sally Lou Martin Pierson, age 93 of Mount Carmel, Tennessee, passed away Oct 26, 2025 at NHC in Johnson City, Tennessee. Sally was born in Church Hill, Tennessee on April 28, 1932 to the late Charlie Clayton Martin and Mabel Hester Tranbarger.

She was a member of the Higher Ground Baptist Church, Kingsport, TN and played the piano for several years at various churches. Sally loved playing the piano and singing. Her love for the Lord was evident to all of those around her.

Sally retired from Mead Paper Company in 1994 after 43 years of service. Once she retired, Sally spent her time with family and friends. She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and husband on the farm. She loved to cook, bake and can or freeze anything Fred grew in the garden. She was so proud when she got to hold her great-grandson.

She was an avid family historian and spent many hours researching the family tree, gathering stories, and labeling pictures. Sally was always willing and excited to share her knowledge with others. She willingly passed along her love of genealogy.

Sally was preceded in death by her sister Helen M. Kendrick of Kingsport, Tennessee.

She is survived by husband of 66 years, Fred Wheeler Pierson; son, Jeffrey Fred Pierson; daughter, Jan Ruth Cross and husband Gregory; granddaughter, Rebecca 'Gracie' Cross; grandson, Conner Grant Cross and wife Claire Lincoln Cross; great-grandson, Graham Pierson Cross; special niece, Cindy Lou Kendrick Arnold; and aunt, Margaret Tranbarger Cooper. Sally was also blessed with many in-laws, nieces and nephews whom she truly loved. Cindy Williams is a special friend who supported and shared Sally's love of genealogy.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Homes, Kingsport. The funeral service will follow at 6 p.m. with Dr. Robert Russell and Pastor Travis Pierson officiating.

Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, October 31, 2025, at Oak Hill Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may donate to the Scott County Historical Society, 137 East Jackson Street, Gate City, VA 24251 to continue Sally's love of genealogy or to Second Harvest Food Bank, 1020 Jericho Dr., Kingsport, TN 37663. Sally will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on through her loved ones and her friends.

The family would like to thank NHC, the doctors, nurses, and especially the awesome staff of great loving people for their excellent care.

Hamlett Dobson Funeral Home is in charge of the services.