James Rueben Pierce

James Rueben Pierce  3-24-1938 -- 10-14-19

Rueben Pierce peacefully left this life on Monday evening, October 14^th, surrounded by his loving family and dear friends.  

Rueben’s soft-spoken manner concealed towering strength and steadfast integrity.  He was a man of few words but deep feelings.  On those occasions when Rueben expressed an opinion, he commanded the attention and respect of all who heard.  His friends quickly learned that his serious expression did not express anger, but rather the self-assurance of a man with deep personal convictions.  Rueben was his own man, a “man’s man”.  He never catered to what others wanted or expected of him and never yielded to political correctness.

Rueben was born on March 24^th, 1938 in Hall County to George and Margie Duckett Pierce.  He attended Lyman Hall school.  He enlisted in the US Navy and served from 1958 to 1961.

Rueben was employed as a supervisor at Gaybourn Mills before beginning a 30-year career at the General Motors Plant in Doraville. He was a dedicated member of the Gainesville Elks Lodge 1126 and held many leadership positions, including the position of Exalted Ruler during 1987 to1988. 

Rueben’s life was made complete when he married Glenda Miller in 1963.  Glenda has been his steadfast companion and a lifelong source of deep affection.  Rueben was also deeply dedicated to his daughter Janet and his son Chad.  His affection included his grandchildren, extended family and a host of close personal friends.

More recently, a great source of happiness and camaraderie were the weekly bridge games with Glenda’s brothers.  A consummate self-taught bridge player, he took these friendly matches very seriously, mainly for the opportunity to enjoy the fellowship they provided.

Rueben is survived by his wife Glenda, son Chad and daughter-in-law Ani Pierce, grandchildren Braxton, Christian and Nicolle Pierce, his sister, Cedelia Head, , brothers and sisters-in-law Wayne and Jill Miller and Fletcher and Gina Miller, brother-in-law Larry Miller, sister-in-law Dorothy Pierce.  He is preceded in death by his daughter Janet Pierce and his siblings Mary Nell King, Claudine Gilstrap, Rev. Jack Pierce. Willie Mae Brownlow, Bill Pierce, and Betty Black.

Visitation will be held at Little Davenport Funeral Home on Thursday October 17^th from 1:30 to 3:30 PM. A graveside service will be held at Alta Vista Cemetery on Thursday October 17^th at 4:00 PM. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Sunday October 20^th at 2:30 PM at First Presbyterian Church Gainesville with reception to follow.

Those desiring to leave online condolences can do so at littledavenport.com

Little Davenport Funeral Home and Crematory 355 Dawsonville Hwy. Gainesville, Ga. 30501