Leon Joseph Pierce, age 82, of Osceola, passed away Friday, January 25, 2013 at Hospice House of St. Joseph County. Leon was born April 2, 1930 in Wilmer, Alabama to the late Troy and Ina Mae (Beverly) Pierce. Following his graduation from Tanner Williams High School, Leon married Margaret Brubaker in Lucedale, Mississippi on June 1, 1949. They were married 63 years and 9 months.

Margaret survives, along with their children, Rhonda (Jeff) Clark and Dennis C. (Cheryl) Pierce, both of Osceola, and 6 grandchildren; Melisa (Bart) Arbaugh, Michael (Agatha) Jamison, Jason (Allison) Clark, Jeni (Shaun) Higginbottom, Dennis C. (Tracy) Pierce Jr. and Craig A. (Kacy) Pierce. Also surviving are 12 great grandchildren; Kaylan, Madison, Westley, Riley, Haley, Mackensey, Aria, Yater, Nathan, Camdon, Gage, Aliyah, and one great grandson on the way. Leon is also survived by his sister Jaucille (Bobby) Brubaker of Alabama. He was preceded in death by his siblings Leonard Pierce, and Willie Christian and his great granddaughter Brynn.

Visitation will be held 2 hours prior to the 12:00 pm funeral service on Wednesday, January 30, 2013 at Chapel Hill Funeral Home in Osceola. Interment will follow in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.

Leon was employed as a truck driver for Amoco for over 35 years, retiring in 1990. During his employment, he belonged to the Teamster''s Union. In his spare time, he enjoyed gardening several acres of his land, and selling the produce in front of his home to his friends and neighbors. Leon had a giving spirit, and enjoyed laughing and joking with his family. He loved to spend time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren as well. He loved music, especially bluegrass, country and gospel. Leon was also a longtime member of Jamestown United Methodist Church.

In his memory, donations may be made to the Center for Hospice.