PORTSMOUTH- John Wayne Pierce, age 58, passed away February 9, 2018 surrounded by family and close friends. He was born in Madrid, Spain on January 13, 1960 to Maria Teresa Llerandi Gomez and James Pierce.

John enjoyed making the most of life and bringing a smile to peoples' faces. He grew up with two sisters, Carmen Pierce and Terry Shahan, and one brother, Joe Pierce. Throughout his life, he had a passion for learning (especially history) and teaching himself how to fix things. He became an electrician and worked in shipyards after moving to Norfolk, VA. He was a generous man who touched many lives and sought to help others in any way he could. He was an animal lover and had a special bond with his dogs Sandy and Smokey.

John spent his days being the life of a party, spending time with his children and friends, riding his Harley, and perfecting his gun collection. He especially enjoyed bringing his kids outdoors to go crabbing, fishing, camping and to amusement parks. John is survived by his siblings; his daughter, Adrienne Pierce; son, Ryan Hughes; and ex-wife, Kay Pierce.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 9:30a.m.  Saturday, April 21, at St. Paul Catholic Church, 522 High St., Portsmouth, VA. In honor of John's life, memorial donations may be made for his daughter's education to the Pierce School Fund at Wells Fargo Bank and online at https://paypal.me/pools/c/82cvSvOi6e .