With a heart full of laughter and a story for every occasion, Jess Pierce was born on January 4, 1977, in Gordon, Nebraska, to Mary “Tudy” Pierce. Jess passed away peacefully on May 13, 2026, at The Monument Health Hospital in Rapid City, South Dakota, at the age of 49, surrounded by the people he loved most.
Jess was the ultimate storyteller — always ready with a joke, a smile, or a kind word. He had a special way of making everyone feel welcome and cared for, always checking to make sure those around him were doing alright. His positive attitude and big smile will forever be remembered by all who knew him.
Jess loved fishing, barbecuing, spending time outdoors, and sharing stories with family and friends. He enjoyed fixing cars alongside his nieces, always patient and eager to teach. He also loved singing his favorite country songs. Above all else, Jess cherished his family, and it was with them that he shined the brightest. Family gatherings were his favorite — the more, the merrier.
Jess is survived by his mother, Mary “Tudy” Pierce; his five children, Jess Pierce, Jacob Pierce, Austin Pierce, Shylee Pierce, and Khloe Pierce; and the light of his life, his granddaughter, Avianna Pierce, with two more grandchildren expected soon, all residing in Arizona.
He is also survived by his four sisters: Mary “Punkin” Pierce (George), Christy Pierce, Tammy Twiss, and Nevaeh Pierce; his 12 nieces: Alana, Allie, Carsyn, Trinity “Gump”, Lyric, Sophia, Mariah, Myla, Ajiah “Red”, Alyssa “ShiShi”, Ashleigh “MooMoo”, and Rayna; his three nephews, Gilbert, Samuel, and Tate; and his 15 grandchildren: Merrick, Tirzah, Rowan, Kaesen, Ayana, Jeremiah, Keza, Christina, Abigail, Haze, Katalina, Louanna, Ace, Ezra, and Baby Boy Fisher.
Jess is further survived by his uncles, Richard Pierce, Marlin Garrett, John Pierce (Misty), and Earl Pierce (Jessica); his aunt, Donna Albers Walking Elk; as well as many cousins, relatives, and countless friends who loved him dearly.
Jess was preceded in death by his grandmother, Mary Ellen Bull Bear; grandfather, Richard Pierce Sr.; aunt, Debbie Pierce Nearing; uncles, Brian Garrett and Duane Garnett; great-grandparents, Earl and Helen (Rill) Pierce, Moses and Sophie (Gray Eagle Tail) Bull Bear, Helen Cook, Joanie Di Benedetto, Margie Tinderella, Earl Pierce Sr., Bobby Pierce, Jerry, and Gunther; great-great-grandparents, Jess and Julie Bull Bear, Paul Gray Eagle Tail, and Lena Monroe; grandparents, Curtis Janis, Pat and Donna Garnett, Serena Harvey, and Maxine Bull Bear; cousins, Shilo Pierce and Hannah; nephew, David Red Owl Jr.; and nieces, Andrea and Deja Pierce.
Jess will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for his laughter, his stories, his kindness, and the love he gave so freely to everyone around him.
Pallbearers will be his 12 beloved nieces: Alyssa “ShiShi”, Ashleigh “MooMoo”, Rayna, Mariah, Myla, Ajiah, Alana, Allie, Carsyn, Trinity, Lyric, and Sophia.
Honorary Pallbearers will be George Conroy, Marlin Garrett, Casey Reder, Harris Eisenbraun, Quaren White, Tanner Pierce, Kalo Garrett, Judy and Charlotte Red Willow, Emma Swifthawk, Tyrell Pierce, Tara Pierce, Alida Pierce, Pam Amiotte, Jason Goings, along with all family and friends whose lives Jess touched throughout the years.
Wake Services: Visitation will be held from 11:00 AM ~ 1:00 PM, Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church Hall in Kyle, SD
Funeral Services: 1:00 PM, Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church Hall in Kyle, SD
Officiating: Minister Mona Vocu
Burial Services: Bull Bear Family Cemetery, Red Water ~ Kyle, SD
Arrangements entrusted with the Sioux Funeral Home of Pine Ridge, SD