Charles Ray Pierce

Charles Ray Pierce, 89, of Stanton, passed away Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at his home.  He will lie in state from 2pm until 9pm, Sunday, April 27, 2025 at Gilbreath Funeral Home of Stanton with the family receiving friends from 2pm until 4pm. Graveside services will be at 10am, Monday, April 28, 2025 at Evergreen Cemetery.

Charles was born on December 19, 1935, in Big Spring, Texas, to Troy C. Pierce and Elizabeth Robinson Pierce. He married LaRue Angel on January 21, 1955, at Courtney Baptist Church. Charles and LaRue were the true definition of soulmates and celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on January 21, 2025.

Charles was a self-made engineer—creative and resourceful, he could design and build anything he needed to complete a job. A dedicated farmer and craftsman, he also built many structures in the Martin County community. After retirement, Charles and LaRue traveled the Bluegrass Festival Circuit, cherishing the many friendships they made along the way.

Charles was 11 years old when he accepted Jesus at Coahoma Baptist Church. He loved the Lord with all his heart and soul and was a member of Tarzan Baptist Church. He had a lifelong passion for Bluegrass and Gospel music and was a talented banjo player. The Pierce Family Band was a beloved part of the community, performing and traveling to festivals across several states. Above all, Charles deeply loved his family and treasured the time spent with them.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, LaRue (Angel) Pierce; his children: Carla Ingram (Brad), Jackie Smith (Mike), Laura Graves (Craig), and Don Pierce; grandchildren: Shana Archila (Abi), Dustin Charles Griffith (Adrienne), Pierce Roberts, Jessica Bryand (Sherman), John Michael Smith (Sarah), Michael Graves (Katarina), Michelle Graves, Gabrielle Kurt (Guillaume), Victoria O’Faolain (Macdára), and Kaitlin Pierce; and great-grandchildren: Stella Joy, Gattlin Charles, Gage, Maddie, Parker, Eliott, Max, Noah, and Nathan.

He is also survived by his siblings: Margaret Stovall, Edward Pierce (Mary Jane), and Lou Wanda Faubion (Danny); along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and a host of friends.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Stella Pierce; and siblings Alene Pierce and Billy Pierce.

Honorary pallbearers are grandsons, Dustin Charles Griffith, Pierce Roberts, John Michael Smith and Michael Graves.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, the Martin County Historical Museum, or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Gilbreath Funeral Home of Stanton. Online condolences may be shared at www.npwelch.com.

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