James Pierson Obituary

James Baxter Pierson Sr., fondly known as "Baxter," passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, at the age of 85. Born in Providence Community, Sumter, Baxter lived a life deeply rooted in faith, service, and unwavering devotion to his loved ones.
The son of George G. Pierson and Evie Osteen Pierson, Baxter was raised in a close-knit family alongside his siblings Hazel Wilson, Fran Kolar (deceased), Paul Pierson (deceased), Sam Pierson (deceased), Marguerite Morris (deceased), and Gaither "Bill" Pierson (deceased). Baxter's life was marked by the virtues of sacrifice and kindness, and he continually placed others before himself in both word and deed.
Baxter is survived by his loving partner of 23 years Linda Ingram; his sons, James ("Jimmy") Baxter Pierson Jr. (Michelle Yeates) and Christopher Pierson, (Christine Wagner); and his dear sister, Hazel Wilson, Grandchildren Brittney Smith Hawkins (Greg), Heath Smith (Jen), Kristen Summer Crib (Chad), Troy Pierson and Kara Pierson, Great-Grandchildren Evie Hawkins, Adley Crib and Avery Pierson. He is also lovingly remembered by many relatives, friends, and the communities he touched. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Carla Ann Smith, wife to Mark Smith.
From an early age, Baxter embodied the values of honor, commitment, and hard work. He proudly achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, earning an impressive 33 merit badges, and was awarded both the prestigious God and Country Award and membership in the Order of the Arrow. These early achievements laid the foundation for a lifetime of selfless service.
Baxter was a dedicated youth coach for over 16 years, mentoring children in baseball, softball, and basketball through leagues such as SKIB (Sumter Kids in Baseball), church softball and basketball leagues, and the YMCA Basketball League. He believed that every child deserved patience, encouragement, and the opportunity to grow-values he instilled in all his players.
Professionally, Baxter served his community with humility and diligence. He worked as a courier and delivery supervisor for the Sumter Daily Item for 10 years, hosted trips to the SC Governor's office for top employees and retired from an exemplary, 36-year career with the United States Postal Service, where his colleagues will remember his generosity and steadfast dependability.
A man of robust faith, Baxter served the Lord with devotion since accepting Christ in April 1949. He was a lifelong member of Alice Drive Baptist Church, contributing to roles such as youth and adult teacher, RA director, usher, deacon and Chairman of deacons. His selflessness and faith were evident in every aspect of his life. Baxter's passions included traveling-having explored 45 out of 50 states-and he was a devoted supporter of the USC Gamecocks, never missing a chance to cheer on his favorite teams, whether it was football, baseball, or basketball.
A visitation will be held at Alice Drive Baptist Church on July 18, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. EST, with the funeral service immediately following at 1:00 p.m., officiated by Pastor Todd Fleming and Pastor John Benenhaley.
A private graveside service will be held for the family.
The Pallbearers will be Troy Pierson, Heath Smith, Mark Smith, Andy Bramlett, Greg Hawkins and Sulton Carter.
Honorary pallbearers include Gobie McElveen, Jim West, Cody McGee, Leo Thomas, Emmett Tolso, Shortie Shipman and Jim Easler. Flowers can be sent to Alice Drive Baptist Church for the service.
Donations in his honor can be made to the Dementia Society of America for Lewy Body Dementia.
Baxter's legacy of faith, service, and love endures-a testament to a life well-lived in the spirit of Christ. He will be deeply missed by all whose lives he so richly blessed.
You may go to www.bullockfuneralhome.com and sign the family's guest book.
The family has chosen Bullock Funeral Home of Sumter for the arrangements.
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