Lawrence “Buddy” Jerome Pierce Jr., a devoted family man, and beloved friend, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2026, at Bayhealth Sussex Campus at the age of 74.

Buddy was born on September 13, 1951, in Wilmington, DE to the late Lawrence Sr. and Ida Pierce. He attended school in Middletown and graduated from Middletown High School. After high school he began working and throughout his career, Buddy contributed almost 30 years of dedicated service to DuPont as a Chemical Operator. His commitment and work ethic garnered the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers across the decades, making a lasting impact that will be remembered by all who worked alongside him.

He embraced a lifetime filled with dedication, warmth, and commitment to those he loved and the community he served. He cherished life's simple pleasures, especially traveling with Cynthia. Together, they created lasting memories on their annual anniversary trips to Williamsburg, Virginia—a tradition that reflected the depth of their partnership and the happiness they shared. He was also an avid sports fan and loved watching his Philadelphia Eagles. His passion for sports extended into coaching youth basketball, where he served as a mentor and role model for countless young athletes. He also found great enjoyment in playing tennis. Aside from sports his happy place was sitting on the porch listening to music with Alexa.

Buddy is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Cynthia Pierce; his three children Lisa Cale (Parrish) of Townsend, DE, Tracey Pierce and Angela Pierce both of Middletown, DE; four grandchildren, Theren Lively Jr., Nasir Pierce, Charles Roberts, and Zaquerai Pierce; 2 great-grandchildren D'ior Lively and Asai Lively; and his siblings—Stanford Pierce (Deborah), Donald Pierce (Debra), Steven Pierce (Joyce), Robert Pierce (Patricia), Gordon Pierce, Lawann Blackston (Verdell), Nancy Wheeler, and James Pierce (Sharlynn).

Along with his parents he is preceded in death by his brother-in-law Joseph Wheeler and sister-in-laws Patricia “Pat” Pierce and Roxanne “Rocky” Wright. 

A visitation will be held on July 31, 2026 from 12:00 PM until 1:00 PM in the Galena Funeral Home of Stephen L. Schaech 118 W Cross St, Galena, MD. A memorial service will follow at 1:00 PM.

Family, friends, and all whose lives were graced by Buddy’s kindness are warmly invited to gather in remembrance and celebration of a remarkable life well lived.