A memorial service will be held at 1 pm on Friday, October 30th, 2020 at First United Methodist Church of Columbia to celebrate the life of Billy Hugh "Rabbit" Pierce, 61, who passed away October 23rd, 2020.

Visitation will be from 12-1 at First United Methodist Church. The service will be officiated by the Reverends Rob and Erin Grant, with music provided by local music group No Strings Attached.

Bill was born in Marion County on November 14th, 1958. He graduated from Columbia High School in 1976, where his lifelong friendships took root. He attended the University of Mississippi and was an ardent fan of the Ole Miss Rebels, a passion which he shared with his two children who went on to graduate from there. After finishing at William Carey College, he taught high school chemistry, anatomy and physiology, and biology at East Marion High School for many years, and later worked as a nurse at various health care facilities including The Myrtles in Columbia.

Rabbit is best remembered for his sense of humor. He really knew how to have a good time, and everywhere he was, there was laughter. Those who knew and loved him will recall his (formerly) bright red hair, his affinity for animals, his caring spirit, his enduring faith in God, his love of oldies radio, his obsession with fantasy novels, and, above all, that he lived for his two children, William and Grace Ann.

He is preceded in death by his father, Toxie Q. Pierce, a decorated World War II veteran, and his mother, Bobbie Littleton Pierce, who was his rock.
He is survived by his brother, Samuel Joe Pierce of Columbia, son, William Alford Pierce, currently of Los Angeles, CA, daughter, Grace Ann Pierce, currently of Paris, France, and ex-wife and mother of his children, Beth Ball Pierce of Columbia.

Honorary pallbearers at the service will be Dr. Merwin Moore, III, Mark Westmoreland, Keith Westmoreland, Kevin Kemp, Bill Weiskopf, Brandon Prine, Mike Bobo, Hal Fortenberry, and Rodney Fortenberry.

Hathorn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

"Born in Mississippi by the grace of God."