MARK S. PIERSON

MARK S. PIERSON, 68, of West Warwick, passed away peacefully while surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence. He was the beloved husband and best friend of Wanda L. (Chauvette) Pierson, with whom he shared 43 wonderful years of marriage.

Born in Warwick, Mark was a son of the late Lionel and Teresa (Graziosi) Pierson. 

Raised in Coventry, Mark graduated from Coventry High School with the Class of 1976. Shortly after graduation, he proudly enlisted in the Rhode Island Army National Guard, where he served as an Infantryman, telecommunications specialist (COMMO), and Supply Specialist. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant and received the Army Reserve Achievement Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and Humanitarian Service Medal for his efforts assisting stranded motorists during the Blizzard of 1978.

Mark dedicated nearly 30 years of service to the former Providence Gas Company, now Rhode Island Energy, where he worked as a Gas & Service Technician before retiring. He was known for his strong work ethic, willingness to lend a helping hand, and the friendships he built throughout his career.

He was happiest when he had a project to work on and rarely liked to sit still for long. He enjoyed keeping his hands busy around the house, always finding something to repair, improve, or build. He took great pride in working on his Jeep and spent many hours tinkering with it. He also had a passion for building model kits, bringing patience, skill, and attention to detail to each one. Through these hobbies, he created not only things he could be proud of, but also memories that those who loved him will cherish.

Mark’s greatest joy was his role as "Papa." He leaves behind a legacy of love in his children, Heather (Pierson) Hargis and her husband James of Coventry, and Matthew Pierson and his fiancée Jenna Smith of Cumberland. He was the loving grandfather of seven beautiful grandchildren, Thomas Hargis and Kameron Hargis, both of Coventry, and Owen Peterson, Travis Pierson, Rook Smith-Pierson, Knox Smith-Pierson, and eagerly awaiting the arrival of his first granddaughter this July, all of Cumberland.

He is also survived by his brothers, Gilbert “Gil” Pierson and Ronald “Ron” Pierson, and was predeceased by his brothers, Michael “Mike” Pierson and Thomas “Tom” Pierson. Mark also leaves behind many dear nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and his faithful cat, Simba.

A private Inurnment with Military Funeral Honors will be held at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Exeter. 

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