Fred R. Piercy Sr.

January 6, 1934 – April 27, 2026

Fred Russell Piercy Sr., a devoted husband, respected civic leader, and lifelong resident of Caldwell County, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 27, 2026, at the age of 92.

Born on January 6, 1934, Fred dedicated his life to his family and his community. He shared an extraordinary 72-year marriage with the love of his life, Betty, a partnership built on loyalty and unwavering support.

A devout member of St. John's Lutheran Church of Hudson for more than 70 years, Fred was, at the time of his passing, its oldest living member. His faith was a cornerstone of his life and guided his actions, relationships, and service to others.

Fred was employed by Bernhardt Furniture as Director of Transportation for 43 years before retiring and then served as a Consultant Representative for CV International for 20 years prior to entering his final retirement.

Fred was widely known throughout Caldwell County for his commitment to public service and civic leadership. He took great pride in working to improve his community and leaves behind a lasting legacy of dedication and integrity. Among his many contributions, Fred served as an active member of the Caldwell County Board of Elections for 28 years as well as Chairman for 18 years, where his leadership and service were so impactful that a board room was named in his honor—a testament to the respect and admiration he earned over the years.

In addition to his civic work, Fred made a significant impact on North Carolina's furniture and trucking logistics industries. A respected figure in the field, he participated annually in the High Point Furniture Market and built lasting relationships across the industry. His contributions were formally recognized in 2015 when he received the prestigious Bill H. Teague Lifetime Achievement Award from the North Carolina League of Transportation and Logistics, honoring his exceptional dedication and lasting influence in transportation and logistics.

Fred was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army in 1956.

Fred served with the North Carolina Trucking Association as a board member for 15 years prior to being appointed Chairman in 1995; served for 20 years as a Foundation Board Member for Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute, assisting the college President in locating the Driver's Training Program on campus and this program remains very strong and active; became a member of the Catawba Valley Traffic Club in the early 60's and served two terms as President, in 1997 he was selected as the Person of the Year and was a Lifetime Member;  served as Chairman of the Transportation and Logistics Division of the American Furniture Manufactures Association; charter member of the Furniture Shippers Association which assists shippers with their transportation and logistics needs; served as Club President in 1967 of the Hudson Optimist Club of Lenoir and received the Distinguished President Award and also served as District Lt. Governor for the Optimist International in 1970-1972; served on the Board of Directors for 8 years for the Caldwell County Department of Social Services; and was an active member of the North Carolina League of Transportation and Logistics for over 20 years.

Those who knew Fred will remember him for his steady presence, strong values, and genuine care for others. He believed deeply in giving back and worked tirelessly to make Caldwell County a better place for future generations.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William M. Piercy and Parylee Moore Piercy; two brothers, Junior Piercy and Robert Piercy; and one sister, Margaret Piercy Sullivan.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Betty Curtis Piercy; his two children, Fred R. Piercy, Jr. (Holly) and Teresa Renegar (Jerry); four grandchildren, Matthew Renegar (Felicia), Heather Hodge (Robbie), Fred "Russell" Piercy, III, and William "Blake" Renegar (Mallory); seven great-grandchildren, Pepper, Zephyr, Ezer, Nolen, Maggie, Graham, and Tate; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Fred's life will be held on Sunday, May 3, 2026 at Greer-McElveen Funeral Home Chapel in Lenoir at 2:00 P.M. with Rev. Dan Duke officiating.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 P.M. at the funeral home.

Fred's life was one of purpose, service, and love. He will surely be missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. John's Lutheran Church, 352 Central Street, Hudson NC 28638.

Online condolences may be left at www.greer-mcelveenfuneralhome.com

Greer-McElveen Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the Piercy family.