The Akins Funeral Home of Blue Ridge announces the death of Mr. Billy Ernest Pierce, age 79, of Blue Ridge who passed away on Friday, September 9, 2011 in Skyridge Medical Center in Cleveland, TN. He was born in Fannin County on March 19, 1932 to the late Carl and Lola Watkins Pierce. Mr. Pierce retired from Cities Service as a roaster operator. He was a member of the Church of God. Mr. Pierce served honorably in the United States Army during the Korea War as a medic and was a combat veteran.

Survivors include his wife, Loretta Pierce of Blue Ridge, GA; three sons and two daughters-in-law, Billy Danny and Sherry Pierce of Blue Ridge, GA, Harold Dale Pierce of Blue Ridge, GA and Randall Ray and Judy Brendle of Farner, TN; one daughter, Angela Fay Beaver of Farner, TN; eight grandchildren and one great grandchild also survive.

Funeral services will be conducted on Monday, September 12, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. from the Akins of Blue Ridge Chapel with Rev. Shane Watts officiating. Pallbearers will be Bobby Weeks, James Richards, Alan Sisson, Brian Sisson, D.J. Green, Barry Gurley and Max Sisson. Military Honors will be provided by the North Georgia Honor Guard. Interment will follow in the Pleasant Grove Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home after 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 11, 2011, but especially from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Sunday evening. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.akinsfuneralhome.com. Akins Funeral Home of Blue Ridge is in charge of the arrangements.