Clarence Virgil Pierce

Mr. Clarence Virgil Pierce, 92, of Dalton, died after a long life and a short illness on Monday, Dec. 12, 2011.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie Dean Pierce; brothers, Willis, Alvin, Arvil and John; sisters, Leola and Sybil.

Born May 4, 1919, Clarence, better known as “Papa,” was raised in Whitfield County. He was a veteran of World War II, having served as staff sergeant in the United States Army. Upon leaving the service, he returned to Dalton and was a baker ar Davis Bake Shop for 47 years until he retired.

A longtime member of Central Church of Christ, Clarence served as its treasurer for 16 years.

He leaves behind many friends at the Senior Center with whom he shared lunch for several years. He will be remembered by many as the “baker” of their birthday and wedding cakes and for a squirt of icing on many of their children’s fingers.

A kind and gentle soul, our “Papa” will be missed.

He is survived by one son, Lamar David Pierce Sr., his wife “Skeeter”; grandchildren, Catherine Pierce Martin, Mary Ellen Pierce and Lamar David Pierce Jr.; great-grandchildren, Harrison Martin and Charlie Martin; sister, Lois Ward; sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Joey and Clyde Callahan; nieces and nephews and special friend, Jack Brown.

Services will be at 3 p.m. Thursday at Central Church of Christ with Ross Jordan officiating.

Burial will be in Whitfield Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends Thursday at Central Church of Christ from 1 p.m. until the service at 3 p.m.

The family requests that flowers be omitted and memorials be made to the Dalton-Whitfield Senior Center, 302 Cappes St., Dalton, GA 30720.

Words of comfort may be sent to the family at www.lovefuneralhomega.com.

Love Funeral Home, 1402 N. Thornton Ave., Dalton, is in charge of arrangements.