WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. —  Francis Edward Pierce, Jr., known to family and friends as Fran, passed away at his home on August 15, 2026, in Port Orange, Florida, at the age of 70.

Fran was born on April 25, 1956, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, to Francis and Lorraine “Bunny” (Noel) Pierce. He was raised in Williamstown and graduated from Mount Greylock Regional High School in 1974. Throughout his life, Fran called Pittsfield, Boston, Oxford, and Sutton, Massachusetts, and ultimately Port Orange, Florida, home.

Fran was an incredibly hardworking man who took pride in doing things the right way. He began his career at Nicklien Shell Station in Williamstown, where he pumped gas and developed his skills as a mechanic. He later worked for J.J. Casey Inc., Hampshire Pipeline, and Grande Oil before beginning a 40-year career with Robert J. Devereaux Corp. in 1985. He worked as a foreman operator and was respected by his coworkers for his dedication, experience, and strong work ethic. Earlier in life, many will remember Fran behind the wheel of his big red dump truck, a familiar sight to those who knew him.

Outside of work, Fran found plenty of ways to stay busy and have fun. He especially loved his Harley and going on motorcycle rides. He appreciated the warm Florida weather, always found a project to work on, and was quick to lend a helping hand. Kings Family Campground held a special place in his heart, where he made lasting friendships, countless memories, and often held the title of horseshoes champion. He was also always up for a game of bingo, where his luck seemed to follow him.

Fran was a devoted fan of the New England Patriots, Boston Red Sox, and NASCAR. He had a contagious laugh and a knack for enjoying the simple pleasures in life: a bonfire, good friends, and a cold bottle of Budweiser. Above all, Fran loved his family deeply, and his daughters held a special place in his heart. He will be remembered for his generosity, dependability, and willingness to help others.

Fran is survived by his daughters, Julie Pierce, Kristen Pierce, and Michelle Pierce; his brothers, Donald Pierce and his wife, Denise (Weatherwax) Pierce, and Jay Pierce; his companion, Susan Jessee; his former partner, Lisa Thomann; and his former wife, Nancy James Pierce Danforth.

He is also survived by his grandchildren, Peyton LaBonte and Alex LaBonte; his nieces and nephew, Jackie (Pierce) Hartwig, Meagan Huttle, Amy Kaczowski, and Travis Kaczowski; his sister-in-law, Frances (Haley) Pierce; and his brother-in-law, Matthew Huttle.

He was predeceased by his siblings, Connie (Pierce) Huttle, Steven Pierce, and Sandra (Pierce) Kaczowski; his brother-in-law, Walter Kaczowski; and his niece, Melissa Kaczowski.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Flynn & Dagnoli Funeral Home, 74 Marshall Street, North Adams, MA 01247. A celebration of Fran’s life will follow at Bounti-Fare Restaurant, 200 Howland Avenue, Adams, MA 01220.

Flowers are welcome and may be sent to the funeral home. Those who wish to make a donation in Fran’s memory may do so to the Berkshire Food Project in North Adams, Massachusetts, or Halifax Urban Ministries (HUM) in Volusia County, Florida. To add to the book of memories please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com