Piercy Heard, Jr.

Piercy Heard, Jr., age 76, of Benton, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2026, at Baptist Health Medical Center. He was born September 11, 1949, in Benton, Arkansas, to the late Piercy Heard, Sr. and Susie Heard.

Piercy proudly served his country in the United States Army, carrying with him a spirit of dedication and honor throughout his life. Following his military service, he spent many years working as a welder for Alcoa, where he built a career through hard work and determination before retiring.

Above all else, Piercy was devoted to his family. He was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend whose greatest joy came from being surrounded by those he loved. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, shooting pool, and listening to down-home blues music.

Piercy was known for his larger-than-life personality and unforgettable sense of humor. Many would say he should have carried the nickname "Dolomites" because of the way he could light up a room with laughter. He loved to talk a little jive, tease those he cared about, and keep everyone on their toes. Yet beneath the joking and storytelling was a man full of wisdom, often sharing clever sayings and bits of advice that his family still laughs about and treasures today.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Tommy Ray Heard and Essie Heard; and his beloved great-granddaughter, Bella Brothers.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Tisha Heard-Turrell and husband, Patrick, and Crystal Heard-Penney. He was a proud grandfather to Tiara Richardson, Brianna Penney, Brian "BJ" Penney, Ronan Richardson and wife, Skylar, and Braylan Penney, Sr. His great-grandchildren, Benjamin Brothers, Maxwell Brothers, Rayjon Richardson, Braylon Penney, Jr., and Amarria Brothers, brought tremendous joy to his life and held a special place in his heart.

Piercy also leaves behind his sisters, Ruthie Ann Sims, Amel Ponial and husband, James, Rosie Cooper and husband, Don, and Joe Ann Clegg and husband, John, Sr. He is survived by his special friend and caregiver, Linda Anderson, and by Christine Heard, the mother of his children. He valued the love, support, and companionship they shared through the years.

Those who knew Piercy will remember his warm smile, his quick wit, and the way he made people feel welcome. Whether he was telling stories, sharing one of his famous sayings, listening to the blues, or simply enjoying the company of family and friends, he left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Visitation will be held Thursday, July 9, 2026, from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. at Smith Family Funeral Home in Benton, 322 N. Market Street, Benton, Arkansas. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m., with burial to follow at 1:00 p.m. at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock.

Though his family mourns his passing, they find comfort in the many memories they shared with him and in the legacy of love, laughter, service, and devotion he leaves behind. Piercy will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home.  Online guestbook:  www.SmithFamilyCares.com.