We wanted to take a moment to remember a great man and pillar of Inland Lighthouse Church who has recently passed on to his reward, Rev. Richard Pierce.

Richard Alvin Pierce, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and devoted man of God, passed away at the age of 85. Born on June 16, 1938, in East Los Angeles, California, Richard’s early years were spent in Paso Robles and Monterey, where he developed a strong work ethic in his father’s upholstery shop.

Graduating from high school in Monterey in 1956, Richard’s journey took him to Vista, California. There, alongside his father and brothers, he continued honing his skills in the family business. His pursuit of education led him to San Diego State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering in 1960. It was at SDSU where he met Joyce Bonds, the love of his life. Their union in September 1961 marked the beginning of a loving and enduring partnership.

The young couple moved to Los Angeles, where Richard embarked on a career as an engineer. The birth of their daughter, Holly Bren, in 1966, and their son, Adam Reed, in 1969, added joy to their lives. A pivotal moment came in 1967 when Richard received the gift of the Holy Ghost and was baptized in Jesus’ name. His faith deepened, leading him to pastor the Apostolic Tabernacle in Costa Mesa, California, from 1975 until his retirement in 1997.

Post-retirement, Richard lived briefly in South Gate before settling in Rialto, California, where he attended Inland Lighthouse Church. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 62 years, Joyce Pierce; his daughter, Holly Garrett; his son, Adam Pierce; his son-in-law, Patrick Garrett; his daughter-in-law, Sharon Pierce; and seven grandchildren – Alexandria Flores, Caleb Pierce, Ian Garrett, Zachary Garrett, Jonathan Flores, Eunice Pierce, and Courtney Garrett. His legacy continues through his three great-grandchildren – Ember Flores, Luca Pierce, and Mateo Flores. He is also survived by his youngest brother, Roger Pierce.

Richard was a pillar of strength and an exemplar of faith. His life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to God, his family, his church, and his faith. A wonderful husband, an amazing father, grandfather, and great grandfather, Richard was a man of integrity, a preacher of the Gospel, and a true steward of God’s blessings. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him and loved him.

 “His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” – Matthew 25:21