Pierce Durham Obituary

Pierce Durham

April 17, 2026

Pierce Durham, 88, of Temple Terrace, Florida, formerly of Kingsport, Tennessee, passed away peacefully, due to natural causes, on April 17, 2026. He was born on November 5, 1937, in Boone's Creek (now Johnson City), Tennessee to James P. Durham and Grace Johnson Durham. From humble beginnings, he joined the military and experienced the world: serving in the US Marines during the late 50s, then joining the US Army in the 60s. He served four tours of duty in the Vietnam War as a Green Beret, and continued serving until his retirement from the US Army, as a Sergeant Major, in 1988. He then worked as a civilian at SOCOM (Special Operations COMmand) in Tampa, Florida, until his ultimate retirement in 2000.

He is survived by his wife, Masako, and two sons, Christian and Alexander, as well as five grandchildren and five great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, two infant daughters, daughter Crystal Durham Feagins, sister Frances Durham Watkins, brothers Jack, John, and Michael Bales, as well as his beloved foster parents Edwin and Rose McIntyre. In addition to his duties as an outstanding soldier, he was the paramount provider; ensuring his family was always provided with every necessity and more.

No service will be conducted, as Mr. Durham had wanted a simple cremation. He did receive a brief ceremonial Final Salute held at the VA Hospital in which he passed. In lieu of flowers, please send any donations to Friends of the Library at the Johnson City Public Library in Johnson City, Tennessee: jcpl.org/support/friends.