**Prominent Tyler Civic Leader Mark Edward Pierce Dies at 66**
TYLER, Texas – Mark Edward Pierce, a distinguished figure in the Tyler community and retired Regional President for Atmos Energy, passed away on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at the age of 66. Pierce was widely recognized for his extensive professional career and profound dedication to numerous civic and non-profit organizations across East Texas.
Born on August 15, 1957, in Port Arthur, Texas, to Edward and Dorothy Pierce, Mark graduated from Port Neches-Groves High School in 1975 before earning a Finance degree from Lamar University in 1979. His professional journey began with Texas Utilities, later TXU, and culminated in a more than 30-year tenure at Atmos Energy, where he served as Regional President and was a member of their Management Council.
Beyond his corporate leadership, Pierce left an indelible mark on the Tyler area through his vast community involvement. He notably chaired the Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce (www.tylerchamber.com), the Tyler Economic Development Council (www.tylertexas.com/tedc), and the Tyler Area Partnership for Education. His commitment extended to serving on the Board of Directors for CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System (www.christushealth.org/trinity-mother-frances), the East Texas Symphony Orchestra (www.etso.org), and the Tyler ISD Foundation (www.tylerisdfoundation.org). He was also a dedicated member of First Presbyterian Church in Tyler, serving as an Elder, Trustee, Treasurer, and Head Usher. Additionally, Pierce was a Past President of both the Tyler Rose Festival (www.tylerrosefestival.com) and Willow Brook Country Club (www.willowbrookcc.com).
He is survived by his wife, Dena, and their two children, Dustin and Haley. His three grandchildren, Landon, Aubrey, and Luke, were a source of great joy, and he was a familiar presence at their sporting events. In his leisure time, Pierce enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing, and traveling with Dena. He remained a loyal fan of Port Neches-Groves sports and the UT Longhorns.
Visitation for Mark Edward Pierce will be held on Thursday, May 2, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Stewart Family Funeral Home, located at 7525 Old Jacksonville Hwy, Tyler, TX 75703 (www.stewartfamilyfuneral.com). A memorial service will take place on Friday, May 3, 2024, at 11:00 AM at First Presbyterian Church of Tyler, located at 230 W Rusk St, Tyler, TX 75701 (www.fpctyler.com). A private family graveside service will follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Tyler or the CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Foundation.
