Craig (CF) Pierce, 74, of Bushnell, Illinois passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Tuesday, June 16, 2026.
Craig was born on December 24, 1951, in Avon, Illinois, to the late Blanford S. Pierce and Faith E. (Tappero) Pierce. He entered the world alongside his twin brother, Cary B. Pierce, beginning a lifelong bond that remained one of the greatest blessings of his life.
On March 15, 1975, Craig married the love of his life, Susan K. Turner. Together, they built a life centered on family, love, and cherished memories.
Craig is survived by his wife, Susie; his children, Matthew (Michelle) Shirk of Jacksonville, Florida, Kristi Pierce of Destin, Florida, Dean Pierce of Naperville, Illinois, and Octavian (Austin) Pierce of Bushnell, Illinois; seven grandchildren, Pierce Shirk, Kierra, Delayna, Craig, Jayden, Jada, and Rodrick; and four great-grandchildren; Nelia, Aviana, Kaisen, and Yara.
Also surviving are his six siblings, Kathleen F. (Steve) Berg of Kailua, Hawaii, Sharon F. Pierce of Bushnell, Illinois, Cary B. (Theresa) Pierce of Wheaton, Illinois, Tina (Steve) Lovejoy of Bushnell, Illinois, Curtis E. (Beth) Pierce of Avon, Illinois and Kimberly S. (Steve Walters) Pierce of Bushnell, Illinois; sister-in-law, Julie Pierce of Marietta, Illinois; and numerous beloved nieces and nephews. Additionally, Craig took great pride in his international exchange students— Reiko, Jesus, Dominic, and Liliana—each of whom became a lifelong member of the family and continues to maintain a close relationship today.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his son, William “Billy” Shirk; his sister, Carol Kay Pierce; and his brother, H. Kent Pierce.
Craig was a proud Eagle Scout and graduated from Bushnell-Prairie City High School before continuing his education at Western Illinois University and later earning his Juris Doctor from Northern Illinois University College of Law. While attending law school, Craig was elected to the Honor Court and ultimately served as Chief Justice. He and Cary attended law school together and graduated in 1979, a milestone that further strengthened their lifelong bond.
Craig earned the affectionate nickname “Captain Justice” from a fellow attorney and friend years ago—a moniker warmly embraced by family and friends that remained with him throughout his life. The nickname reflected both his natural leadership and his steadfast commitment to fairness and justice. He practiced law under the motto, “Crime takes no holiday, and neither do we,” a testament to his tireless dedication to serving others.
Following graduation, Craig opened Pierce Law Offices. During his early years in practice, he also served as the McDonough County Public Defender. Over the course of a distinguished 45-year legal career, he became a highly successful and respected attorney, concentrating in criminal law, domestic relations, and personal injury. Craig’s dedication to his clients, keen legal mind, and steadfast pursuit of justice earned him the admiration and respect of colleagues, clients, and members of the community throughout the region.
In addition to his legal practice, he was an entrepreneur and co-owner of Delaney’s in Bushnell. He was well-known for generously supporting local causes and could always be counted on to be front and center at most of the local fundraising events. He thrived on throwing parties and for years he and ‘his crew of merry men’ held epic hog roasts that created lasting memories for all who attended. From an early age, it was evident that politics would play an important role in Craig’s life. At just three years old, Craig and Cary proudly sported “Ring the Bells for IKE” t-shirts, foreshadowing a lifelong passion for public service and civic engagement. During his years at Bushnell-Prairie City High School, Craig served on Student Council and successfully ran for Class President in an election that remains legendary among classmates, as his twin brother, Cary, served as Vice President.
Perhaps Craig’s most meaningful public role was serving as Chairman of the McDonough County Republican Party, a position he held for nearly 20 years. In that capacity, he developed valued friendships and relationships with individuals across all levels of the political spectrum. His service afforded him opportunities to visit the Illinois State Capitol and the Governor’s Mansion during the administrations of three Illinois governors. He also had the opportunity to meet and visit with former President George H.W. Bush and former First Lady Barbara Bush.
Craig’s dedication to his party and community was recognized when he was named Republican of the Year by his fellow McDonough County Republicans. He also served as a witness in one of the most widely publicized political trials in Illinois’ history involving former Governor George H. Ryan. Craig often reflected that his years as County Chairman were among the greatest honors and blessings of his life.
Outside of his legal career, Craig enjoyed spending time poolside, whether at home or in Florida, where he owned and captained his boat before eventually building a second home. He was deeply devoted to his family and treasured the time spent with those he loved. Craig was a member of the B-PC School Board and actively participated in his family’s lives, coaching youth sports teams, attending countless activities and events.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 2PM-4PM at the Community Christian Center (Bushnell). Immediately following the service there will be a farewell toast to CF at the Bushnell VFW.
Martin-Hollis Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. You may leave condolences and sign the guest book online at martinhollisfh.com In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Illinois Special Olympics of McDonough County, the Bushnell Rescue Squad or the McDonough County Humane Society.
CF will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to family, distinguished legal career, commitment to public service, and the countless lives he touched through his generosity, humor, wisdom, and friendship.
