Craig F. Pierce 74, of Bushnell
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; sisterin- 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.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A Memorial Service will be held at 2PM on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the Community Christian Center, 355 W. Main Street, Bushnell. The family will host a Celebration of Life immediately following the service, with a 4PM Farewell Toast to CF at the Bushnell VFW.
