John Joseph Pierce, OFM

The Rev. John J. Pierce, O.F.M. of St. Anthony Friary died February 22, 2025 at age 93 following an extended illness. He was a professed Franciscan Friar 66 years, and a Catholic Priest 61 years. 

A native of Melrose, MA, Father John was born February 16, 1932 to Ralph and Frances (Mutty) Pierce. In early years he was known for his athleticism, exhibiting his collegiate football prowess at St. Bonaventure in western New York state, and at St. Michael's College in Vermont. 

Father John entered the Franciscan Order in 1957, professing first vows in 1958, then final vows as a Franciscan Friar of Holy Name (New York) Province in 1961. Concurrently he pursued theological studies in Washington, DC. 

He was ordained to the Catholic Priesthood in 1963, in Washington. He later attained a Master of Divinity degree from Seton Hall University. 

In accord with his motto, "All give some, some give all," Father John volunteered as a U.S. Navy Chaplain, attaining the rank of Lieutenant attached to the First Marine Division in Vietnam, 1968-1970. He was awarded the Bronze Star medal in 1970. 

Returning stateside, Father John served in Franciscan parishes in then East Paterson (Elmwood Park), Garfield, Fair Lawn, Wood-Ridge, and West Milford. Later assignments in New York State located Father John at Obernburg in Sullivan County, and a Chaplaincy at St. Anthony Hospital, Warwick, NY. 

In retirement, because of medical needs, Father John resided at the New Jersey Veterans Administration Hospital at Lyons since 2019. 

Father John is survived by his Franciscan confreres in Our Lady of Guadalupe Province (USA), and by nephews and nieces in the greater Boston, MA area. He was predeceased by his brothers Ralph Pierce and Dana Pierce, and his sisters Miriam Frances Pierce Scully, Priscilla A. McNally, and Estelle Pierce Burton, plus a nephew, Gerard Pierce. 

Visitation: Monday, March 3, 2025, 9;30 a.m., St. Anthony Church, 65 Bartholdi Ave, Butler, NJ. Mass of Christian Burial, 10:30 a.m., also at St. Anthony Church. Burial following at Mount Calvary Cemetery, Butler.