Deceased December 29, 2023
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In Memory
Jim Pierson passed away on Dec. 29, 2023, at the age of 96 from Alzheimer’s disease. Jim graduated from Glen Ridge High School in New Jersey and then spent a year in the Naval Air Corps.
At Amherst, he belonged to Chi Psi and was co-captain of both the indoor and outdoor track teams, winning his “A” in those sports for three years as well as in squash. He considered Amherst’s education a great gift. Popular with the class, he was elected class marshal.
Jim went to work for the J.W. Pierson Company, founded by his grandfather in 1888. Early on, he diversified from building materials into the fuel oil industry. Under his skillful management, and with the hard work of many faithful employees to whom he was devoted, the company became very successful. At one point, Jim was elected president of the Fuel Merchants Association of New Jersey. Several years ago, the Amherst magazine featured Jim and his company.
Jim had a keen interest in music, whether it was an opera, a concert, or an organ recital. He read extensively, particularly history. Boating, clamming and surfcasting on Nantucket were favorite vacation activities.
Few members of 1950 have been as committed and involved in their community as Jim. He was inducted into the East Orange (N.J.) Hall of Fame in 2018. He was a member of the Glen Ridge Civic Council (a community governing body) and became commissioner of the local police and fire departments. He was also on the boards of the East Orange General Hospital and Glen Ridge Savings and Loan.
Jim is survived by his wife, Nancy, and his five daughters, Amy, Catherine, Jennifer, Sally and Phoebe. Jim was proud of his 10 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Catherine Pierson and John Priesing ’50