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Calvin Howard Pierce of San Bernardino passed away on Sunday, July 27, 2014 in Loma Linda, California after a short illness. He was 85 years old. Calvin retired from the San Bernardino County Marshal’s Department in 1989 after more than 30 years of service. At retirement he received the designation of honorary captain. During his career as a Marshal he also served as a bailiff in the Superior Court system and earned several awards and commendations for improving court system operations. In fact, his initiative resulted in Marshals being assigned department vehicles. One of the first African American Marshals in the department, he also designed the Marshal’s department badge. Before joining the Marshal’s department, Calvin was a mechanic for Santa Fe Railroad.
A lifelong resident of San Bernardino, he was born January 11, 1929 to Emmett Caldwell Pierce and Eula Mae Carter, the second of three sons. He graduated from San Bernardino High School in 1947. That same year he married his sweetheart– the love of his life! – Barbara Pulliams. To this union three children were born: Francis, Brenda, and Valerie.
Throughout life, Calvin had many interests including architecture, photography, jewelry making, and beaded walking sticks. Another of his favorite hobbies was fishing (including deep sea) with his buddies. He also enjoyed cruising on a motorcycle with Barbara. A remarkable athlete, he was nicknamed “Windmill Cal” in recognition of his cake walk style of running, which he used to return kickoff returns of up to 99 yards. He was an award winning sprinter, runner (Loma Linda Lopers), cyclist, and bowler who participated in multiple marathons and tournaments. A leader and generous by nature, he was a member of San Bernardino Kiwanis.
Calvin was tremendously loved by his family. He is remembered for his sharp and charming sense of humor. Calvin was a calming and steady presence in the lives of his family members and friends; and will be always remembered as loving, humorous, and dependable.
Calvin is survived by his wife of 67 years Barbara Pulliams Pierce; three children: Francis Howard Pierce of Grand Terrace, Brenda Joyce Lilly of San Bernardino, and Valerie Ann Futch (Terry) of Grand Terrace. An adored grandfather, he is lovingly remembered by four grandchildren: Tiffany Hinton (Glenn), Cherysa Cortez (Jerome), Corey Futch, and Shandyn Pierce; seven great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. Also left to cherish his memory are his brothers Mr. Tyree Pierce of San Bernardino and Dr. Robert Pierce of St. Louis, Missouri. He was also a favorite uncle, cousin, and nephew in a large extended family rooted in California, Arizona, and Missouri. Calvin also will be remembered by a host of friends he held dear.
A memorial to honor him will be held Thursday, July 31, 2014 at 10 a.m. at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, 1575 W. 17th Street, San Bernardino, California 92411.
