James Gary Piersall

James Gary Piersall, left this world May 17, 2025, after a short illness. He spent the last few months loving donuts, Dr. Pepper, and continuing to sing Karaoke or along with the radio. Whether it was an old hymn, Ray Price, or something totally unexpected, his karaoke and choir performances were legendary. He sang with heart, with humor, and with a joy that reminded everyone not to take life too seriously. Every road trip was filled with John Denver and Glen Campbell sing-a-longs!

Born in 1945, he was raised by his mom, grandfather, grandmother, and sisters in Baltic, South Dakota. He played football and earned his degree in Education/History from Sioux Falls College. He loved sports and spent countless hours playing volleyball, handball, and slow-pitch softball. After moving from Sioux Falls, to Iowa, to Michigan, the majority of his life was spent in Houston Texas, where he loved not having to shovel snow or get up early to milk cows in the snow! Beach volleyball quickly replaced cross-country skiing in his sports rotation. He always had a story to tell, to anyone who would listen. Most of them were true, and only some were a bit embellished.

A heartfelt thank you to Capstone Hospice, Altus Hospice, and Eagle Crest Rapid Recovery.

Left to carry on his tunes are his two children, Jay Piersall, (wife Teri), Jill Parmeter (husband Chris), six smart and fabulous grandchildren, and sister Carol Francisco. His sister Sharon Delfs and mother Swanhild Piersall preceded him to sing in the heavenly church choir.

Burial and family graveside prayer pending at East Nidaros Lutheran Cemetery in Baltic, South Dakota in August.