Had Been The Youngest Pilot Hired By Trans Texas Airways

Walter Wayne Pierce, 79, passed away peacefully at his Irving, TX home May 8, 2019. He was born January 11, 1940, in Bell California.

Walt grew up in Roswell, New Mexico where as a teenager he rode his bike to the airport and washed airplanes in trade for flight lessons. He joined the U.S. Air Force on January 11, 1957. After the Air Force, he was hired as the youngest pilot at Trans Texas Airways, according to an obituary provided by the family and posted to Facebook.

Propelled by a dream of being an airshow pilot, he flew many airplanes in a variety of jobs. He reached his aspiration, flying airshows across the United States and Canada since the early 1960’s. He was known for flying aerobatics carrying wing-walker(s) on the wings of his 1940 Stearman biplane ‘Ol Smokey. He retired a few years ago from the airshow business with over 20,000 hours of flight time.

He is preceded in death by his father, Walter Wesley Pierce, of California, mother, Velma Langley, of Roswell, New Mexico, son, Frank Pierce, of Texas and Victoria Pierce (daughter of Shawn and Ron) of Texas.

He is survived by his sister Linda Valentine (husband Jack) of Lincoln, New Mexico. His children are Ginger Pierce, Shawn Dell Pierce (husband Ron) and Richard Garland (wife Tracey) all of Texas; 15 grandchildren - Richard, Adam, Teddy, Zack, Chaz, Brian, Christopher, Katelyn, Joshua, Meagan, Jacob, Jessica, Aaron, Elizabeth and 14 great-grandchildren.

Several people have asked how they can help in this time of need. The family is burdened with the cost of expenses. If you would like to help by donating or a financial gift, please contact Chism-Smith Funeral Home, Irving Texas at the link below.

All gifts and donations will be applied to the funeral expenses for Walt Pierce. The family is beyond grateful by your love and generosity.

(Image posted to Facebook)

FMI: www.facebook.com/randy.henderson.714/posts/2497881897107004