Brian S. Pierce

WORCESTER:      Retired Worcester Firefighter, Brian “Buzzy” Pierce, 73, a lifelong Worcester resident passed away at home surrounded by his beloved family Saturday, September 30, 2023 after a lengthy and courageous battle with Parkinson's Disease.  

Brian was born in Worcester, the son of John J. and Rose (Simone) Pierce and graduated from Worcester Boys Trade.  In 1976, Brian married the “Love of his life” Peggy Anderson and began a life of love, family and service to his city.   

On June 26, 1977, Brian was appointed to the Worcester Fire Department and assigned to engine 3 at Headquarters on Grove St.  He then moved to Engine 1, in the downtown Central Division Station before becoming a Rescue 1 member, where he met his best friend and longtime partner on the Rescue truck Paul ‘Aldo” Bastardo. They were credited with saving the lives of over 30 citizens over the years. Brian, as a member of the Rescue truck, was also a member of the Scuba squad. He retired in July 2001.

He is survived by his Love, wife and partner of 47 years, Peggy; his two children,  Lt. Michael Pierce WFD, who followed his father to the fire department and is notably a lieutenant on the Rescue Truck, and his wife Allison Pierce of Auburn, his “little girl” Stephanie Pierce and her wife Stephanie Manzo of Stow; four cherished grandchildren, Nolan, Josephine, Leo and Rocco; brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and many loyal and cherished friends.  

When not protecting the citizens of Worcester, Brian owned and operated his own construction company. He had a talent for repairing and fixing anything.  In addition to woodworking, he enjoyed antique cars and he owned many corvettes in the 60s and 70s. As a former baseball pitcher, he adored watching Stephanie pitch in her softball games in high school and college. He also enjoyed attending Michael’s crew meets over the years. He was a devoted father and his kids were his pride and joy.

Brian's big personality matched his size and stature. He had a great sense of humor and was well known for his practical jokes both at home and across the Worcester fire department. Brian had a huge heart, bright smile, always willing to help someone in need.  He epitomized the quote “when all were running away from a fire, Brian was always running towards the danger.”  

Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours, Thursday, October 5th from 4 pm to 7 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St.  A Celebration of Buzzy’s life will be on Friday, October 6th at 11:00 am in the funeral home followed by a procession passing by the multiple fire stations in which he served through the city he protected.  Burial will follow in All Faith’s Cemetery.