Merle Banner Pierson

"The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn." ~ Unknown

Merle Banner Pierson, 87, resident of Scott County Virginia died February 25, 2026, at Holston Valley Hospital in Kingsport Tennessee. He was born on September 4, 1938, in Scott County, VA. Merle served three years in the U.S. Army, and he was self-employed in the timber business.

Merle was predeceased by his parents James Claude and Gladys (McNew) Pierson, sister Shelby Ervin, brother-in-law Bill Ervin, son David Banner Pierson, and ex-wife Shirley Ann Green Pierson.

He is survived by his son Dwight Merle Pierson and wife Kathy, daughter Marilyn Ann “Sis” Fields and husband Mark; grandchildren Dustin Pierson and wife Cynthia, Kristin Moye and husband Brandon, and Emily Kaslin Fields and fiancé Alex Tran. Great grandchildren Clementine Moye, Georgia Moye, Azalia Lin Pierson, and Micah Lin Pierson.

The family wishes to thank Merle’s many caregivers. This includes the staff of NOVA, Holston Valley Hospital, and special thanks to Remy Stidham and Brenda Salling.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Scott County Funeral Home Weber City. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 pm with Brother Garnie Snavely and Pastor George Gibson officiating. Special music will be provided by the Clinchport Church Singers. A graveside service will follow at Holston View Cemetery. Merle’s family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers the family encourages donations to Merle’s favorite charity St Jude Research Hospital.

Carter-Trent / Scott County Funeral Home is serving the Pierson family.