William Lanier Pearce

William Lanier Pearce, MD

William Lanier Pearce, of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away on April 8th, 2023.

Lanier was born in Bartow, FL on October 18, 1936. He graduated from Bartow High School and attended Emory University, graduating from Emory School of Medicine in 1962. Lanier began medical residency at the University of Florida College of Medicine in Jacksonville followed by his internal medicine residency at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, specializing in cardiology. He served as a physician and Captain in the US Army at Ft. Stewart, Georgia. After his service, Lanier began a private practice in Winter Haven, FL until 1974 when he moved to Jacksonville, starting a private practice and an association with St. Vincent’s Riverside. During his time at St. Vincent’s, he worked his way up to Chief of Staff of Medicine after many years of collaboration. His specialties included cardiovascular disease and Internal Medicine. After retiring from private practice, he practiced at the VA in Jacksonville until his second retirement.

Lanier was an avid University of Florida football fan and frequently traveled to support his favorite team. He and his wife Diane enjoyed traveling the world with frequent trips abroad, particularly to Europe. The love of travel began as a young man when Lanier traveled transatlantic by ship to Europe and continued to beckon him throughout his life. He was an exceptional pianist and created a love of music by all his kids who can play multiple instruments. Lanier enjoyed spending time with friends and family playing golf and has played many professional courses including The Players Sawgrass and Pebble Beach. His greatest love was his wife Diane, a registered nurse, who began their lives together on November 1, 1973.

Lanier was predeceased by his grandson, William Lanier Pearce III. He is survived by his wife, Blanche Diane Pearce; his children, William Lanier Pearce Jr, Melody Anne Pearce-Watts, and Jon Marc Respress; and seven grandchildren.

Arrangements are as follows:

Memorial Service: 10 AM, Saturday April 15 at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Cemetery Chapel, 4801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207

Graveside Service to follow: Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Cemetery, 4801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in W.L. Pearce's name to Haven Hospice.