June 25, 1947 – November 20, 2025
Dr. R. Scott Pierce, 78, passed away on November 20, 2025, and unites with his beloved wife and life partner, Roxanne Heide Pierce. Together in eternity.
Born in Glenview, Illinois, to Earl V. Pierce and Jean B. Pierce, the family moved to Kenosha, WI, where Scott grew up with his brothers, Ron Pierce (deceased 2024) and Dave Pierce (Florida). As a young man, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout, a distinction that reflected his early commitment to leadership and community.
Scott dedicated his life to education. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Carthage College (1971), a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater (1989), and a Doctorate in Education from Carthage College (2001). He served as Superintendent of Schools for the School District of Jefferson (1997-2003), Superintendent of Kenosha Unified District (2003-2007), and as District Administrator for the Westosha Central High School District (2008-2018). For many years, he was a member and chair of the Gateway Technical College Board of Trustees. His steady leadership and vision helped strengthen technical education across the region.
After his retirement in 2018, Scott continued to embrace his lifelong love of music and education. He continued to educate and inspire future educators as an adjunct professor at Cardinal Stritch University, Carthage College, and Concordia University. One of his greatest passions was singing with the Milwaukee Symphony Chorus, and he enjoyed performing with them for many years.
Beyond his professional achievements, Scott was an avid athlete. He loved jogging, distance running, swimming, and cycling – pursuits that reflected his love of the outdoors and passion for maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. He also raised several generations of Labrador retrievers who were his running companions and second family.
Scott was preceded in death by his wife, Roxanne; father, Earl; mother, Jean; and brother Ron. He leaves behind his daughter, Heather Heide Pierce Carrick (Mequon, WI); granddaughter, Kyla; and twin grandsons, Finn and Orin; as well as brother, Dave; and nephews and nieces, all of whom brought him immeasurable pride and joy.
Scott’s remarkable legacy – as an educator, leader, musician, athlete, husband, father, and grandfather- will be long remembered. He will be deeply missed by family, friends, colleagues, and all whose lives he touched.
In accordance with Scott’s wishes, there will be no formal service. Those wishing to honor his memory may make donations to the Gateway Technical Foundation.
