In memoriam

Robert W. Piercy (1958–2011)

Robert W. Piercy—musician, liturgist, author, and clinician—recently worked as an editor for Liturgy Training Publications in Chicago, Illinois. Some of his past credits include serving the church as director of music at St. Julie Billiart Parish in Tinley Park, Illinois, and as director of music at Holy Family Parish in Shorewood, Illinois. He also worked for GIA Publications, Inc. as catechetical director. During his tenure with GIA, he created and collaborated on such works as Journey of the Sacred (with Rosemary Bleuher, Denise La Giglia, and Dennis Paul); When Children Gather: 20 Eucharistic Services and 20 Prayer Services (with Vivian Williams); Walking by Faith (with David Haas); Celebrating Our Faith; Give Your Gifts I (with Linda Baltikas); Give Your Gifts II (with Michael Schabert); Table Prayer (with Beth Thompson); and as an editor of GIA’s children’s hymnal, Singing Our Faith. He was a well-known author and lecturer to adults and young children, and a sought-after speaker on rites and rituals of the Catholic church.

This larger-than-life servant of God went peacefully into the kingdom of heaven on March 17, 2011, at 10:24 p.m. surrounded by his loving family and friends. One only needs to witness the outpouring of love and prayers on his Facebook page to know that this accomplished and inspirational man will be sorely missed.

May perpetual light shine upon him and may he rest in peace.