Dwayne Clark Piercy

Dwayne Clark Piercy of Topeka, KS, born May 16, 1938 in Overton, TX, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026, surrounded by family. Those who knew Dwayne will remember a life marked by compassion, intellect, dedication, and an enduring love for those around him.

Dwayne met Nita Ray Skaggs at the University of Texas at Austin, and they married on August 26, 1961, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Freeport, TX. This month they would have celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.

Born to Hiram Augustus Piercy, Jr. and Francis Louise Stroud Piercy, both of whom preceded him in death, Dwayne grew up in Overton, TX, where he graduated from Overton High School. From these roots, Dwayne’s passion for knowledge and helping others flourished. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Texas, then went on to receive both his Master’s and PhD degrees in Clinical Psychology from the University of Houston. He was a life-long learner, always furthering his education and seeking new ways to serve others.

Dwayne was raised in a family of exemplary role models. He knew what his responsibilities were and gladly strove to always fulfill them.

Dwayne began his career with Parkland Hospital in Dallas, TX before becoming the Program Director and Chief Psychologist of the MH-MR Center in Lubbock, TX. He then served as a clinical psychologist at the VA for 31 years, dedicating himself to the care of veterans—one of his proudest accomplishments. Within his field, he acquired advanced skills and certifications, serving as a child psychologist, family therapist, health and biofeedback psychologist, addiction counselor, sex counselor, and counselor for PTSD. His work impacted countless lives, offering healing, understanding, and guidance to those in need.

Outside of his professional life, Dwayne found joy in traveling the world, reading, fishing, and hunting. Above all, he enjoyed good food and drink, laughing and sharing with family and friends. Dwayne never met a stranger. Whether in the great outdoors or in the quiet of his home, his zest for life was readily apparent and infectious to those around him.

Whenever lost in his travels with the family, he would say “We’re having an adventure!” His curiosity and sense of community was supported by membership in groups like St. David's Men's Group, the Study Group at Temple Beth Sholom, the Spiritual Study Group through the Shepherd Center, monthly VA retirees’ luncheons, and a movie group.

He is deeply mourned and lovingly remembered by his wife Nita Ray Skaggs Piercy; his son Eric Allen Piercy; his daughter Heather Lynn Piercy and son-in-law Martin Alexander Held, his brother Dennis Michael Piercy and his sister-in-law Jimmie Lee, his brother Brian Carrol Piercy and his sister-in-law Lois Bennon, sisters-in-law Penney Skaggs Reed and Janet Skaggs, and many nieces and nephews.

Dwayne’s legacy endures in the family he nurtured, the friends whose lives he enriched, and the many people he served. His memory will live on in the stories, laughter, and love shared by those he leaves behind.

A Celebration of Life will be held at St. David’s Episcopal Church, 3916 Southwest 17th Street, Topeka, KS 66604, on August 1, 2026 at 10:30 am. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor his life.

Dwayne touched many hearts throughout his earthly journey. He will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. David’s Episcopal Church, The Parkinson’s Foundation, The American Cancer Society, the Alzheimer’s Association, Elara Caring Hospice Care, or the charity of your choice.