Viva Vernell “Sam” Pierson, 89, of St. Joseph, MO passed away November 28, 2023.

She was born on August 8, 1934, to Virgil Van Buren and Martha Elizabeth (Roberts) Hawkins in St. Joseph, MO where she grew up and graduated from Benton High School. 

Sam enjoyed writing, published 7 books and loved spending money on her grandchildren. 

She was preceded in death her husband’s Edwin M. Dwyer and Jack L. Pierson; her parents Virgil and Martha Hawkins; her brothers Billy Hawkins, Cecil Hawkins and Marvin Hawkins; and her sisters Erma Bennett and Donna Searcy.

Sam is survived by her son David Dwyer and wife Jennifer; 2 grandchildren Cody Dwyer and Emma Dwyer; 6 great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. 

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Arrangements by Hixson-Klein Funeral Home, Gower