The Breckenridge, Texas community is mourning the untimely death of beloved longtime coach and educator, Bill Pearce.
Bill Pearce passed away on Friday, December 26, 2025, at the age of 80, leaving his family and loved ones devastated.
Born as William Casey Pearce on August 19, 1945, in San Saba, Texas, to late parents, H.E. Casey and Irene Hopkins Pearce, Bill devoted his life to Texas athletics and education for decades.
He touched the lives of numerous young athletes and students as an exceptional coach and educator.
After graduating Summa Cum Laude from Baylor University in 1967, Bill began his career as a teacher and coach.
He started his coaching and teaching journey at Ft. Stockton in 1967 and served his position for nearly a decade as head football coach, leading his team in several victories.
Bill also served as athletic director before retiring from Ft. Stockton in 1974.
Furthermore, Bill Pearce continued his career at Austin High School, where he served as a teacher, coach, and AISA lead Athletic Trainer.
In 1977, Bill and his family moved to Breckenridge, Texas, where he became an assistant coach and athletic trainer.
Over the next 48 years, Bill served BISD in multiple capacities, including being Athletic Director and Head Football Coach from 1981-1984, assistant coach from 1977-1980 and 1985-2001, and high school assistant principal from 1988-1991.
He led the Bucks to two district championships as a head football coach.
From 2001 until his recent demise, Bill served as contract athletic trainer and consultant at Breckenridge High School.
Beyond his sports career, Bill served as a member and Deputy Grand Master of the Masonic Lodge of Texas from 1985-86.
He was also serving as a member of Scottish Rite Bodies from 1984 until his demise and served at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church in multiple positions on the church vestry throughout the years.
Bill was a lifelong member of the THSCA, NATA, and SWATA, serving on the THSCA Board of Directors from 1993-1995, and was named the 2003 THSCA Athletic Trainer of the Year.
Bill Pearce is Survived By His Wife, Son and The Entire Family
In addition to being an amazing coach and educator, Bill Pearce was also a devoted husband to his longtime wife, Lilla ‘Teeny’ Pearce.
The couple first met at Ft Stockton and tied the knot on August 15th, 1969, in San Angelo. Bill and Teeny were happily married for 56 years.
Teeny stood by his side as his constant support through all his good and bad times until his last breath.
They also raised their son, Casey Pearce, to be successful in his career. He followed in his father’s footsteps and serves as the head football coach of Breckenridge High School.
Bill Pearce also leaves behind his daughter-in-law, Monica, his grandson, Gunnar, his sister, Patty Ratliff, and husband Mickey of Lubbock, nieces, Bonnie Shahan and Joli Gray, nephew, Matthew Ratliff, brother, Frank Pearce and wife Cydney of Richland Springs, niece Paige Moats; and brother, Raymond Pearce and wife Teresa of Richland Springs; nephew, Jacody Sealy.
Bill Pearce’s contribution to the Texas community as an exceptional coach and lifelong educator will always be remembered.
Many of his loved ones are sharing his memories on social media and extending their heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time.
Breckenridge ISD wrote:
“Coach Pearce faithfully served our district and community for many years, and his impact on Breckenridge ISD will be long remembered. He was a true example of living the legacy by serving others with dedication, humility, and pride in our Buckaroo tradition. His commitment to our students, staff, and community reflects the very values we strive to uphold each day.The hole Coach Pearce leaves behind is far too big to ever be filled. However, what he leaves us are lessons that only the very best teachers and coaches leave behind. Lessons of how to love and care for one another, how to work harder today than you did yesterday, and how to place service above self with humility. We are truly blessed to call him family, friend, coach and teammate.”
Breckenridge ISD
He was preceded in death by his parents, H.E. Casey Pearce and Irene Hopkins Pearce, and his sister, Marilyn Pearce.
A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, December 30th, at 10 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church in Breckenridge, followed by burial in the Richland Springs Cemetery.
The visitations will be held on Monday, December 29th, at 6 P.M. at Morehart Mortuary in Breckenridge.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Andrew’s Anglican Church and Buckaroo All-Sports Booster Club, honoring Bill’s life.
