DeAnn Nelson Pierpont

DeAnn Nelson Pierpont, age 68, passed away at home on Tuesday, March 14 surrounded by her family, after a courageous battle with Sarcoma cancer. She was born in Knoxville, Tenn. on December 25, 1954, the daughter of Paul Nelson and Sarandrew DeLozier Nelson, and served the Knoxville community for over 40 years as the owner and operator of Chapman Highway Grooming. A passionate animal lover, DeAnn graduated from the Florida School of Grooming in 1974 and established her first grooming salon at just 20 years old. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Equestrian Studies from Salem College and the prestigious Meredith Manor International Equestrian Centre in 1979. DeAnn was a longtime AKC member, breeder, and shower, who competed locally and throughout North America.

She was best known as a breeder and raiser of champion pedigree Miniature Schnauzers, together with her late mentor, Dr. Karl Barth. Through her work as a groomer and breeder, she touched the lives of countless people and their animals. She married the late Ronald Pierpont of Long Island, NY in 1982 and moved to Seymour, where the couple lived and raised their two daughters on their 18-acre farm for 37 years. She is proceeded in death by her parents and brother, James Nelson. DeAnn is survived by her daughters, Laura and Hayley Pierpont. She was a devoted mother and friend whose love and indomitable spirit will be forever missed.

A burial service will be held at Grandview Cemetery in Maryville on March 29 at 1pm followed by a celebration of life at Southern Grace Manor from 4 to 7 p.m.