John Pisarkiewicz

John Pisarkiewicz, Jr. Ph.D., 81, of Fairhope, Alabama, passed away peacefully at home on January 25, 2026.

He was a devoted husband, stepfather, brother, uncle, and friend - a man of deep faith who lived with humility, purpose, kindness, and generosity.

Born on June 25, 1944, in Temple, Texas, John was the eldest of six children. He spent his early years in a Polish neighborhood in South St. Louis, attending  Our Lady of Czestochowa School before the family moved to Webster Groves in 1953. He continued his education at Annunciation Catholic School and St. Louis University High School. He attended Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama, and later transferred to Saint Louis University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with an emphasis in Economics and Mathematics. He completed his Ph.D. in Economics at Vanderbilt University in 1973. 

John enjoyed a distinguished career spanning more that five decades as a respected economist, educator, and public servant. Upon graduation from Vanderbilt, he received a Brookings Fellowship and began his professional life with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), where he rose to serve as Acting Director. He later transitioned to economic consulting, holding senior leadership roles at Heiden Associates, Nathan Associates, and NERA. John was well known for being an expert witness on high-profile Antitrust litigation cases. 

Alongside his professional work, John was deeply committed to teaching and mentoring, serving on the faculty at Western Kentucky University and as Adjunct Professor at George Washington University. 

Beyond his professional accomplishments, John was known for his generous spirit and commitment to service. He gave freely of his time through pro bono work, community involvement, and support of numerous charitable organizations. Music was an essential part of his life. He sang with the Path to Peace Choir, the choir of St. James Episcopal Church, and the Eastern Shore Choral Group. John was especially proud to have performed at Carnegie Hall in New York City. A lifelong learner, he delighted in reading and reflection, particularly theology in his later years.

John approached life with joy, curiosity, and a sense of celebration. He marked even the smallest achievements with grandeur and never attended a party he didn't like. His favorite pastimes included cycling, cooking, reading, and spending time with family, friends and his community. He was an active member of the Rotary Club of America and attended car rallies throughout the Virginia countryside. He was a longtime member of The University Club Washington, D.C.  He was known for late lunches at the big table discussing the news of the day and was always in a bow-tie. He knew the best butcher, cobbler, and tailor in town, and they knew him too. He loved an adventure, a good wine list, and any excuse for a road trip to visit family and friends. Through it all, John taught those around him how to celebrate life fully and generously.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Sophia Pisarkiewicz, and his brothers, Gregory and Mark. 

He is is survived by his devoted wife of 31 years, Brenda Rackley Pisarkiewicz. He is also lovingly remembered by his siblings and their spouses, David (Patricia), Steven (Patricia), and Mary Frances (Mazur), sister-in-law, Tamara Pisarkiewicz, as well as stepdaughters and stepson, step grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30am on Monday, February 9, 2026, at St. James Episcopal Church in Fairhope, Alabama. A reception will follow immediately after the service at Green Hall, St. James Episcopal Church. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude's, Tunnel to Towers, or to the charity of your choice.

John will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

ARRANGEMENTS BY
WOLFE-BAYVIEW
FUNERAL HOMES
& CREMATORY, INC.
19698 GREENO ROAD
FAIRHOPE, AL 36532
251-990-7775