- Born on: June 25, 1998
- Departed on: January 5, 2026
- Resided in: Cedar Rapids, IA
Justin Ray Pilcher
Justin Ray Pilcher, 27, passed away on January 5, 2026, in Cedar Rapids, leaving behind a family and community who loved him deeply. Born on June 25, 1998, Justin grew into a gentle, empathetic soul whose presence made life brighter for everyone fortunate enough to know him. He lived with heart, curiosity, and an unmistakable style. Justin had a witty sense of humor and was exceptionally intelligent. Justin often caught others by surprise with his depth of knowledge on a wide range of subjects.
A celebration of Justin’s life will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, in the Oaks Room at Lowe Park, 4500 N 10th Street, Marion, Iowa 52302. A short memorial service will take place at 12:30 p.m., followed by a celebration of life open house from 1:30–4:30 p.m. Please come dressed comfortably — Mom and Dad will be in jeans.
He worked in the service industry, where his kindness, humor, and ability to make people feel seen left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Outside of work, Justin found joy in attending music festivals, playing guitar, camping, hanging out with friends, golfing, and gaming. He had a natural warmth that drew people in, and a deep compassion that made him a trusted friend to many. Justin’s imprint on the lives around him is something that will be felt forever.
Justin is survived by his parents, Jessica and Bryan Pilcher of Cedar Rapids; his sisters, Katie Pilcher of Cedar Rapids and Abby Pilcher of Chicago, IL; his grandparents, Diana and Ray Fairchild of Shellsburg, and Linda and John Goad of Evanston, IL.
He is also survived by his aunts and uncles, Ben and Casey Goad; Zak Goad and Melody Rose; Maggie Diaz and Brian Weinberg; Johnny and Amanda Goad; and Fernando Diaz Breceda. Justin is lovingly remembered by his cousins Max, Benji, Felix, and Cora. He also leaves behind his beloved cats, James and Cameron, who brought him comfort and companionship. Justin was loved by friends and acquaintances alike, and his absence leaves an ache that words cannot fully capture.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness in his memory.
A celebration of Justin’s life will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, in the Oaks Room at Lowe Park, 4500 N 10th Street, Marion, Iowa 52302. A short memorial service will take place at 12:30 p.m., followed by a celebration of life open house from 1:30–4:30 p.m. Please come dressed comfortably — Mom and Dad will be in jeans.
He worked in the service industry, where his kindness, humor, and ability to make people feel seen left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Outside of work, Justin found joy in attending music festivals, playing guitar, camping, hanging out with friends, golfing, and gaming. He had a natural warmth that drew people in, and a deep compassion that made him a trusted friend to many. Justin’s imprint on the lives around him is something that will be felt forever.
Justin is survived by his parents, Jessica and Bryan Pilcher of Cedar Rapids; his sisters, Katie Pilcher of Cedar Rapids and Abby Pilcher of Chicago, IL; his grandparents, Diana and Ray Fairchild of Shellsburg, and Linda and John Goad of Evanston, IL.
He is also survived by his aunts and uncles, Ben and Casey Goad; Zak Goad and Melody Rose; Maggie Diaz and Brian Weinberg; Johnny and Amanda Goad; and Fernando Diaz Breceda. Justin is lovingly remembered by his cousins Max, Benji, Felix, and Cora. He also leaves behind his beloved cats, James and Cameron, who brought him comfort and companionship. Justin was loved by friends and acquaintances alike, and his absence leaves an ache that words cannot fully capture.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness in his memory.
