Gladys Marie Pierce

Gladys Marie Pierce, age 91, passed away on June 25, 2013 at her residence in Vancouver, WA. Gladys was born Gladys Marie Allen on October 17, 1931 in Omaha, Nebraska. She was the daughter of Charles and Margaret Allen. Gladys grew up in Omaha and graduated high school there. She met her future husband, Gerald Pierce, while they were working at the same company. They were married in September, 1951 and moved to Council Bluffs, Iowa. They welcomed three sons together. As Gerald advanced in his job with Continental Baking Company, the family moved around the country - to Colorado, California, Alaska, Connecticut, and finally to Collinsville, Illinois. When Gerald passed away unexpectedly, Gladys continued to live in Collinsville, becoming very involved with her Christian Church and in community service, including with Meals on Wheels and other non-profit service organizations. Gladys was devoted to her family and loved cooking, baking, gardening, and helping others. She was a kind, caring friend to many and got great joy in giving of her time and talents wherever needed. She was also a loving grandmother and delighted in visits from her sons and their families. Gladys moved to Vancouver, Washington in 2011 to be closer to her son Mark, and his family. After living several years at The Bedford independent living, where she loved baking all kinds of goodies to share with her neighbors, she moved to Prestige Bridgewood Assisted Living where she resided the rest of her life. Here again she enjoyed participating in many of the activities there and had a full and satisfying life for years until her health began to fail. She eventually entered hospice care and passed away peacefully. Gladys lived a humble, but fulfilling life centered around the people she loved and cared about. She gave of herself without expectation of anything in return and was cherished by her family and friends. Gladys is survived by her three sons: Mark Pierce and his wife, Mary of Vancouver, WA; Bill Pierce and his wife, Elizabeth of Austin, Texas; Jim Pierce and his wife, Janel of Grants Pass, Oregon and by 12 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her sisters, Barbara Wooley and Marguerite Coleman, both of Omaha, Nebraska. She had many friends in many places and did her best to stay in touch with them even as she and her family moved about the country. Gladys was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald. There will be no public services for Gladys. The family is planning a private service later. Gladys loved children and was a longtime supporter of St. Jude's Childrens Hospital. If people wish, they may donate to St Jude's in her memory.

Gladys Marie Pierce

October 17, 1931 - June 25, 2023