Sonoma

Avril Dundas Pierce, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on February 7, 2025, at the age of 90. Avril’s vibrant spirit, creative passion, and love for life will forever be remembered by those who knew her.

Born on April 28, 1934, in Glasgow, Scotland, Avril was the daughter of William and Violet Robertson. She grew up in Dublin, Ireland, alongside her sister Shelna and brothers Ranald and Garth, with whom she shared a close bond. From a young age, Avril became known as the little girl with big hats, a whimsical trait that she carried with her throughout her life.

Avril began her career in London as a print and runway fashion model, where her poise and beauty shone on every platform. Throughout her life, she always dressed her finest for the day, embodying elegance in everything she did.

In November 1963, Avril moved to the United States with her 9-month-old daughter, Jacqueline, and her dog, Pepi. She quickly embraced her new life and worked as a house fashion model at Saks Fifth Avenue in San Francisco. It was there she met Jack Pierce, whom she married in 1966. Their family grew with the birth of their son, Gavin, on November 14, 1967.

Avril had a deep love for tennis, both playing and watching the sport. She generously gave her time to the Paul Daly Tennis Club, where she volunteered with children, organized tournaments, and designed tennis skirts and dresses.

Her love for design extended beyond tennis, and she began painting straw hats and gardening gloves for Parsley’s Hat Store in Tiburon, where she worked part-time for 24 years. Avril’s artistic talents were limitless, and she was known for painting anything and everything that caught her eye. As her husband Jack fondly said, “If it didn’t move, she would paint it.”

A passionate gardener and world traveler, Avril and Jack traveled internationally as hosts on dozens of cruise ships. Her love for animals and nature was as profound as her zest for life.

Avril is survived by her daughter Jacqueline; her son Gavin and daughter-in law Carrie; her beloved grandchildren, Tucker, Samuel, and Cooper, who affectionately called her “Dandy”; her brothers Ranald and Garth; and her niece Katherine and family.

Lady Avril was a "light to everyone's day" and her memory will live on in the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to know and love her.