Gilroy

Jacqueline Pierce passed away on May 30, 2025 at the age of 97.

A small celebration of life will be held at Merrill Gardens event room, 7600 Isabella way, Gilroy, Ca 95020 on Saturday, June 28, 2025 @ 1pm-3pm.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years Walter Pierce. She is survived by all of her children; David Pierce, Tami Burney, and Jim Pierce. She is also survived by three grandchildren; Brent Pierce, Nicole Black, and Tabitha Pierce, and four great grandchildren; Ben Pierce, Madelyn Pierce, Grayson Black, and Tristyn Black.

Jacqueline grew up in oil country, Taft California. After graduating in 1946 from Taft High, she went to work for the local library and then went on to college to become a model. Rather than model for a living she went to work for the F.B.I. in Los Angeles where she worked for approximately two years. She then got a call from her cousin Bobbe in San Jose, Ca that there was a secretary position available at the Union School district. Anxious to leave Los Angeles she went to the interview and got the position. She then moved to Los Gatos where she met Walt whom she would soon marry and start a family and to become a stay-at-home mom. They then would buy their home in the Santa Cruz Mountains and later own and operate with partners El Gato Building Materials in Los Gatos, retiring in 1992. They both resided for 53 years at their mountain home until their move to Merrill Gardens assisted living in Gilroy, CA in 2012. After Walt's passing, she lived independently for 12 years at Merrill Gardens where she enjoyed socializing with her friends, playing Bingo, and going on scenic bus adventures.

She would later move in with her son Dave and daughter-in-law Yvette in Hollister, CA. in April of 2025.

She had frequent contact with her other two children who live outside of California. She was blessed to have all of her children around her the week of her passing.

She loved being with her family and friends most of all and she will be greatly missed by all.