Joan Mary Pierce

Joan Pierce, 89, of Gladstone, MO passed away December 13, 2016. She was born on August 16, 1927, along with her twin sister, June, to James and Alice Stack of Salina, KS. Joan married the love of her life, Dean Pierce, on July 31, 1950 and they were the proud parents of 10 children. Dean was her anchor and soul mate and they were together for over 66 years, until Dean recently passed away. Joan was a devoted wife and loving mother. She was known for her patience, kindness and positive spirit. She was a quiet lady but always had encouraging words and no one heard her complain about anything. Joan enjoyed baking desserts, trying out new recipes and being around family and friends. The most important gift Joan and Dean gave their children was their legacy of faith in God. They attended St. Gabriel Catholic Church and she was a member of St. Ann’s Circle of The Altar Society. In recent years, they lived and attended church at Our Lady of Mercy Country Home. Praying for her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren was a part of her daily life. Joan worked for the North Kansas City School District as a custodian at Ravenwood Elementary School. After retiring, she became a volunteer at The Clay County Clothes Closet. Joan was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, Jim Stack; her loving husband, Dean Pierce; and one granddaughter, Tracy Stephens. She is survived by her children, Larry Pierce of Phoenix, AZ, Diana Sloderbeck of Kansas City, Steve Pierce (Kelsee) of Kansas City, Don Pierce of Las Vegas, NV, Elaina Stephens (Keith) of Kansas City, Randy Pierce of Kansas City, Brian Pierce of Kansas City, Martin Pierce of Baltimore, MD, Dan Pierce (Monica) of Kansas City and Sharla Scott (Jim) of Fayetteville, AR; 10 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and her twin sister, June Fisher, of Salina, KS; as well as many nieces and nephews. Joan had a beautiful spirit. Her family loves and adores her. She will be dearly missed and the memories of our mom and dad will be cherished forever. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 pm, Sunday, December 18 at White Chapel Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 1:00 pm, Monday, December 19 at St. Grabriel Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.