Melvin Webster Pierce

Raised in Indian Rocks Beach, Webb built his life in Brandon. He shared a cherished, forty-nine-year marriage with his wife, Gail Ann Pierce, who was the cornerstone of his life.

Webb poured his heart into the local arts community, famously serving as the reason the Valrico Players Inc acquired the 1915 historical site that became the James McCabe Theatre. As president, he oversaw every aspect of the nonprofit teaching theater, believing firmly that no task was ever too big or too small. Known for his hands-on dedication and respectful work ethic, he valued every board member and committee person, knowing that every single role was important. Through his vision, steady guidance, and deep love for the theater, the Valrico Players thrived as one of the longest-running community groups in Hillsborough County.

Outside of his community work, Webb was a proud member of the Tampa Bay Rough Riders 1st Cavalry Regiment, wearing member number 20 with pride during parades and Teddy bear runs for children. Through years of dedicated service across many different committees, he earned his place as president in 1999, later being honored with the status of past president following his term. A man of many passions, he was the treasurer for Historical Miniature Gaming of the South (HMGS-South), loved sharing his vast knowledge of history and military tactics, with his beloved gaming friends at the convention and local gaming groups. He played bass guitar as a proud member of the musicians' union in his youth playing at various locations across the Tampa Bay area including his last jam in Ybor Square his Rough Rider presidential year. He was a devout Catholic, a former Eucharistic minister, and a member of the Knights of Columbus.

He is survived by his wife, Gail Ann Pierce; his cousin whom he raised and loved as a daughter, Ginger Eisenhauer; her children—who affectionately called him Opa—Angelina Masker and Del Masker, Jr.; and lifelong family friend Jena McCabe.

Webb was universally admired; his sharp wit, memorable one-liners, and mentorship, marked by kindness and leadership, left an indelible mark, and he will be profoundly missed.