It is with profound sadness that we the family of Pierce Kells Sampson announce his passing on May 19, 2020. Pierce passed away peacefully at home with family by his side knowing his life was rich and full. Pierce received an outpouring of love and support from family and friends over the last few months of his life.
Pierce was born on July 7, 1934 to parents Claire (McGuire) Sampson and Arthur P. Sampson. At an early age, Pierce discovered a love for music when he learned how to play the piano and organ. Music became a life-long passion for Pierce which he loving shared with the faith community for 62 years. He played the organ at St. Anthony Daniel Parish, Holy Redeemer Parish and St. Theresa’s Parish where he was Senior Choir Director and organist. He was awarded the prestigious Apostolic Blessing from Pope Benedict XVI in 2009.
Pierce’s love of serving others transcended into his career path. As a graduate of Dalhousie University from the Bachelor of Business Administration program, Pierce began working for the City of Sydney in 1957 as an accountant, then as Secretary-Treasurer. In 1991, Pierce was appointed as City Clerk of the City of Sydney, a position he held until he retired in 1995 after 38 years of service. He received an Honorary Citizen award from the City of Sydney in 1995.
During his retirement, Pierce devoted his life to his family, travelling the world with Peggy, woodworking, candle-making and fudge-making. Pierce adored his 4 grandchildren and made great memories with them at their cottage in Northside East Bay and Halifax. “Ad” as his grandchildren affectionately referred to him, filled their lives with music, laughter and comfort as he taught them life lessons about love and family. Pierce was pre-deceased by his parents, brother John and brother Bill (Ada Price). Pierce had a special bond with his brother Bill. Bill was his friend, mentor and protector throughout his life.
Pierce is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 56 years Peggy and daughters, Michelle, Anne (Curtis Roach), Elaine (Todd MacFadyen) and 4 beloved grandchildren, Nicholas, William, Emily and Elle. Pierce is also survived by sisters-in-law, Mary MacMillan and Grace White and pre-deceased by brother- in-law Ernie MacMillan and sister-in-law Joanie MacMillan. He is predeceased by his niece Kathleen Sampson. Pierce is also survived by his nieces Sandra MacDonald and Jeanie McCharles and nephews Robert Sampson and Michael Sampson.
Pierce impacted the lives of everyone that knew him in a personal and unique manner. He was a man of great faith. He was kind, generous, selfless and had a great wit. He loved his family beyond measure. We will miss his warm smile and dry sense of humour. We are grateful to have shared an incredible life journey with him and will always cherish our memories.
Donations can be made to the Hospice Palliative Care Society of Cape Breton: https://hospicecapebreton.org/circle-of-care/. Internment will take place at Resurrection Cemetery.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18