Jayne Elizabeth Pierce

Jayne Elizabeth Pierce, age 89, passed away gracefully and peacefully on April 10, 2026, in Wichita, Kansas. Born on January 7, 1937, in London, England, Jayne lived a life defined by love, creativity, service, and deep devotion to her family.

Jayne was the cherished daughter of Connie and Cyril J. Baker. Growing up in London, she developed a lifelong appreciation for the arts, that would shape her life well into her later years.

In 1956, fate intervened in the most charming way. While working as a travel agent in London, Jayne reluctantly agreed to accompany a friend on a date with two American soldiers on leave. One of those soldiers was Gary L. Pierce. What began as “blind luck” became a love story spanning nearly seven decades. Jayne left England to join Gary in the United States, and the two were married on April 6, 1957, in Wichita, Kansas. Together, they made Wichita their home and shared 69 devoted years of marriage filled with adventure, laughter, and unwavering partnership.

Jayne gave her time and talents generously. She worked at Wineteer Elementary School in Derby, Kansas, and many years at the Wichita Art Museum, blending her love for people with her appreciation for the arts. She was an active and devoted member of St. James Episcopal Church in Wichita, where her faith and warmth were deeply felt by her church family.

Life for Jayne was meant to be lived fully and joyfully. She loved tap dancing from childhood ballet and tap lessons through her 80s as a proud member of The Tap Connection, a group that performed for area nursing homes as a gift of community service. She was also an avid sailor and competitive racer, sharing a lifelong membership at the Walnut Valley Sailing Club with Gary. In addition, Jayne enjoyed tennis, Tai Chi, yoga, and spent many peaceful hours gardening—always moving, always growing.

Above all else, Jayne treasured her family. She is survived by her beloved husband, Gary Pierce; daughters Darcy Allison (Greg) of Granite Falls, Washington, and DeAun Warfield (Steve) of Wichita, Kansas; son David Pierce (Nicki) of Golden, Colorado; ten grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren, all of whom lovingly knew her as “Nana.” Her gentle guidance, joyful spirit, and steadfast love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made in Jayne’s honor to the following organizations, which reflect her passions and values:

* Chordoma Foundation, PO Box 2127, Durham, NC 27702-2127

* Wichita Art Museum, 1400 Museum Blvd., Wichita, KS 67203

* St. James Episcopal Church, 3750 E. Douglas Ave., Wichita, KS 67208

Jayne Elizabeth Pierce leaves behind a legacy of kindness, creativity, grace, and love. She danced through life with determination and joy, and her memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Services for Jayne will be held at 2:00PM on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at St. James Episcopal Church, 3750 E. Douglas, Wichita, KS 67208.