Virginia Fern Pierce

Virginia Fern "Ginny" Pierce-beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend, and proud Bethel Island neighbor-set sail on her final voyage on July 6, 2025, at the age of 94, after facing Alzheimer's disease with grace, grit, and that trademark twinkle in her eye.

Born June 26, 1931, in Modesto, California, to Frederick James Smith and Fern Leota Fuller, Ginny's early life took her from Los Angeles to Stockton alongside her four siblings-Arlene, Frederick, Kenneth, and Edwin. Bright beyond her years, she skipped seventh grade at her teachers' urging and graduated from Stockton High School in 1948. That same year, on New Year's Eve, she married the love of her life, Walter "Walt" Jerome Pierce, in Reno, Nevada, beginning an adventure that would span nearly five decades.

In 1960, Ginny and Walt launched Walt Pierce Marine Service, Inc., which they ran together for 38 years-Ginny at the helm of the business, Walt in the engine room. She also served as office administrator for the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory Fire Department in the early '60s and poured her energy into the Bethel Island Chamber of Commerce. The couple loved nothing more than weekends on the Delta-cruising in their houseboats and yachts, discovering quiet coves, and sharing laughter with friends.

Ginny had a gift for making people feel special, and her happiest hours were spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren-cheering at games, attending school events, or simply swapping stories over a good meal. She loved traveling with her daughter, curling up with a great book, tackling a challenging puzzle, and soaking in the beauty and stillness of Delta life. In retirement, she found community and purpose as an active member (and longtime membership chair) of the San Joaquin Yacht Club. In later years, she became a passionate Golden State Warriors fan-often offering her own "coaching tips" from the living room.

Ginny was preceded in death by her dear Walt and her four siblings. She leaves behind three children-Walter J. Pierce III, Beverly L. Lathrope (Daniel), and Grant A. Pierce (Michelle)-five cherished grandchildren, six adored great-grandchildren, and a lifetime of fond memories.

Those who knew Ginny will remember her sharp wit, unwavering will, and the way she lived life like a well-planned cruise-full of warmth, purpose, and just the right amount of sparkle.