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Martin Pierce Obituary
Marty was born in Hopkinton, RI to the late George A. and Alice Pierce. He was a star athlete at Westerly High School, batting over .400 for his career as shortstop, was point guard for the 1955 RI State championship basketball team and was inducted into the WHS Athletic Hall of Fame in 2006. He married his high school sweetheart, the late Barbara (Meyer) Pierce in 1960.
A graduate of Springfield College, he had a long career as a teacher and guidance counselor at Stonington High School and served for several years as director of the Adult Education night school in Stonington. After his retirement, he spent over 20 years serving the Westerly and Pawcatuck communities through his volunteer work with the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center.
Marty was an avid boater and fisherman, plying the waters off Watch Hill for fish and lobster.
Marty was predeceased by brothers, Harold, George Jr Dellie and Irwin Chappy and by his sisters, Arlene and Alice Jane.
He is survived by three sons: Martin Joe Pierce (Jacque) of Milford OH, Jeffrey Pierce (Jane) of Salem, CT and Michael Pierce (Cheri) of Warwick, RI; 7 grandchildren: Kristina Pierce, Leai Andrews, Robert Pierce, Dani Pierce, Matthew Pierce, Erica Pierce and Rebecca Pierce; and three great-grandchildren: Aven Andrews, Lydia Pierce and Willem Stewart.
All services are private. Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home, 59 Spruce St., Westerly is in charge of the arrangements. For online condolences please visit www.gaffneydolanfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Martin Pierce
Sponsored by Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home - Westerly.
Gary P Donovan
May 24, 2025
Marty was a warm, gracious presence, and always willing to lend a hand or provide consul. He and my Dad, (Howard), were best friends throughout their association as peers teaching at Stonington High School. Years ago he took me out lobstering for the first time. I am also aware of his special contribution to the success of the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center. Thank you for being you, Marty, and sincere condolences to all of the family.
Mimi Spellman Romano
May 22, 2025
Mr Pierce was a Guidance Counselor when I was in High School. He was enthusiastic and encouraging. My condolences to the family on their loss.
Heidi Panciera
May 20, 2025
My deepest sympathy to Mr. Pierces family and friends. Marty has been a dear friend and neighbor for 34 years. He was an awesome guy and we will miss him dearly. Rest in peace my friend.
Jack Eldridge
May 18, 2025
Marty was a couple of years older than me but I watched him play and played against him in JV games. Marty was a competitor and a great guy. I'm saddened to hear of his passing. Condolences and respect to the family.
Jack Eldridge, Munroe Falls, Ohio.
Gordon Smith
May 17, 2025
Marty was one of my early heroes as a guard on the WHS basketball team. And he also helped the younger kids with their games at the Y. Always a gentleman and friendly person we younger kids looked up to. He will be an asset in Heaven. God be with you, Marty.
Beth Donovan Fague
May 16, 2025
My condolences to the family. My father and Marty were colleagues as well as good friends at SHS. He was certainly well respected. RIP
Jon Bayer
May 15, 2025
My Deepest Sympathy to The Family of Marty Pierce. I attended college with him and he was most helpful on the baseball diamond helping me reach my fullest potential. R.I.P. Marty
Kathleen Crowley
May 15, 2025
As a former student during 1970-1972 Marty was not only my guidance counselor but I also worked for him during study hall. He was a big influence in my education and I will always remember him as a kind and gentle person with a smile.
Donna Jean
May 14, 2025
I'm very sorry to hear of Mr Pierce's Passing. My prayers of Comfort for your Family.. Mr Pierce made a difference in my life I wouldn't have graduated for not his help and guidance.. Donna Jean Kenyon class of 1981
Mark Dessaules
May 14, 2025
Mr. Pierce was my well respected guidance counselor during my years at SHS 1978-1980. He was also a very good friend to my late father,Erwin Dessaules. May he rest in peace.
Vic Brown
May 14, 2025
You were a great friend/client. I pray you rest in peace
Janet Higginbotham York
May 14, 2025
So sad to hear of your dad´s passing. He was my guidance advisor but my best memory is him teaching me how to drive! Great guy, always well liked!
Brenda laspee
May 14, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss . Marty was a wonderful man.
Bill Zembruski
May 14, 2025
Marty Pierce is one of those great humans that changed my life. Marty was one of only a few that believed in me. He set me up at college, at 24 years old, that led me to a career of happiness. Thank you so much Marty. Rest In Peace! Bill Zembruski, Homosassa, FL
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Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home - Westerly59 Spruce Street, Westerly, RI 02891
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