Claudette Pierce

“Once upon a time… isn’t that how all stories begin, especially those written by Grandmothers?”

– Claudette Pierce

Once upon a time, on November 15, 1933, Claudette Arlene Pierce was born to parents Claude and Vera (Davis) Woolley in the small town of Avard, Oklahoma. Separated from her mother at a young age and raised by her father and his family, her adventurous rural upbringing made her tough. She shared stories of riding her mare “Pet” bareback to school and preparing dinner for farm hands as a little girl.

Claudette married Karol Pierce in Waynoka, OK on May 22, 1951. They moved to Washington D.C., and later Virginia, where he worked for the federal government. Claudette made Karol’s large family her own; throughout their lives, they enjoyed many visits to Oklahoma to connect with loved ones.

Karol and Claudette had three beautiful daughters and eventually settled in central Ohio. They bought and restored their beloved Baltimore property “Pierces Achers” in 1976—in a story, Claudette wrote she had “never been happier.” She made fond memories there with her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, beloved dogs and other pets. Claudette loved hosting hayrides, cookouts, and holiday gatherings at “the farm” – where, she wrote, “every corner is filled with love!”

Vibrant and energetic, Claudette enjoyed hobbies like riding horses, tending her garden, canning vegetables, cooking, and sewing. A special passion of hers was writing—she wrote poems and stories for her grandkids, whom she called “the joy of my life.” She started to pen the story of her own life shortly before her passing. Claudette worked for DCSC, where she made lasting friends before retirement. In later years, she was an active member of Faith Lutheran Church.

Claudette departed from family and friends at her home on September 3, 2018. She is remembered by loved ones for her constant smile, resilience, positivity, unrivaled hospitality, and radiant, ageless beauty.

Claudette was preceded in death by her parents Claude and Stella “Dolly,” husband Karol, and daughter Peggy. She lives fondly in the memories of her daughters, Cindy Pierce and Lisa (James) Pierce-Burger; son-in-law David Johnson; grandchildren Justin, Summer, Amber, Ashley, Anthony, and Nicholas; great-grandchildren Pierce and Autumn; extended family and many friends.

Caring Cremation® has taken place by the JOHNSON-SMITH FUNERAL HOME, BALTIMORE, OHIO. At her request, a service is not planned at this time.

In lieu of flowers, Claudette asks that you spend a day with loved ones, rescue an animal, or show kindness to a stranger. “If there are no dogs in heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” — Will Rogers

To send an online condolence, and sign the guest book, please visit www.funeralhome.com.