MELBA PIERCE (née CALNAN)

January 12, 1929 – November 10, 2024

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Melba Pierce (née Calnan) at the age of 95.

A beloved wife to Norman Pierce for 64 years.

A devoted and loving mother to John, Mark (Irene), Jennifer and Amy. A very proud grandmother to John, Marshall (Tanya), Jeremy (Courtney), Tessa (David), Michael and Jodi (Logan). Daughter to Graydon Calnan and Edith Christy. Caring sister to Donna (Leland) and Winona (Herb). Loved by her many nieces and nephews and their families.

Melba lived her entire life in a close knit farming community in West Bloomfield. At the age of 19 she attended Teacher’s College in Peterborough and taught in several one room school houses in PEC. After marrying Norman and starting a family, she focused her time on raising her children, helping on the farm, teaching part-time, and opening one of the first bed-and-breakfasts in PEC. Many of her guests returned year after year and became good friends. Melba was our family’s rock. She led by quiet example and taught us to be independent, compassionate, open-minded and forgiving. You could always depend on her to open her home to anyone who needed love and support. It was a home where people felt comfortable enough to nap during their visit and one that hosted many celebrations and holiday meals.

Melba enjoyed the simple things in life and encouraged those around her to do the same. Bird watching, leaves falling, freshly cut lawns, puzzles, good books, and baked cookies.

She loved visiting on the phone with Donna, Sue, Melanie, Marilyn, Winona, Betty, Honey, Marion and Wanda

We will continue the tradition of Friday night chips and dip to honour John, Norman, Michael and now, Melba.

The family wishes to thank Ali, NP, nurses at Bayshore, and the doctors and nurses from PEC Memorial Hospital and KGH for their exceptional care.

Also, many thanks to Naomi, Katie and Debbie for your kindness and support; Melba so looked forward to your friendly visits.

If desired, donations can be made in Melba’s honour to Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Back the Build (pecmhf.ca) or Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory (peptbo.ca).

Please join us in celebrating Melba’s life at her home on Saturday, November 23, 2024 between 2 and 5 p.m.

A private graveside service will take place earlier.

“Let your life speak”