Rosemary Lynell Pierce

Rosemary Lynell Pierce, 86, of Phoenix, Arizona, was born in Blackwell, Oklahoma on August 10, 1939, and passed away on June 15, 2026.\nRosemary was the seventh daughter in her family, born Rosemary McCulley. Early in life, her resilience was evident when she survived double pneumonia at the age of five. In junior high, she found joy and discipline in music and performance—playing saxophone at times and twirling baton. She graduated in 1957, the same year she served with distinction in Rainbow for Girls and became Grand Worthy Advisor of Rainbow, reflecting a steady devotion to community and a thoughtful sense of responsibility.\nHer working life was marked by drive and loyalty. Rosemary worked at Sperry for a few years and then dedicated nearly three decades to APS, from age 25 to 54. She prepared for her career with a year of training to become a secretary, mastering shorthand and stenography, and typing an astonishing 200 words per minute—skills that spoke to her focus, precision, and quiet competence.\nIn July 1958, Rosemary married Jack (James) Frank Pierce Jr. Together they built a family that remained at the center of her life. She and Jack welcomed one daughter, Debra Lynell Pierce. Rosemary’s legacy continues through her grandson, James R Williams II, and her granddaughters, Rosemary and Megan (Alex). Her devotion was felt in the steady ways she cared, listened, and remained present—gentle in manner, wise in counsel, and loyal in love.\nRosemary’s thoughtful nature also shone through in her personal interests. She enjoyed reading Jack London, Corbett, and James Herriot, and at 28 she began oil painting, embracing creativity with patience and care.\nShe outlived all six of her sisters—Lenore Higgins, Evelyn Smith, Gwendolyn Schellstede, Gwendyne Fisher, Madelyn Miracle, and Marilyn Oard. Through many seasons of life, Rosemary carried herself with a quiet strength, and she will be remembered for her kindness to family, friends, and neighbors, and for the enduring pride she held for her mother and father.\n“I am grateful for everyone that helped my mom and helped me when my husband died two years ago. I thank you to everyone who is her and called to talk.” - Debra Lynell Williams\nA Memorial Service will be held at Phoenix Memorial Park and Mortuary, 200 West Beardsley Road, Phoenix, AZ 85027, on July 11, 2026, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. A Committal Service will follow at Phoenix Memorial Park, 200 West Beardsley Road, Phoenix, AZ 85027, on July 11, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. A Reception will be held at Phoenix Memorial Park and Mortuary, 200 West Beardsley Road, Phoenix, AZ 85027, on July 11, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.\n“Nearer My God to Thee.” “Always be vigilant with your heart, soul, eyes, and ears.” “To remain vigilant.” “Until We Meet Again.”