Obituary of Kathleen Belle Pierce

Kathleen Belle Pierce, 90, of Hollister, California, passed away on June 1, 2025, with her daughter and granddaughter by her side at Southside Skilled Nursing Facility. Kathleen was born on January 7, 1935, in Visalia, California, to Harold and Dorothy Slankard. In her early teens, her family relocated to Tres Pinos, CA, where she would later meet the love of her life, Vernie Pierce. Together, Kathleen and Vernie raised their two children, Cynthia and Craig, on their family property off Fairview Road in Hollister. Throughout her life, Kathleen was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her home was a welcoming place for neighborhood children, as well as 4-H and FFA participants. She was known for hosting fun, memorable events that showcased her remarkable talents for decorating and cooking. Kathleen had a flair for entertaining and took pride in making every gathering special. She loved to travel with her husband and friends, always maintaining her stylish, well-groomed appearance. In her later years, she was affectionately known as the "Marilyn Monroe" of the nursing facility for her beauty and grace. More than anything, Kathleen will be remembered for the extraordinary love and unwavering support she gave to everyone around her—whether they were family by blood or by heart. Kathleen is survived by her daughter, Cynthia McGrath; step children Pam Coustette and Kurt Nicholson; grandchildren Audra Acquistapace, Craig Pierce Jr., Taylor and Lauren Coustette, and Keahna Nicholson-Delcurto; and her nephew, Ray Mena. She was preceded in death by her husband, Vernie Pierce, and her son, Craig Pierce. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Southside Skilled Nursing Facility, who made Kathleen’s final years some of the most joyful and fulfilling of her life. A private celebration of life will be held at the Pierce family property.