NEWPORT, R.I. – Jean Margaret Peirce, 91, formerly of Portsmouth, R.I., died Jan. 24, 2011, at Village House Nursing Home, Newport, R.I. She was born Jan. 22, 1920, in Bangor, the daughter of Charles A. Peirce Sr. and Florence (Haynes) Peirce.
She was a graduate of Bangor High School and the University of Maine, Class of 1941. Jean later went on to receive her Master of Science degree from the University of New Hampshire. At her retirement, Jean had worked as dietician and director of food service for 23 years at St. George’s School, Newport, R.I. Before that, she worked as dietitian at Northfield School, Northfield, Mass., now known as Northfield Mount Hermon. Prior to that, Jean worked for the state of Maine in various capacities of food service. Jean enjoyed traveling with her sister, Charlotte, on cruises through Europe, as well as trips around New England, stopping many times to visit their brother, Charles, in Maine. Her main passion, however, was art, pursuing many classes in oil and watercolor painting. Jean had several of her works exhibited in galleries throughout Newport, R.I. She was also a voracious reader, as well as an avid bridge and croquet player. Jean had a very low key and pleasing demeanor with a wonderful dry sense of humor, inspiring her staff to culinary greatness. She was loved by all those who knew her and will be sadly missed.
Jean was the last of three siblings, having been predeceased by her sister, Charlotte, in 2008; and her brother, Charles, in 2009. She is survived by her nephew, Charles A. Peirce III of Bangor; her niece, Catherine A. Hopper and her great-nephew, Christopher C. Hopper, both of Orono; a special cousin, Lynne Hanhilammi of Columbus, Ohio; many other cousins and friends. Jean’s family thanks the staff at Village House Nursing Home for the special care given to her during the past five-and-a-half years.
A graveside service will take place in the spring at Mount Hope Cemetery, Bangor. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of choice.