Iris Mae Pierce's Obituary
Iris Mae “Meemaw” Pierce, age 93, passed away Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at the Poppen Residence of Harbor Hospice. Iris was born December 28, 1931, in Grand Rapids, MI, to Floyd and Millie (McClain) Gillhespy. She attended Ravenna Schools. On September 18, 1948, she married Willard “Ward” Pierce in Muskegon, and he preceded her in death, at age 78, after 56 years of marriage. Iris worked as a shipping clerk for American Coil Springs for 41 years and retired in 1993. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother to her family. Iris enjoyed longtime friendships from her time at American Coil Springs. She worked hard all her life. She enjoyed doing puzzles and word searches daily, as well as playing cards and Rummikub with family and friends. Iris was so very proud of all of her grandchildren, including her grandson, Ben, and great-grandson, Dylan, who both currently serve in the military. She attended most of her grandchildren's sporting events and choir concerts. She loved listening to old country music and attended several CMA Festivals, in Nashville, with her girlfriends. You could always find Iris watching Hallmark movies in her Hallmark attire. Iris and Ward enjoyed 11 years at Salmon Run, on Muskegon River. And during their retirement years, they wintered in Gulf Shores, AL, for 8 seasons. After Ward’s passing, Iris became active in the Widows Together Support Group. She also loved the past 3 years at The Village of the Oaks, where she made lasting friendships with the residents and played Bingo at least twice a week. Survivors include 2 daughters, Carol Ross, Marsha Kozlowski; 3 grandchildren, Nikki (Dan Langlois) McRoberts, Kelly (Scott) Greiner, Benjamin (Eva) Kozlowski; 3 great-grandchildren, Dylan McRoberts, Owen Greiner, and Gavin Greiner. She was preceded in death by her loving husband Willard Pierce; 2 sons-in-law, Ron Ross, Tim Kozlowski; her parents; 1 brother, Bobby Gillhespy; and 4 sisters, Betty Briggs, Marilyn Boca, Peggy Eaton, Sherry Bradley; and many close friends. A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, September 26, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, at Village of the Oaks, 1740 Village Dr., Muskegon, MI, 49442. Contributions in memory of Iris Pierce may be made to Poppen Residence of Harbor Hospice. Arrangements are being handled by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Sign the online guestbook at https://www.sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Iris?
What’s a lesson you learned from Iris?
Share a story where Iris' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Iris you’ll never forget.
How did Iris make you smile?