Sarah (Sally) Holgate Pierce passed away peacefully on June 15, 2026, at the age of 91. Born on October 14, 1934, in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, Sally was an adored daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She spent her life nurturing her family and creating a warm and loving home.
Sally built a family filled with love and laughter with her beloved husband, Neale Orion Pierce, Jr., who predeceased her in 2000. She is survived by her daughters: Lori Pierce Lewis, Linda Ferguson, and Karen Shea; her sons-in-law: Christopher Lewis and Daniel Shea; her cherished grandchildren: Spencer Ferguson Hardy (and husband Donald), Morgan Ferguson, Alanna Shea Ricci (and husband Ryan), Kyla Shea, Niall Shea, and Boone Lewis; and her great-grandsons: Oliver and Donnie Hardy. Sally is also survived by her siblings: Carol Tolpa, Thomas Holgate (and wife BJ), and Herbert Holgate, Jr. She was predeceased by her parents: Herbert Holgate, Sr. and Eva Lomas Holgate Bullen; her sister Beverley Crompton; and her son-in-law Ronald Ferguson.
In her younger years, Sally loved traveling, camping, and going to the beach. She always enjoyed knitting and sewing, often creating cherished items for those she loved. She also enjoyed cooking and baking, with her famous carrot cake being a family favorite.
Sally graduated from Pawtucket West (Shea) High School in 1952, was a faithful member of St. Luke’s Church in Pawtucket, and worked as a school lunch cook in schools throughout Rhode Island.
A wake for Sally will be held on Monday, June 29, 2026, from 4:00-7:00pm at Connors Memorial Funeral Home, 55 West Main Road, Portsmouth, RI. A memorial service will be held on June 30, 2026, at 11:00am at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 399 Hope Street, Bristol, RI.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 399 Hope Street, Bristol, RI.
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