Barbara Ellen Pierce died on August 21, 2026, in Albany, Oregon. She was born on April 2, 1935, in Durango, Colorado.

Barbara built a working life marked by dedication and steady service. She worked at Montgomery Wards Department Store, then at a local lumberyard and several retail stores, before going on to a successful career as a bookkeeper for Les Schwab Tire Center for many years. She also enjoyed working part time for a local gift shop, Sincerely Yours, in Albany.

Family remained at the center of Barbara’s life. She cherished time with those she loved, and she and her husband Don, often traveled several hours to attend a grandchild’s special event. Even when mobility issues made travel more difficult, she continued to make it a priority to get in the car and go wherever her family was gathering. That commitment remained an important part of her life.

Barbara is survived by her husband, Donald Charles Pierce, of Albany, Oregon; her three daughters, Marla(Bruce) Mckee, of Albany, Tammy(Ken)Alexander, of Albany, Oregon, and Kelly,(Ted) Grosjacques, of Clarksville, Tennessee; nine grandchildren; twenty-three great-grandchildren; She is also survived by her sister, LenNel(Robert)Weber.

Sewing was always at the forefront of Barbara’s interests. She was generous with the things she created, often giving her children or grandchildren something special she had made. She sewed soft fleece hats for patients undergoing chemotherapy, and she also sewed for other organizations as time allowed. Her skill with a needle and thread became one of the meaningful ways she shared with others.

Barbara was also a longtime member of the local service organization Beta Sigma Phi, which she enjoyed immensely. Its motto, “Life, Learning and Friendship,” held lasting meaning in her life.

Barbara Ellen Pierce will be remembered for a life that kept family, work, service, and the simple gifts of time and care close at hand. The family will hold a memorial at a future date.

Arrangements by Aasum-Dufour Funeral Home, Albany, Oregon.