Deborah A. “Debby” Pierce

Age 76, passed away October 2, 2019, in Lansing, MI.  She was born December 25, 1942, in Lansing, MI, to the late E. Lane and Virginia (Leffel) Jessop.

Debby was a lifelong resident of Lansing, graduating from Lansing Schools and later attending MSU.  She and her husband, Max, co-owned the Lane Jessop Insurance Agency since 1978.  She was a lifelong member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, where she was involved in many guilds, and served twice as Senior Warden.  Her pride in St. Paul’s was obvious as she coordinated church events and supported youth programs.

Debby was currently President of Lansing Downtown Optimist Club, was a Life Member of Optimist International and had served as its state secretary/treasurer.  She and Max enjoyed many years together at their family cottage on Clifford Lake and enjoying the ever changing seasonal views from their homes on the LCC golf course.

She is survived by Max Pierce, her husband of 53 years; sisters: Cynthia Robinson and Rebecca Budden; her nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family; and her beloved Yorkie, Darby.

There will be memorial service held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 19, 2019, with visitation at 10:00 a.m., at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 218 W. Ottawa St., Lansing, MI 48933. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.

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15 Messages to “Deborah A. “Debby” Pierce

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Beth Visser
October 7, 2019 at 11:48 pm

Hi Max. Just a note to let you know we are sadden to hear about Deb. We talk often about you both around the lake and the many memories you brought to our lives. Prayers and hugs to comfort you. Love Beth & Tim

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Mark and Jayne Gietzen
October 8, 2019 at 7:42 pm

Max,
We are so sorry for your loss. Debby was a wonderful friend and neighbor. She will be missed.
Sincerely,
Mark and Jayne Gietzen

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Barbara Bellinger-Heany
October 9, 2019 at 2:27 pm

There is a special seat at God’s table for this special lady who did so much for St Paul’s congregation. God bless you and give you strength Max. May that peace thar surpasses all understanding be with you now and always.

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Gordon and Linda Weller
October 9, 2019 at 4:14 pm

Dearest Max and Family,
Our entire family is saddened by the news of Deb’s passing. There was and never will be a more hardworking, kind, and thoughtful person. In all the years we were at St. Paul’s, we loved and depended on her and her dedication to “rolling up her sleeves and getting the job done”. You welcomed us into your family and we shared many holidays together. Deb’s generosity was never-ending and I know she is organizing God’s kitchen, as we celebrate her life.

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Caryn
October 9, 2019 at 6:29 pm

That is a beautiful image…I will love to see that someday.

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Millie & Bill Ericson
October 9, 2019 at 4:16 pm

Max – Bill, Sandy and I send our love to you and Darby. Debbie (and you) were one of our favorite folks in Lansing. We have such fond memories of visiting in your home and loving on Darby. I can only imagine how deeply you both will miss Debbie’s dear presence. You our in our hearts and prayers as you travel this road.

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Richard and Connie Bloom
October 9, 2019 at 5:56 pm

Max – We are so saddened to hear about Deb. We enjoyed our many trips to Lansing and the Lake so much. They were always so full of fun, laughter, and even some business. We will be there at St. Paul’s on the 19th.
We want to say our good-bye and honor Deb at the place she loved so much.

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Deb McMartin-Finkel
October 9, 2019 at 8:07 pm

God’s strength and peace be yours, Max and family, as you navigate life here on Earth without Debby. She was quite a woman and will be greatly missed.

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Pam and John Irwin
October 9, 2019 at 9:30 pm

Every congregation should have a Debby and Max. You both have given over and over to St. Paul’s. If it needed to be done Debby (and Max) were there. She will be missed. She is in a better place. Hugs to you Max. We care. Pam and John

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John and Pam Irwin
October 9, 2019 at 9:43 pm

Knowing Debby and Max and working with them both has been a true pleasure for both John and I. She (and Max) have always given above and beyond to St. Paul’s. John and I have considered it a special blessing to be members of St. Paul’s with them. She will be sorely missed not just by us but by many. Hugs to you Max and all of Debbys family.

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Ree and Jim Huber
October 10, 2019 at 11:51 am

Max and Debby–Always lovingly together, always in our hearts, always in our prayers, always working together at Lane Jessop with dear little Darby, and always working together for St. Paul’s. Even in my phone contacts, you are “Max and Debby.”
Your lives were a testament to the words in Colossians 3:12. “As those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” Yes, you were both chosen by God and your hearts gave all of us years of love and friendship. Thank you for many years of love and friendship. You lives have been a blessing to us.

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Sue Birtles
November 21, 2019 at 5:36 pm

Max
I just now heard about Debbie’s passing. I’m so sorry for your loss. I have known the two of you since the 1970’s.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sue Birtles

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Randy Budden
February 7, 2020 at 4:40 pm

My thoughts and prayers go out the family

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Cindy
December 25, 2021 at 10:06 am

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AND MERRY CHRISTMAS TO MY SISTER. REMBERING ALL THE GOOD TIMES WE SHARED.

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Robinson C
December 25, 2021 at 10:15 am

HAPPY BIRTHDAY and MERRY CHRISTMAS
TO MY SISTER ON THIS SPECIAL DAY.
REMEMBORING ALL THE TIMES WE SHARED OVER THE YEARS.

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