Ama Elaine Pierce, 97, of Jacksonville, IL, passed away Saturday, September 28, 2024, at Jacksonville Skilled Nursing Rehab.

She was born February 15, 1927, to Henry and Dorinda (Roy) McGownd in Russell Springs, KY. She married John William Baker in 1946, had two sons, and they later divorced. She then married Welby Pierce in 1974, and he preceded her in death.

Ama is survived by her three sons, Paul and William Baker, both of Chapin, and Stanley Pierce; daughter, Irene Wilson; many grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Welby; her three sisters; and two nephews.

Mrs. Pierce worked as a nurse's aide for 14 years, working for several different doctors. She was also a dental assistant for 33 years. Ama lived and worked in New Berlin, IL, from 1974 to 1992. She retired and moved back to Jacksonville in 1992. Ama was a devout Baptist, attending the United Baptist Church in New Berlin.

There will be a private family service, with burial at Memorial Lawn Cemetery. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be left online at buchanancody.com.