Obituary: Jonathan S. Peirce
Jonathan Peirce, 86, of Scarborough, Dies After Long Battle With Dementia
Scarborough, Maine – Jonathan S. Peirce, a lifelong resident of Scarborough Beach, died on September 17, 2026, at the age of 86. He had spent many years battling dementia, a condition that ultimately led to his passing.
Peirce was born in Massachusetts and grew up in Lexington and Scarborough Beach. He earned his high‑school diploma from Lexington High School, followed by studies at Dean Junior College and Suffolk University. In 1967 he married Deborah Norris, who hailed from Cambridge, Massachusetts, and New Ipswich, New Hampshire. The couple initially settled in Wayland, Massachusetts, where they raised two sons before relocating to Scarborough in 1976. The family made their home on the beach for the remainder of their lives.
For 22 years, Jonathan was a successful dealer of fine office furniture in Maine, a venture that earned him a reputation as a trusted businessman in the region. After retiring, he turned to the performing arts, acting in and lending his voice to television and radio commercials. He was particularly proud of his appearances in advertising for the Amtrak Downeaster, a local train service that helped connect Maine’s communities.
Peirce’s wife of almost 58 years, Deborah, died in 2025, a year before Jonathan’s own passing. He is survived by his two sons—Benjamin, who lives in Oregon, and Nathaniel, who resides on Peaks Island—as well as six grandchildren: Kaitlyn Goss‑Peirce, Rhett Cunningham, Sabine Peirce, Lillian Goss‑Peirce, Magnolia Peirce, and Pauline Peirce. The family also remembers his sisters‑in‑law, Nancy Marsden and Biffie Gallant.
In his final wishes, Jonathan requested that no public funeral be held. He asked his family to note that “numerous friends all of whom were very important to him” were survivors, reflecting the deep network of friends he built throughout his life. A private celebration is planned at Scarborough Beach on a future date, where friends and family can pay their respects in a more intimate setting.
The Peirce family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Scarborough Terrace and Compassus Hospice of Maine for the compassionate care they provided during Jonathan’s final months. They also encourage those wishing to honor his memory to visit the Friends of the Scarborough Library, an organization with which he was actively involved during his years in the community.
Condolences and messages of sympathy may be posted online at the Hobbs Funeral Home website. Remembrances for Jonathan’s love of books and civic service may be made to the Friends of the Scarborough Library.
Jonathan S. Peirce’s life was marked by a dedication to family, community, and the arts. He leaves behind a legacy of generosity, creativity, and an enduring connection to the people of Scarborough.
