Kathleen J. (Branco) Pierce

Kathleen J. (Branco) Pierce, 61, of New Bedford, died Monday October 31, 2011, after a long illness. She was the widow of Stephen Pierce. Born in Acushnet, she was the daughter of the late Antone and Alice (Pimental) Branco. She lived in New Bedford during her childhood, but much of her adult life was spent in Fairhaven. She was a real estate broker for many years and Vice President of E.K. Realty. She enjoyed fishing, cooking, knitting, and motor cycling with her long-term partner. Survivors include daughters, Kelly Simas of New Bedford, Kristan Miller of Fairhaven, and Karen Hansbury of Tewksbury; long-term partner, Ed Kwiecien; one brother, David Branco; and 6 grandchildren, Ashley, Jacob, Amanda, Quinten, Abigail and Colin. . Services and burial will be Private. Cremation service coordinated by Perry Funeral Home 111 Dartmouth St.