Marie Davis Pierre

Marie Davis Pierre was born on March 12, 1918, in Pointe Michel, Saint Luke Parish, Dominica. She demonstrated academic excellence from a young age, winning the Roseau Town Council Scholarship at age 12, which allowed her to attend the prestigious Convent High School. After completing her education in 1937, she established the St. David School, a kindergarten in her community, before embarking on a notable career in the Civil Service.

Marie Davis Pierre, Career in Public Service

Marie Davis Pierre began her career in Dominica’s Civil Service in 1944, rising to become Deputy Registrar by 1965. She re-organized the Law Library and Trade Mark Section during her tenure, making these resources more accessible. Her dedication to public service led to her appointment in 1967 as the first female Clerk of the House of Assembly. In this role, she was pivotal in organizing the historic parliamentary meeting at Windsor Park, where Dominica declared independence in 1978. Additionally, she authored Parliamentary Practice and Working Methods of the Dominica House of Assembly, published in 1975.

Speaker of the House of Assembly

In August 1980, under the leadership of Prime Minister Eugenia Charles and the Dominica Freedom Party, Marie Davis Pierre was appointed Speaker of the House of Assembly, making her the first woman in Dominica to hold this position. She served as Speaker until December 1988, overseeing legislative matters somewhat and contributing to developing Dominica’s parliamentary procedures.

Personal Life and Contributions

Marie Davis Pierre married Cuthbert Pierre, and together they had five children. A devout Catholic, she served as a catechist for 56 years and was a longstanding member of the Cathedral Choir. Her love for music was widely known, and she was remembered for her musical performances and contributions to church life.

Death and Legacy

Marie Davis Pierre passed away on May 24, 2014, at 96. In honour of her contributions to Dominica, the government declared June 4, 2014, a day of national mourning, during which the national flag was flown at half-staff. Her funeral was held at St. Gerard’s Hall Chapel, and she was laid to rest in the Roman Catholic Cemetery in Roseau. Her legacy as Dominica’s first female Speaker of the House and a devoted public servant remains a significant part of the island’s history.