It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a well-lived life that we announce the passing of Samuel Lee Pace, Sr., a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. Sam departed this world on July 23, 2026, at the age of 85. His final days were spent surrounded by the love and comfort of his devoted family.

Born on November 27, 1940, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Earl and Mary Pace, Sam grew up with a deep-seated sense of family and community. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, his cherished daughter, Mary Ellen Pace Hatch, his best friend and brother, William Earl Pace, Jr., and his dear sister, Mary Jane Pace Strong. Despite these losses, Sam's heart remained open and loving, a testament to his strength and resilience.

Sam shared an extraordinary 64-year marriage with his high school sweetheart, Judy Lynn Busby Pace. They first met as young teenagers and quickly became inseparable, building a life together that was filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to one another. Their union was blessed with a son, Lee (Steffanie) Pace, and daughters, Mary Ellen (Bill) Pace Hatch, and Katie (Ryan) Pace Wassil, who carried forward his legacy of kindness and compassion.

Sam was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Chris and Roy Pace, Sam, Molly, and Ben (Erika) Hatch, Jeremy and Zach Wassil, and great-grandfather to little Teddy Caramillo-Hatch, who brought immense joy to his life. His family was his world, and he cherished every moment spent with them, treasuring the laughter and love they shared.

Educationally, Sam's journey began at Central High School in Memphis, graduating in 1958. He went on to earn a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Tennessee Tech University in 1963 and later earned a Master of Divinity from Memphis Theological Seminary. His career was marked by remarkable achievements, beginning with his work at NASA's Langley Research Center, where he contributed to the design of the Apollo Lunar Module’s landing gear. This pioneering work was a source of great pride for Sam, reflecting his keen intellect and dedication.

In 1967, Sam returned to Tennessee to take the helm of his father's company, Memphis Pattern. He was also a design engineer at International Harvester contributing to the design of revolutionary agricultural equipment and a foundry superintendent at both International Harvester and Continental Foundry. However, it was his calling to pastoral service that truly defined his life's work. As an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church, Sam dedicated himself to his each of his congregations and their communities, offering guidance, support, and unwavering faith. His charismatic and charming nature, combined with his humor and compassion, made him a beloved figure in every community he served.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Sam was a man of many passions. He bred German shepherds, owned horses, and loved water gardening, Sam found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was a familiar face at the YMCA, where he was an active member since childhood, and was known for his love of Chinese buffets and Whataburger—a delight he often shared with friends and family. Upon retirement, Sam and Judy moved to Pensacola, FL. He spent his remaining years attending their youngest grandson’s sporting events. He was a beloved fixture in the stands on Friday nights at Pensacola Catholic football games.

Sam's life will be celebrated on July 30, 2026. Visitation will be at 11 am and his Celebration of Life will be at 12:00 PM at the First United Methodist Church, located at 6 E Wright St, Pensacola, FL 32501. A graveside service will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Mark's United Methodist Church in Pensacola, FL, honoring Sam's lifelong commitment to his faith and community.

Though Sam has left this world, his light continues to shine brightly through the lives of those he touched. His enduring love, strength of character, and unwavering faith will forever be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in peace, dear Sam. You will be deeply missed and forever loved.