J. William Pace

J William Pace passed away on September 20, 2020 after a long bout with heart disease. He was born in Stone County, MO on December 3, 1933 to Willian “Roscoe” Pace and Leota Bell Ray Pace, and graduated Reeds Spring High School in 1951. The Pace’s moved into the Stone County area shortly after the end of the Civil War and settled on land to the East of the James River and across from Buttermilk Springs. Although J William moved away from Stone County after joining the U.S. Navy he retired back in this area in 1997.

He served in both the Korean and Vietnam wars.

He was a U.S. Navy retiree, paleontologist, contractor, world traveler, 2-time cancer survivor, genealogist, Master Gardener, potter, pilot, gold miner, hunter, auction-lover, bird watcher, former member of the Stone County Historical Society, member of the Civil Air Patrol, photographer, beer and wine brewer, and much more. He was a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and uncle to a large extended family.

He is best remembered for his humor, story-telling, generosity, and an infectious smile. He was loved by all and will be sorely missed.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Bette Colleen Pace, his parents, and 8 siblings. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Randy and Debbie Pace of Liberty, Missouri, two granddaughters, Jennifer Pace of Kansas City, MO and Sarah Pace Ruhland and her husband Kevin of Wentzville, MO and three great-granddaughters, Sophie, Emma and Isla Ruhland. Additional survivors include step daughter-in-law Kathy VerWeire, step-daughter Denise Thamm and her husband Randy, 4 step grandsons Brandon, Britton, and Cameron Thamm and River VerWeire, 3 great grandchildren, and 3 adopted sons, Rodney, Robin, and Paul Pace.

A memorial service will be held at a later date to be announced.

A memorial service will be held at a later date to be announced.