Mary L. Pace

Richmond resident, Mary L. Pace, 72, died Thursday, December 29, 2022, at her residence. Mary was born on July 14, 1950, to Charles and Effie Bell Gross in Richmond, Indiana. She graduated from College Corner High School in 1969. That following September 19, she married the love of her life, David R. “Jake” Pace at the Nazarene Church in College Corner. Mary decided to further her education becoming a medical assistant, a Licensed Practical Nurse and later a Registered Nurse. Mary was employed at the Golden Rule Nursing Home, where she took great pride in caring for her elderly residents. In January 2021 she retired after many years of dedicated service. In the past, Mary enjoyed riding Harley’s with Jake as well as studying martial arts and had earned her black belt in Shotokan Karate. The biggest enjoyment in life for Mary, came from her grandchildren. She spent countless hours with them, watching their sporting events, even moving to Tennessee for three months to watch her oldest granddaughter play ball. She adored her canine companions and will be deeply missed by all of her family and friends. Mary is survived by her daughter: Kim Schneider and her husband Nathan of Fountain City; sisters: Lena Mae Bertsch, Phillip (Marilyn) Gross, Donald (Cathy) Gross, Ruth Ann (Dave) VanWinkle, and her twin Penny (Jeff) Blackmore; grandchildren: Katie, Becca, and Zane; numerous extended family members including nieces, nephews, friends and her canine companions. In addition to her parents, Mary is preceded in death by Jake her husband of fifty-three years, whom passed on September 23, 2021; brothers: Charles, Jerry, Gene, and Jimmy Gross; as well as her sister: Mable Bailey. A funeral service will be conducted at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, January 5, 2023, at Showalter Blackwell Long, Fosdick Chapel, Liberty with Jim Frazee officiating. Friends may visit the funeral home from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at College Corner Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Mary’s honor to the National Cancer Society. For more information, or to leave memories and condolences, please visit www.ShowalterBlackwellLong.com