It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Shirley Mae (Robertson) Pace, 90, of
Hendersonville, North Carolina, who went home to be with the Lord on January 21, 2026. She was a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, and a faithful Christian woman
whose quiet testimony and steadfast faith in uenced generations.
Born from the union of Lemuel H. "Carl" Robertson and Viola (Penley) Robertson, Shirley was one of ve children. From the very beginning of her life, it was evident that God's hand was upon her. Though born prematurely and expected by doctors not to survive, the Lord had a speci c plan for her life and graciously blessed her with many years to serve Him faithfully.
Shirley came to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ at a young age under the godly in uence of her father. She often reminisced about his faithfulness and how, even after she was married and living away from home, he would call her after church services to sing hymns to her and tell her about the sermon that had been preached. This godly heritage, passed down from her father, became a de ning in uence in her life and walk with the Lord.
In 1950, Shirley married the love of her life, Donald Ray Pace. Together they shared seventy years of marriage and sought to build a home centered on Christ. They raised four children, Judy, Mike, Linda, and Greg, and together also raised their grandson, Justin Baker. Her steady faith, prayers, and godly example were later used by the Lord to encourage her husband, Don, to attend church, ultimately leading to his salvation in 1963 and later his call into the ministry.
As a minister's wife, Shirley truly loved people. It was her desire to see others come to know Jesus Christ as their Savior. She faithfully carried Gospel tracts and sought opportunities to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with those she encountered. Only in eternity with Christ will it be fully known how many lives were touched by her faithful witness. Her faith is now sight in the presence of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Affectionately known as "Nanny" by those who loved her, Shirley treasured her family. She took great joy in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her gentle spirit, joyful laughter, and faithful prayers will be deeply missed.
Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Rev. Donald Ray Pace; her son, Michael Pace; her parents; and her four siblings. She is survived by her son, Greg Pace; daughters, Judy Retzbach and Linda Martin; grandson, Justin Baker; granddaughter, Shirl Guilmette; numerous other grandchildren and great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and a host of dear family and friends.
Shirley would want others to know that salvation is found only through Jesus Christ. If you are not 100 percent certain that when you die you will go to Heaven, you can be today. Jesus Christ loves you and gave His life to pay the penalty for sin. He was buried and rose again, offering forgiveness and eternal life to all who will trust Him as Savior. To learn more about God's plan of salvation, please visit https://www.thegospel lm.com/#TheFilm.
No services are being held. There will be a direct burial at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in
Hendersonville, North Carolina.
Memorial donations may be made to Faith in God Ministries, PO Box G, East Flat Rock,
North Carolina 28726, or by visiting https://faithingodnc.com/give.