Gloria S. Pace

1932 - 2025

Gloria S. Pace

October 10, 1932 - July 16, 2025

Gloria Franklin Smith Pace of Richmond, devoted wife, mother, mother-in-law, sister, sister-in-law, grandmother, and great-grandmother, peacefully passed away Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at the age of 92.

Born on October 10, 1932, in Richmond to the late Benjamin and Ellen Smith, Gloria grew up in South Richmond and later made her home in Chesterfield County with her late husband, Douglas Pace, where she lived most of her life.

Gloria is lovingly survived by her blessed children, Roslyn (Joe) Oliveri, Vicki (Jeff) Gaffney, Jason Pace, and Alison (Jim) Byerly; also, her cherished grandchildren, Neal (Lauren) Bass, Anne-Paige Bass, Casey (Mackie) Chase, Sawyer Gaffney, Draden Gaffney, Sarah Pace, Drew Pace, and Winston Pace; and her beloved grand dogs, Shaury and Anto; and her great grandchildren Kinsley Bass, Kasen Bass, and Averi Utley. Gloria is also survived by her brother Danny Smith, and his wife Dianne, whose care and love were a constant in her life.

Gloria was a gracious, generous woman, wife, mother, grandmother and friend whose life was defined by love, hospitality, faith, and a deep commitment to her family and community. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched with her warmth, humor, and steady care.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to those who supported Gloria with love and compassion during her final years, especially her brother and sister-in-law, Danny and Dianne Smith; devoted neighbors Beverly and Asbury McNeer; and her kind caregiver, Carmen Melendez.

Gloria's Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held Thursday, July 24, 2025, at Woody Funeral Home on 1771 N. Parham Road in Richmond, Virginia. A reception begins at 12 p.m. noon followed by a 1 p.m. Service in the Woody's Chapel. The Graveside Service will take place at Westhampton Memorial Park at 2 p.m.

The family requests, in lieu of flowers, a donation be made to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond: https://donorbox.org/bgcmr