Wanda Sue Pace

Wanda Sue Pace—known to all simply as Sue—was a passionate redhead in every sense of the word. Born in December of 1956, she moved through life with a fire that was quick to love and just as quick to defend the people she cared about.

Sue was a wife and a mother first and foremost, but a teacher closely after that. (Teaching was more than a profession and was deeply ingrained in her.) Even as she succumbed to an aggressive form of dementia, her heart remained in the classroom. When memories began to fade, her instinct to help others didn't; she often spoke of students, lessons, and "lunch ladies," proving that her nurturing spirit was deeper than the disease.

She has gone on to a joyful reunion with her mother, Merle Weeks, her aunt, Mary Ruth Ballard, and her sister, June Gordon.

She is survived by her husband, Mike; her son Michael Pace, PhD, EdD, his wife Leah, and granddaughters Cassidy and Emma; and her son Major Stephen Pace, USAF (ret), his wife Carolyn, and grandchildren Oliver, Jordyn, and Laurel.

A small remembrance service will be held to celebrate her life. Condolences can be sent to Smith and Kernke (www.smithandkernke.com). In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Sue’s lifelong love of education by donating to your local library. Or considering donating to support the research of the Alzheimer’s Association.