Elinor "Elly" Louise Pace

It is with great sadness to announce the passing of Elinor "Elly" Louise Herrold Pace of La Verne, California. Elinor entered into rest at the age 95 on Saturday, April 5, 2025 in her home in La Verne, California. Elinor was born in El Monte, California on January 19, 1930.

Elinor was married to Everett Wyman Pace on January 12, 1946. They were married for 60 years until he passed away in 2006. She was also preceded in death by her youngest son, Kenneth David Pace, in 2024. Elinor and Everett raised three sons in La Verne; Mearl Everett Pace, Richard LeRoy Pace, and Kenneth David Pace. She is survived by Mearl “Skip” Pace, Richard Pace and his wife Susan, granddaughter Erin Pace-Molina and her husband Francisco Molina, and her daughter-in-law Brenda Pace. She is also survived by her foster daughters Sandy Swanson, Debbie Pence, and Karen Gallagher as well as her beloved foster grandchildren.

Elinor’s unwavering faith was the foundation of her life, offering her strength, peace, and purpose. A devoted prayer warrior, she faithfully lifted others in prayer and found joy in encouraging those around her. She was a dedicated member of the North Hills Church in Claremont, and before that, spent many meaningful years with the Church of the Brethren in La Verne.

Elinor loved her family deeply and was proud of her sons and granddaughter. She also loved her dog Lulu who was her constant companion for years and is now in the home of her granddaughter, Erin.

Elinor was active in the La Verne community for many years. Alongside her husband Everett, she owned and operated Elly's Drive-In, the Game Room, and a second-hand store. She also worked for years as a waitress and carhop. She was also passionate about helping children in need and spent many years volunteering at the David and Margaret Home.

She loved gardening and took great pride in her extensive succulent collection. It was common to find her outside with her dog Lulu, watering, trimming, and tending to her plants and fruit trees—something that brought her both peace and joy. Elinor also had a deep appreciation for the arts. She loved music, was highly creative, and enjoyed expressing herself through writing.

Whether relaxing in her garden, praying for one of her many friends, or working on a creative project, she found beauty in everyday moments.

One of Elinor’s favorite quotes was:

“Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That's why we call it 'The Present'”

– Eleanor Roosevelt