Obituary: Sarah Pace

Sarah Vail Pace, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, died on Oct. 13, 2026.

Sarah was born on March 1, 1954, and was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Eleanore Vail. She was a nurse for 38 years and an artist her entire life.

Sarah met her beloved husband, Steve, at a Halloween party in 1972. They were married for 52 years. They had three children and seven grandchildren. Sarah had an astounding capacity for love and grace, opening her heart and her home to anyone who needed a soft place to land.

A lifelong community servant, Sarah was a driving force for positive change in both Oxford and Reily; she gave her time generously for the causes she believed in. Most recently, she served as board president for the Friends of the Oxford Lane Library. In 2021, she played a fundamental role in promoting COVID-19 vaccine education for the Oxford Community.

She is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren, dog and a large, loving family of siblings whose bonds were formed through birth, adoption and the blending of families over the years. 

The family is grateful for the incredible circle of friends and neighbors who wrapped Sarah in love, laughter and comfort during her illness. 

In keeping with Sarah’s wishes, there will be a small private scattering of her ashes, and a celebration of life at a later date.

This obituary was submitted to the Oxford Free Press.