Sharon “Sherry” Denise Pace, 54, of Stoney Knoll Road, Mill Spring, NC died Sunday, Dec. 1, 2013 at her home.

Born in Polk County, she was the daughter of Grace McDowell Gilbert Schwendenmann of Mill Spring, and the late Ireland Gilbert.

She was a graduate of Polk Central High School and was a member of Mill Spring Baptist Church, Mill Spring.

Surviving are her mother, Grace McDowell Schwendenmann of Mill Spring; her companion for 18 years, Gary Short of the home; an uncle, Perry McDowell (Rosalee) of Mill Spring; an aunt, Shirley McDowell of Landrum; and a beloved pet, Sheila.

She was preceded in death by a brother, Randy Gilbert, who died in 2003.

Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5, 2013 in the Mill Spring Baptist Church Cemetery, with Dr. Vince Heffner and Rev. David Bame officiating.

The family will receive friends immediately following the service in the fellowship hall of Mill Spring Baptist Church.

Memorials may be made to the Foothills Humane Society, 989 Little Mountain Rd, Columbus, N.C. 28722.

An on line guest register may be signed at www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com.