McQueen Willard Pace, 83, of Georgetown, S.C., died Wednesday, May 18, 2016.

Born in Saluda, N.C. he was the son of the late Mitchell and Nethlee Pace. He retired as production manager of Dixie Yarn’s Southern Mercerizing Plant, at its closing in 1996.

Mr. Pace attended Saluda High School until the age 16 at which time he stayed home to help with the family farm. In 1995 he earned his high school diploma through Isothermal Community College, at the age of 62.

Once retired, Willard enjoyed writing and singing country folk songs which he entertained the community with over the years. He was the author of two books, “Return to Bailey Town” and “Witch Ann.” Both novels told the story of people and places in Polk County around the turn of the 20^th century. Also being a talented wood carver, Willard dedicated a walnut angel carving to the Hospice of the Carolina Foothills in honor of his late wife.

Willard enjoyed being a part of the community through the Tryon Little Theatre, The Community Chorus and he also served on the board of the Polk County Historical Association.

Surviving are his daughter Debbie Pace Voso and her husband Chris of Georgetown, S.C.; granddaughter Nicki Voso Blanks and her husband Ryan of Murrells Inlet, S.C.; grandson Peter Voso of Columbia, S.C.; four brothers Gene, Maeco, Lewis, and Walter Pace; two sisters Marie Morina and Frances Alexander, all of Hendersonville, N.C.; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Muriel Pittman Pace.

Private graveside services were held at Polk Memorial Gardens.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, 130 Forest Glen Drive, Columbus, NC 28722.