Dorothy J. Pace

Dorothy Jane Pace, beloved educator, psychologist, and humanitarian, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2025, in her hometown of Temple, Texas. She was 83.

Born on January 14, 1942, in Temple to Edward and Dorothy Patterson Pace, Dorothy’s life was marked by a deep commitment to learning, service, and compassion. A proud graduate of Temple High School (Class of 1960), she pursued higher education with vigor—earning her BA from Texas A&I University (1966), followed by a Master’s (1973) and PhD in Psychology (1975) from Oklahoma State University.

Dorothy dedicated over three decades to teaching as a Professor of Psychology at Texas A&M University–Kingsville. She also served her community as a Licensed Psychologist, working with Kleberg County Family Guidance Service, where her gentle wisdom and empathy touched countless lives.

Her passion for helping others extended far beyond the classroom. As a volunteer with the Red Cross Disaster Assistance team, Dorothy provided on-site counseling and support to survivors of tragedies across the globe - including Hurricane Ike in Texas (2009), the aftermath of 9/11 in New York, and wildfires in Colorado (2016). Dorothy’s love for animals, especially dogs, was well known - she was a skilled trainer and a devoted companion to many furry friends.

Dorothy married Jim Ham in 1987. The couple returned to Temple in 2006, where Dorothy continued her lifelong commitment to service. She was a faithful member of Christ Episcopal Church and volunteered with the Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum and the Temple Springer Archives. She also contributed to trauma planning efforts with the Central Texas Regional Advisory Council and continued her Disaster Response service with the Red Cross.

Dorothy was predeceased by her parents, Edward and Dorothy Pace, and her husband, Jim Ham. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, intellect, and unwavering dedication to others.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. at Christ Episcopal Church on Friday, August 22, 2025, followed with a reception. Committal will be at Hillcrest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Christ Episcopal Church or the Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum, causes close to Dorothy’s heart.