Betty Carol Pace Clark

Betty Carol Pace Clark, mother, wife, friend, and executive, passed away on December 23, 2025 at 95 surrounded by family. She was born on April 3, 1930, the daughter of James Fred Pace and Alcie Kinslow Pace.

She was raised in Marrowbone, Kentucky before continuing her education with degrees from Ward Belmont Preparatory School, the University of Kentucky (UK), and the Harvard-Radcliffe Business Administration Program.

After working as Chi Omega Chapter Visitor Representative, Betty Carol’s career took her to New York. Her sales success while working at the Hotels, New Yorker and Roosevelt got her into Who’s Who of American Women and on TV with Eleanor Roosevelt. She loved cities and especially New York where she met Robert O. Clark, a Swiss native and Waldorf Astoria Executive. They married in 1958, a 62-year marriage. They went on to work for Hilton in San Francisco until 1961 when they made Glasgow home.

In Glasgow, Betty Carol was at the heart of shaping community life. As an owner of the Holiday Inn, and a gracious hostess and advocate, she helped to bring new investment to Glasgow. She expanded the United Community Bank, formerly the Bank of Marrowbone, as the Bank’s President. She continued to manage the family farm and real estate. Beyond business Betty Carol held leadership roles as the first female director of the Glasgow and Kentucky Chambers of Commerce. Her energy and dedication impacted organizations like the First Presbyterian Church, Glasgow Country Club, Glasgow Musicale, Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Kentucky Museum.

An advocate for higher education, she had a lifelong commitment to UK, never missing a ball game. An active student, she was the first woman elected to student government, Chi Omega President, ODK (a leadership organization) and Mortar Board Honors Society member and National Secretary. She received the Distinguished Alumni Service Award for her leadership on the UK Board of Trustees for many years, as Alumni Association Membership Chairman, serving on The Development Council, and at the Center on Aging.

Her love of travel and connecting with friends and family was as central to her story as her work in business and community service. She and her late husband enjoyed travelling the world, serving as Kentucky ambassadors. Her passion for life and adventure continued into her 90s, playing bridge, going to the races, and taking trips anywhere she could. She took her last international trip in 2024 going on a family Christmas cruise. She was an avid needle pointer, completing over 50 pieces. A horse lover, she taught riding and competed in horse shows, helping to start the Horse Park.

Betty Carol will be remembered for her beautiful smile, impeccable style, great parties, sassy one liners, and stubborn determination to live life to the fullest no matter what. She mentored many, was a loyal friend, and adored by her friends and family.

She is survived by her son, Fred Anson (Holly) of San Francisco, Heather Pace (Benno), of Zurich, sister Hazeleen Brewster of Cincinnati, nieces, and nephews. Her Family is grateful for the support of dedicated caregivers, Alexis Rowlett, Sharon Whitehead, and America Ann Shirley, who served for more than five years, among many others.

A service celebrating Betty Carol’s life will be held Saturday, January 3, 2026 at 11:00 AM with visitation from 9:00-11:00AM at the First Presbyterian Church, 200 E Washington Street, Glasgow, Kentucky with a reception to follow.

Memorials can be made to University of Kentucky Philanthropy in her name.

A.F. Crow and Son Funeral Home is making arrangements for the family.