Knoxville, Tennessee – is mourning the passing of Pace Robinson, the retired CEO of Modern Supply Co. The announcement of his death came yesterday, Monday, the 27th of November 2023. Pace, who passed away at his home overlooking Fort Loudon Lake, was 65 years old. His legacy is marked by the unwavering positive energy and love he shared with everyone fortunate enough to cross his path.
Pace Robinson, born in 1958 and a fourth-generation Knoxville native, brought vitality and dedication to his community. A graduate of Sequoyah Elementary, Tyson Junior, and West High, he went on to study finance at the University of Florida, where he joined Tau Epsilon Phi. His life took a significant turn during the 1982 World’s Fair, where he met his life partner, Karen. They married in 1985 and settled in Knoxville, where they welcomed their two sons, Eli and Asher.
Pace’s professional journey included working alongside his father, Mitchell Robinson, at Modern Supply. Following Mitchell’s passing, Pace assumed the role of president until his retirement in 2017. His genuine care extended beyond the business realm, embracing thousands of workers, customers, and suppliers over four decades. As president of the Southern Wholesalers Association, he elevated industry exposure and esteem.
Pace’s commitment to community service was unparalleled. He led various organizations, including the Knoxville Jewish Federation, Knoxville Jewish Alliance, Heska Amuna Synagogue, Knoxville Jewish Community Family of Funds, Webb School of Knoxville, and served as Chairman of the Knoxville Utilities Board. His philanthropy extended to the University of Tennessee, where he and Karen funded “The Karen and Pace Robinson Enrichment Fund” in Religious Studies.
Jack Love shared a post on fb on the death of Pace:
Our Knoxville community was deeply saddened today to learn of the passing of our friend and congregant, Pace Robinson. Terri and I were privileged to be welcomed to Knoxville by Pace and his gracious wife Karen, and often to join them at their beautiful home on Fort Louden Lake.
May his memory serve as a blessing. May the cords of his memory be bound with ours so that he lives on forever through us.
Pace Robinson is survived by his wife of thirty-eight years, Karen Markoff Robinson, sons Eli Nathaniel Robinson (Sarah Scheinman) and Asher Britt Robinson (Laura Diamond), and granddaughter Poppy Ella Robinson. He is also survived by his siblings A.J. Robinson (Nicole Ellerine) and Geela Rayzel Raphael (Simcha), along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
His funeral, a solemn moment for the Knoxville community, takes place today, Tuesday, November 28, at 11:00 AM at Rose Funeral & Cremation – Mann, located at 6200 Kingston Pike. As friends, family, and the community gather to bid farewell, Pace Robinson’s legacy of generosity, leadership, and love will undoubtedly endure in the hearts of those who knew him.
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