Brenda Carol (Bratz) Mace

Brenda Carol Mace, a cherished soul known affectionately as Brenda to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on the 9th day of January 2026, at the age of 78. Born on the 27th day of July 1947, in Palestine, Texas, Brenda was the beloved daughter of Charles L. Bratz and Jimmie F. Bratz. Her life was a testament to the love and joy she brought to all who knew her.

Brenda's journey through life was shared with her devoted husband of over 60 years, Barry Mace. Together, they built a family founded on love, laughter, and shared memories. She was a loving mother to her daughter, Leslie Nichols and her husband Nolan, and her son, Clayton Mace and his wife Amy. Brenda was also a caring sister to her brother, Chuck Bratz and wife Sue and their son Michael. She was also a devoted sister-in-law to Darlene Ives. Her legacy continues through her adoring grandchildren, Ashley Gomez and her husband Robert, Loren Nance and her husband Kris, Allison Moore and her husband Jonathan, and Kyla Mace, as well as her treasured great-grandchildren, Olivia Nance, Westlyn Gomez, Oliver Nance, and Callen Moore. She is also survived by her nephew Jason Ives, other family members, and a host of friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Jimmie Bratz; her son, Greg Mace; and her brother-in-law Jerry Ives; her niece Jennifer Mixon.

Brenda's commitment to her community was evident through her active membership at the First United Methodist Church in Palestine, Texas. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and her unwavering support for those around her. Brenda's work history and association involvement were marked by her dedication of over 50 years to the Beta Sigma Phi sorority, where she formed lifelong friendships and was known for her kindness, love, and friendly demeanor.

Her interests were a reflection of her nurturing spirit. Brenda loved sewing and crafting, creating beautiful pieces that will be cherished for generations. She took great pleasure in sharing recipes with her granddaughters, passing on family traditions and the warmth of her kitchen. Brenda's love for travel led her to take memorable trips with the girls to Branson, where laughter and adventure were always on the itinerary. An avid camper, she relished the opportunity to connect with nature and spend quality time around the campfire with her loved ones under the stars.

Friends are invited to a visitation with the family from six o’clock until eight o’clock in the evening on Sunday, the 11th day of January 2026 in the Molly Ray Room at Rhone Funeral Home.

Graveside services to celebrate Brenda’s life will be conducted at ten o'clock in the morning, on Monday, the 12th day of January 2026 at Pilgrim Cemetery in Elkhart, Texas with Bro. Reagan Cooksey and Rev. Chuck Bratz officiating the service.

Graveside services for Brenda Carol Mace are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. Please visit her online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with her family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Brenda Carol (Bratz) Mace, please visit our floral store.