Knoxville, TN – Pace Robinson, the retired CEO of Modern Supply Company and a revered figure in the Knoxville community, passed away unexpectedly on November 27 at the age of 65 at his Knoxville home near Fort Loudon Lake. He was remembered for his boundless positive energy and his deep affection for everyone and everything he encountered.
Born in 1958 at St. Mary’s Hospital, Pace was a proud fourth-generation Knoxvillian. He completed his education at Sequoyah Elementary, Tyson Junior High, and West High School before pursuing Finance at the University of Florida, where he was a member of the Tau Epsilon Phi fraternity.
A pivotal moment in Pace’s life occurred during the 1982 World’s Fair when he met Karen, the love of his life, whom he married in 1985. They settled in Knoxville, welcoming two sons, Eli and Asher, shortly thereafter. Pace dedicated his life to serving his business and the local community.
He joined his father, Mitchell Robinson, at Modern Supply and eventually became its President until his retirement in 2017. He deeply cared for the employees, customers, and vendors he interacted with over four decades. Pace also served as President of the Southern Wholesalers Association, advocating for and elevating the industry’s recognition regionally.
His commitment extended beyond his business to numerous community organizations, including the Knoxville Jewish Federation, Heska Amuna Synagogue, Knoxville Utilities Board, Webb School of Knoxville, and the University of Tennessee, where he and Karen established “The Karen and Pace Robinson Enrichment Fund” in the Religious Studies Department.
Beyond his public roles, Pace shone as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, as well as a cherished friend, mentor, and volunteer. His love for a regular poker game spanned over 30 years, where the stakes remained at a modest quarter per chip. Whether on the golf course, aboard a boat, or immersed in a good book, Pace inspired those around him to explore and expand their horizons.
He is survived by his wife of thirty-eight years, Karen Markoff Robinson, sons Eli Nathaniel Robinson (Sarah Scheinman) and Asher Britt Robinson (Laura Diamond), granddaughter Poppy Ella Robinson, siblings A.J. Robinson (Nicole Ellerine) and Geela Rayzel Raphael (Simcha), and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Pace’s funeral is set for today, Tuesday, November 28, at 11:00 AM at Rose Funeral & Cremation – Mann, followed by a graveside service at the New Jewish Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Karen And Pace Enrichment Fund at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville Jewish Alliance, or Mobile Meals. Online condolences can be expressed at www.rosefuneraltn.com.
