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Cathy Pace Obituary: Pensacola Florida, Legendary Flora Bama Musician, Has Suddenly Passed Away

Marcus Vance • Sep 26, 2026 • 7 min read

We mourn the passing of Catherine Pace Stroud, a talented musician and devoted Co-Pastor. Born on April 3, 1961, in Pensacola, Florida, Catherine had a deep love for music from an early age. She traveled with Christian bands, singing gospel alongside her mother. For over three decades, Catherine showcased her musical prowess at the Flora-Bama, performing with various ensembles and hosting their renowned open mic night. Her passion for music and God led her to become a Co-Pastor at New Hope Christian Center. Catherine leaves behind a loving companion, Carla Johnson, and a large musical and family community. A memorial service will be held on November 30, 2023, at the Trahan Family Funeral Home in Pensacola. Let us remember Catherine’s remarkable life and the joy she brought through her music.

Cathy Pace Obituary: A Musical Legacy Remembered

Catherine Pace Stroud, a talented musician and devoted Co-Pastor, has left behind a remarkable musical legacy that will forever be remembered. Born on April 3, 1961, in Pensacola, Florida, Catherine’s love for music was evident from a young age. She embarked on a journey alongside Christian bands, using her beautiful voice to spread the joy of gospel music. Her passion for music and God led her to become a Co-Pastor at New Hope Christian Center, where she found solace in guiding others on their spiritual paths. Catherine’s musical journey and her unwavering faith have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.

Early Life and Family

Catherine’s musical journey began with the loving support of her parents, Abraham and Marcia Stroud. From a young age, she inherited her mother’s passion for music and embarked on a remarkable journey singing gospel alongside Christian bands. Music was not just a hobby for Catherine; it was a part of her soul. Her early experiences shaped her into the remarkable musician she became, and her love for music was nurtured by her family’s unwavering support.

Music Career

For over three decades, Catherine dedicated her life to music, captivating audiences with her talent and passion. She graced the stage of the iconic Flora-Bama, performing with various ensembles and leaving a lasting impression on the local music scene. Catherine’s musical prowess extended beyond the borders of Pensacola, as she embarked on a Department of Defense tour, sharing her gift with audiences overseas. Not only was she a performer, but she also played a significant role in fostering the local music community. For twenty years, she hosted the renowned open mic night at the Flora-Bama, providing a platform for aspiring musicians to showcase their talents. Catherine’s dedication and support for fellow artists made her an integral part of the vibrant music scene in Pensacola.

Co-Pastor at New Hope Christian Center

In recent years, Catherine’s spiritual journey led her to embrace a new calling as a Co-Pastor at New Hope Christian Center. Combining her love for music and her unwavering faith, she found solace in guiding others on their spiritual paths. Her passion for both music and God shone brightly as she dedicated herself to serving the congregation and spreading messages of hope and love. Catherine’s role as a Co-Pastor allowed her to touch the lives of many, providing comfort and guidance through her music and faith.

Surviving Family Members

Catherine’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of her loved ones. She was preceded in death by her parents, Abraham and Marcia Stroud, as well as her sister Mary Stroud and brother Kevin Stroud. She is survived by her brothers Sam (Tamara) Stroud, Frank (Wayvon) Stroud, and Clay Stroud. Catherine also leaves behind a large extended family, including numerous nieces, nephews, and her life companion, Carla Johnson. Her musical family, who shared countless moments of harmony and creativity, will forever cherish her memory. Catherine’s legacy lives on through her family, who will continue to honor her love for music and her unwavering faith.

In conclusion, Catherine Pace Stroud’s remarkable life and musical journey have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. Her passion for music, her unwavering faith, and her dedication to serving others will forever be remembered. As we gather to celebrate her life and musical legacy, let us remember the joy she brought through her music and the profound impact she had on the Pensacola community.

Memorial Service Details

The memorial service to honor the life of Catherine Pace Stroud will be a heartfelt gathering where friends, family, and community members can come together to pay their respects and celebrate her remarkable life. It is an opportunity to reflect on the impact she had on the lives of those around her and to find solace in the memories shared.

Date and Time

The memorial service will take place on Thursday, November 30, 2023, providing a designated time for everyone to come together and honor Catherine’s life. The service will commence at three o’clock in the afternoon, allowing attendees to gather and share their memories of Catherine in a meaningful way.

Location

The memorial service will be held at the Trahan Family Funeral Home, located at 60 Industrial Blvd. in Pensacola. This serene and comforting venue has been chosen to provide a peaceful setting for attendees to gather and remember Catherine’s remarkable life. The Trahan Family Funeral Home staff will be present to offer guidance and support throughout the visitation period, which will begin at 2:00 p.m.

As we come together to remember Catherine and the impact she had on our lives, let us find solace in the shared memories and the support of our community. The memorial service will be a time to honor her legacy and find comfort in the presence of loved ones.