Funeral Service for Burnice Lawrence Mace, Age 57 of Licking, Missouri will be held on Tuesday, July 7th, 2026 at The Fox Funeral Home, Licking, Missouri, beginning 2:00 PM. Visitation will precede the service, beginning at 1:00 PM.
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Bernie Mace, who passed away on July 4, 2026, at the age of 57, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Bernie was born on July 8, 1968, in Houston, Missouri, to Cletis and B.L. Mace. He was raised on the family farm, where he learned the value of hard work, perseverance, and family. He later built a life of his own and raised his family just up the road from where he grew up, staying close to the place that always felt like home.
Bernie dedicated many years of his life as a lineman before transitioning into building homes, helping create places where other families could build their own memories. After years of hard work, he embraced his favorite title of all—Papa. Retirement wasn’t about slowing down; it was about spending every moment he could with the people he loved most.
Whether he was riding his motorcycle, hunting in the woods, fishing on a quiet day, or simply sitting around surrounded by family and friends, Bernie was happiest when the people he loved were together. He had a one-of-a-kind sense of humor, could tell stories that kept everyone laughing, and never met a stranger for long. He was stubborn and hard-headed at times, but those who loved him wouldn’t have wanted him any other way. That determination carried him through life and through his battle with cancer, which he faced with remarkable strength and courage.
Above everything else, Bernie loved his family with his whole heart. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and an adoring grandfather whose greatest joy came from watching his family grow.
Bernie is survived by his beloved wife, Sherry Mace; his children, Johnny Bo, Paige Mace, Jerzie Freeman, and Bernie Mace; his son-in-law, John Freeman; his soon-to-be daughter-in-law, Madison Larimore; and his ten cherished grandchildren: Harper, Harley, Nick, Olivia, Remy, Kynlee, Little Johnny, Elaina, Heidie, and Bennett.
He is also survived by his sister, Anita Harris; his brother, Randy Mace; his nieces and nephew, Brandi Mace, Jessica Harris, and Josh Harris; his great-niece, Kynlee Rayne; along with many extended family members, lifelong friends, and everyone fortunate enough to know him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Cletis and B.L. Mace; his brother-in-law, Bobby Harris; his nephew, Lee Mace; his great-niece, Maycie Dove; his great-nephew, Gunner Lee; and his faithful horse and companion, Doc, who was by his side for nearly 30 years.
Cancer may have taken Bernie from us, but it never took his spirit. He fought with everything he had because he loved his family with everything he was. His strength, wisdom, laughter, and unconditional love will continue to live on in the countless memories he created with those who loved him.
Though our hearts are broken beyond words, we are grateful for every story, every laugh, every lesson, and every moment we shared with him. His life was one of hard work, unwavering love, and fierce devotion to his family. That legacy will never fade.
