Rev. Ira Winsor Chace

Rev. Ira Winsor Chace, of Melbourne FL, passed away peacefully at home on May 8, 2025 surrounded by his family.

Born into a prominent Tiverton family, Ira Chace grew up with strong roots in the Amicable Congregational Church (UCC) of Tiverton Four Corners. He pursued higher education at Babson College in the 1950s. After early work in business, Ira followed a calling to ministry and was ordained in the United Church of Christ in 1965. Following his ordination, he served churches in NH, CT, and Massachusetts where he also served on the Conference Board of Directors.

Rev. Chace served as the founding pastor of what would become Pilgrimage UCC in Marietta, Georgia. From 1979-1986, he grew the congregation, oversaw construction of their sanctuary, and promoted ecumenical values and justice in Cobb County. From 1986-1998 Rev. Chace served Coral Isles UCC in Tavernier, Florida. He became a pillar in the Upper Keys community, ministering through storms, leading memorials, and fostering interfaith unity across the island region, while also serving on the Florida Conference Board of Directors.

Retiring in 1998 he went home to Tiverton, RI. He remained active in Amicable Congregational Church into his 80's, mentoring and volunteering while also working part time at 1st Congregational Church in Bristol, RI.

Rev. Chace was predeceased by his first wife, Barbara Rich Chace, daughter Margie, and son Mike. Rev. Chace is survived by his loving wife of over five decades, Margery "Midge" Chace. He leaves behind children: daughter Susan (Chace) Hand along with her husband Dennis Hand, and son Gregory Chace and his wife Jennifer Chace along with grandchildren Matthew Hand, Jason Hand, Brennan Chace, Zachary Chace, and Patrick Chace.

Rev. Chace served communities from Rhode Island to Georgia and to the Florida Keys with warmth, wisdom, and quiet strength. He was known for his inclusive sermons, steady leadership, and unfailing dedication to helping others. In each community, he built bridges and left a lasting spiritual legacy.

A memorial service will be held at Amicable Congregational Church in Tiverton on September 19 at 10 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Amicable Congregational Church (3736 Main Rd., Tiverton, RI 02878) or a favorite charity in his memory.

Rev. Ira Winsor Chace's life was a testament to faith, service, and family. He leaves behind a world made better by his care.

"Well done, good and faithful servant…..Enter into the joy of your Lord." (Matthew 25:23)