News Summary
Orlando’s LGBTQ+ community is mourning the loss of Chadrick Pace, known as Divine Grace, who passed away recently. A beloved performer celebrated for his authenticity and humor, Divine Grace left a significant impact in the drag scene and beyond. Tributes from fellow artists and friends highlight his legacy of love and light. A celebration of his life is planned at Savoy Orlando, allowing the community to honor the vibrant spirit of this iconic performer.
Orlando Mourns the Loss of Drag Icon Divine Grace
Orlando’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community is reeling from the heart-wrenching news of the passing of Chadrick Pace, widely known by his drag persona, Divine Grace. The beloved performer, who graced stages throughout the area for many years, died over the weekend, leaving behind a legacy that touches countless lives. News of his departure was announced by Fruit Wine Productions on April 27, sending waves of sorrow and tributes across social media.
A Community Pillar
Divine Grace was not just a drag performer; she was a beloved figure celebrated for her sharp wit, theatrical flair, and unmatched authenticity. Known for her unforgettable performances, she charmed audiences and made a significant impact in Orlando’s drag scene. Her legacy is characterized by a blend of courage, creativity, and compassion, traits that resonated with friends and fans alike.
Pace teamed up with Fruit Wine Productions for several shows that garnered fond memories, including the notable “The Golden Gals Live”, where he portrayed the beloved character Dorothy Zbornak. Teaming up with fellow drag icons such as Ginger Minj, Gidget Galore, and MrMs Adrien, the ensemble created magical moments that audiences will cherish forever.
Heartfelt Tributes
Among those expressing sorrow over Pace’s passing is fellow performer Ginger Minj, who described him as a constant presence in her life over the past twelve years. Her words highlight the profound impact that Divine Grace had in her community in just 50 years. Furthermore, Brandon Bracale-Llewellyn, the owner of Savoy, where Pace hosted weekly karaoke, shared heartfelt sentiments on social media. He paints a picture of Divine Grace as a source of light, laughter, and love. Beyond a mere colleague, he was a true friend and an inspiration, continually offering unwavering support every step of the way.
A Unique Voice
In addition to his dynamic performances, Pace was an accomplished writer, contributing a column titled “Sweet Divinity” for Watermark Out News. Within these pieces, he showcased his unique humor and candid opinions on a variety of topics—ranging from religion to politics, as well as tackling important issues like homophobia and even discussing the occasional hurricane. His voice resonated with many, making readers feel understood and connected.
Celebrating Life
Pace was born and raised in North Carolina by progressive Baby Boomers and celebrated his milestone 50th birthday earlier this year. This memorable occasion was rocked by a roast from friends at Savoy, an event filled with laughter and love. A fitting tribute to his remarkable life, a celebration of life for Chadrick Pace is scheduled for April 30 at 7 p.m. at Savoy Orlando, providing a chance for friends and fans to come together and celebrate the magic he brought into the world.
Chadrick Pace, or Divine Grace as many lovingly knew him, may no longer be with us, but his spirit and light will surely live on in the memories of those who had the pleasure of knowing him. As the community gathers to honor this renowned personality, one thing is clear—his impact will be felt long into the future, making him an unforgettable chapter in the book of Orlando’s vibrant cultural landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Watermark Online
- Wikipedia: Drag Performance
- Orlando Sentinel
- Google Search: Divine Grace Obituary
- Orlando Weekly
- Encyclopedia Britannica: LGBT Rights
- Watermark Online Events
- Google News: Central Florida Wonder Awards
