Who Was Judy Pace's Husband, Curt Flood? All About Him Amid The 'Brian's Song' Actress' Death At 83

Judy Pace has passed away at the age of 83. She was best known for her versatile roles in films such as Brian's Song, Cotton Comes to Harlem, and more. While fans have sent their tributes to the icon, they are also revisiting her incredible life and career, including her connections to another significant figure in American history, baseball legend, Curt Flood. 

The actress' second husband, Curt, was not just an athlete but also a key figure in major changes in players' rights in professional baseball. Subsequently, the couple's marriage brought together the worlds of sports and entertainment. Although the actress has bid farewell to the world, let's recall their love story. 

Who was Curt Flood?

Judy Pace's second husband, Curt Flood, was a popular center fielder in Major League Baseball. He was best known for his stint with the St. Louis Cardinals. He played in the league for 12 seasons and ended his career as one of the most respected defensive players. Curt earned several Gold Glove Awards from the National League from 1963 to 1969 before being selected to the All-Star team three times. 

The baseball legend also played a significant part in the Cardinals' World Series Victories in 1964 and 1967. These seasons strengthened his position as one of the baseball league's most dependable center fielders. However, he made headlines in 1969 when he refused to accept a trade from the Cardinals to the Philadelphia Phillies. He argued that players should have some say in the same in their trade and they should not be treated as property. 

Subsequently, Curt's refusal to accept his trade led to one of the most important legal battles in sports history. He filed a lawsuit against Major League Baseball challenging the controversial "reserve clause," which tied players to one team indefinitely. The case was titled 'Flood v. Kuhn' and reached the doors of the Supreme Court in 1972. Curt ultimately lost the case, but the popularity of his claims sparked a change and eventually led to the creation of free agency in baseball. Later, the U.S. Congress passed the Curt Flood Act, which strengthened players' labor rights.

Judy Pace and Curt Flood's unconventional love story 

Judy Pace and Curt Flood's love story began long before they tied the knot. According to multiple news reports, Curt first noticed Judy when she appeared on The Dating Game in the 1960s. They soon met and went on their first date together at Dodger Stadium. As Curt prepared for his legal battle against MLB, their bond grew stronger. However, they parted ways and married other people. 

Judy Pace tied the knot with Don Mitchell, and Curt got married, too. But after several years, their paths crossed again, and following the actress's split from Don, they reunited. The couple tied the knot in 1986 and remained together for more than a decade until he died in 1997.

What caused Judy Pace's death? 

Judy Pace's death at 83 has once again brought attention to her impressive legacy. According to reports cited by Deadline, Judy's daughters, Julia Pace Mitchell and Shawn Meshelle Mitchell, revealed that she died peacefully in her sleep on March 11, 2026, while visiting family in Marina Del Rey, California. They mentioned that their mother's final moments were calm and surrounded by loved ones. However, the family did not reveal any official cause of death. She is now survived by her daughters and her grandson, Stephen Lamar Hightower III. 

Rest in peace, Judy Pace. 

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