Shirley Anne Rice

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of a beloved mom, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Mrs. Shirley Rice. She peacefully departed from this world on May 13, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. While we mourn her loss, we celebrate her remarkable life and the countless lives she touched along the way. She was born on November 27, 1933, in Miami, Florida, to Andrew and Beulah (Johnston) McCrea. Shirley was a shining beacon of love, strength, and wisdom. She was a remarkable woman who lived a life dedicated to her family, friends, and her Lord and Savior. Her unwavering love, kindness, and gentle spirit left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her. Shirley was a source of inspiration and guidance to all who sought her wisdom. Her nurturing nature and compassionate heart made her the cornerstone of her family. She had a unique ability to make each person feel cherished, offering comfort, support, and a listening ear in times of joy and sorrow. Shirley cherished simple pleasures throughout her life and found joy in the beauty of nature, music, the company of loved ones, and God. She had an infectious laughter that could fill a room and a smile that warmed the hearts of those around her. Her unconditional love and selflessness were the pillars that held her family together. Beyond her role as a loving woman, she was a devoted member of her community. She never met a stranger, always found a way to pray with them, and loved helping those in need. Her kindness and compassion knew no bounds, and she taught her family the importance of giving back. Shirley will forever be remembered for her unwavering faith and spirituality. Her belief in the Lord, the power of love, forgiveness, and resilience was a guiding light in her life and an example for everyone. She leaves behind a legacy of strength and grace that will continue to inspire her family for generations to come. She is preceded in death by her husband, Charles Franklin Rice, and is survived by her two daughters, Rita Watson and Charlene Vasquez; sons-in-law, Rob Watson and Eric Vasquez; brother, Paul McCrea; sister, Juanita Clark; eight grandchildren and one great-grandson. They will forever carry her memory in their hearts. Although we grieve her loss deeply, we find solace in knowing she has been reunited with her loved ones. On Thursday, May 18, we celebrate Shirley’s amazing life. And we invite all those whose lives she touched to join us in celebrating the remarkable woman who brought light into everyone’s lives. She will be laid to rest alongside her husband, Charles F. Rice, at Auburndale Memorial Park. As we bid farewell to the one and only Shirley Rice, let us remember her for the love she shared, the wisdom she imparted, and the joy she brought into many lives. May her soul find eternal peace, and may we honor her memory by living our lives with the same kindness and love she embodied. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM on Thursday, May 18, 2023, with service to follow at 11:00 AM at Light of Lights Chapel of Victory Church in Lakeland, Florida. Interment will follow immediately after service at Auburndale Memorial Park.

Shirley Anne Rice

November 27, 1933 - May 13, 2023