Florida Times-Union, The (Jacksonville, FL) - February 17, 2005

Lelia C. Rice, “Lee”, died peacefully February 6th at Atlantic Beach, Florida in the presence of Family. A native of Richmond, Virginia, Lelia grew up and for the early years of her life resided in Portsmouth, Virginia where she built a career as a food service executive. For more than forty years, she has been married to and devoted to her husband, Louis A. Rice. As she joined her husband in building careers in the music and video business, their journey through life included homes in several Eastern states. They retired to Atlantic Beach, Florida three years ago. Lelia knew the joy of giving. Wherever the couple resided at any time, she volunteered to serve extensively in nursing homes and Meals on Wheels. She enjoyed sharing her love for people by including personal gifts-often times anonymously. Hundreds of people remember her with love and gratitude. In addition to her loving husband, Lelia is survived by a daughter, Sharron Rice-Heyliger of Houston, Texas; Two so ns, David Rice of Townville, South Carolina and Rick Martin of Candor, North Carolina; seven grandchildren; plus a sister and a brother in Virginia. Lelia attained the highest tribute any of us can ever hope to achieve: To be remembered with love by her family. She made the world a sweeter place. Lelia was returned to Portsmouth, Virginia for an Episcopal service followed by burial in the family plot. Please Sign the Guestbook @ Jacksonville.com