Recognizing the Life of Jill Rice

Floor Speech

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Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of Jill Rice, who passed away on November 17, on her 78th birthday. After a hard-fought battle with Alzheimer's disease, Mrs. Rice is now at peace with our Lord, though she will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her.

Jill was born in Memphis, Tennessee to Willie Clyde and Mary Lavelle Rowan White. She married Massachusetts native Richard Thomas Rice in September of 1960. Richard dedicated 20 years to the United States Navy before the couple moved to Mooreville, Mississippi in 1979.

Mrs. Rice was not only known as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, but for her wide variety of interests and hobbies. As a Black Belt in Taekwondo, she achieved many awards among her age group. She spent her free time with her beloved grandchildren and kittens.

Jill Rice is survived by her husband of 60 years, Richard Rice; their daughter, Debbie; three grandsons; and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son Gary who passed away in 1999.

Mrs. Rice embodied a remarkable kindness and empathy felt by all those she knew. She will be greatly missed, and I join her loved ones in mourning her loss.

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