Marcie Rice, age 56, was born on December 2, 1965, and entered the kingdom of heaven on January 18, 2022. She was born to Francisco and Josefina Valdez. She is survived by her husband of 32 years, Jackie Rice, her two sons Brandon and Evan Rice. Her stepchildren, Tony Rice and Heather Denton and three-step grandchildren. Also, her sisters, Lucila (Aurelio) Diaz, Martha (Jose) Hernandez, Juanita (Juan) Herrera, six nephews and two nieces.

Marcie left us too soon but leaves behind a beautiful legacy as she was a faithful child of God, giving her life to Christ at a young age and devoutly serving him her entire life. She was truly a wonderful and loving wife to her husband, Jackie, who will always be the love of her life. She was also a remarkable and loving mother to her sons Brandon and Evan, of whom she was very proud of and meant the world to her. She had an unconditional love for her entire family and friends.

She graduated from Palo Verde High School in 1984 and worked as an Instructional Assistant at Margaret White Elementary School for approximately 17 years and recently retired in June 2021. She had a huge heart for everyone that she met. The staff and the children she worked with loved her very much. She also loved listening to worship songs, attending church services, and watching sermons at home with her family. She was an excellent cook; everyone loved her Thanksgiving stuffing, which she made from scratch, her awesome potato salad and fruit salad; as well as her delicious shrimp cocktails.

Marcie will forever be remembered for her heart of gold and beautiful personality. She was a strong and virtuous woman filled with humility. She was an amazing hospitable person, always welcoming others with open arms, making company feel right at home. She was also a sweet and caring person who loved animals. She would rescue dogs and cats on the side of the road and would provide shelter for them or find them a good loving home. She left behind many fur babies that will miss her very much.

She will be dearly missed by all who knew her, as she left a huge void in their hearts. But until we meet again, we are sure she is rejoicing in the Lord's presence next to her loving parents and grandparents. We will forever cherish the special memories she left behind, we will miss her beautiful sparkling smile and laughter, and we will continue loving her in our hearts.

A combined Celebration of Life (with her mother) will be held on Tuesday, February 15, 2022, at 5 pm to 8 pm, at Frye Chapel; and the funeral service will be Wednesday, February 16, 2022, at 10 am, at Blythe Central Seventh Day Adventist Church, 415 E. Barnard. Burial services will follow immediately after at Palo Verde Cemetery.