Barbara Jean Rice's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Barbara Jean Lassiter Rice.
Barbara Jean Lassiter Rice, 85, transitioned peacefully in her sleep, on October 22, 2023, with family by her side. We rejoice in the homegoing of this remarkable woman who lived her life to the fullest and introduced many to the Savior, Jesus Christ.
Born August 23,1938, she came to the world, fearfully and wonderfully made, as the third child to Reverend William and Ira Viola (Bowser) Lassiter in Windsor NC. She was a devoted and loving mother to, Oliver Jr, Veretta (Vee) and Chelsea, and the former wife to Oliver Rice Sr (Deceased). As a child, she developed her love for people and sharing the love of Christ. After attending local schools in Bertie County, she went to Hampton Institute to study nursing and worked at Whitaker Hospital. Thereafter, she became a mother and homemaker while using her talents to raise her children and give back to the community as a teacher and community leader, supporting the Boy Scouts and various sports teams and cheerleaders. Barbara Rice also owned a day care and a small clothing business, making choir uniforms and women’s clothing. Later she made beautiful quilts, and custom dolls.
Barbara Rice was an avid and active member of her church and known as a woman of faith. She is recognized as a prayer warrior and often led intercessory prayer groups. Through her faithful service and desire to impact the lives of hurting people, she worked as a telephone Counselor at the 700 Club, where was awarded the top performance acknowledgement and reward. She moved to Georgia to be closer to family and worked as a telephone operator and later, worked as a caregiver, blessing children, the sick and elderly by praying, ministering, singing, and reading the word of God. Her impact on our lives is immeasurable. She was a source of strength, guidance, and unwavering love for her family. She was not just a mom; she was a best friend, a confidant, and the embodiment of unconditional love. Her children rise up and call her blessed.
Throughout her life, Barbara Rice embraced every moment with a zest for life that was truly infectious, and you often would hear her say, “Praise the Lord!”, in the good times, the bad times, the happy or sad times. She loved her family and gave unselfishly as she spent quality time with them. She also kept a song in her heart and everyone who was fortunate to be in her presence will always remember her smile. The joy of the Lord was her strength. She had an adventurous spirit, and traveled to places like Hawaii, Germany, and Japan. Whether it was traveling to distant lands, embarking on outdoor adventures, or savoring the simple joys of life, Barbara Rice approached each experience with boundless enthusiasm- and she invited you to join the journey with her.
Her sharing and caring spirit is a constant testimony of God’s grace towards humanity. She had an extraordinary ability to spread happiness and warmth to everyone she encountered. She was known for her contagious laughter, her kindness, and her ability to make people feel valued and loved.
She was predeceased by her parents, William and Ira Viola Lassiter; her sisters, Libby Heckstall and Joyce Collymore; her brother, Walter Lassiter and son, Oliver Rice Jr.
She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will continue to inspire and uplift all who knew her. She is survived by her brother, Donald Lassiter (Faye) and sister, Viola Veale; her daughters, Veretta Yancey and Chelsea Glymph; her grandchildren, Dr. S. LaMar Rice, Alauna Mann (Chris), Chantelle Gregory, Joshua Glymph and her great-grandchildren, Ylana Gregory, Brielle Gregory and Christopher Smith.
A special thank you from our family to “Team Barbara” the amazing caregivers who dedicated their time, love, and attention to the care of our beloved. We cannot thank you enough for your kindness and compassion. She will forever hold a special place in the hearts of her family and friends.
She lived a life of love and happiness. Her memory will live on in the stories we share and the love we continue to nurture.
A celebration of Barbara Rice's life will be held from 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 16, 2023 at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel, 10719 Courthouse Road, Fredericksburg, where friends and family are welcome to join in commemorating the extraordinary journey of a mother who lived life as unto the Lord.
She is now at peace and in a glorious place with the Savior. Well done, Barbara Rice, a good and faithful servant. It is well with our souls.
Please send all cards and well wishes to:
Found and Sons
℅ Chelsea Glymph
10719 Courthouse Road
Fredericksburg, VA 22407
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