Mrs. Mildred (Singletary) Rice

UTICA - Mrs. Mildred (Singletary) Rice, age 83, passed away on Wednesday, July 18, 2018 and is awaiting the Resurrection. Her loving family was by her side when she passed at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center. Born in Kingstree, South Carolina on May 12, 1935, Mildred was the daughter of the late Silas and Lou (Pendergras) Singletary. She relocated to New York City where she was raised and educated. In January of 1953, she married Donald Rice, a union that was blessed for 65 years. Their relationship was happy and loving and they set a good example for their children. Their love was strong until their last day together. Mildred was the Associate Director of the Utica Community Develop Corporation, and later became the first manager of their urban renewal project at Kennedy Plaza. She was the Economic Development Specialist for the Mohawk Valley Economic Development Corporation which, at the time, included 5 counties. Concurrently, she continued her education in Social Science at MVCC. In her retirement years, she worked as a Flag Person wearing her stylish designer steel-toed boots and was always her elegant self. Mildred had a way with words and sincerely spoke uplifting phrases that put a bright spin on any situation. A truly stunning woman, her elegance was seen by her style and grace. She had a versatile personality, was kind, generous, and could recognize the needs of others. She was blessed with five daughters, but was a mother to many. As a mom, she always encouraged her children to embrace excellence in all their endeavors. She was a self-made woman and taught her daughters through her words, actions, and example, that they could do anything they set their minds to. Education was paramount, and each of them complied and made mom proud. She often traveled to visit her family and take in the sights on the way. She had an adventurous side and wanted to enjoy all the beautiful people, places, and things that the world has to offer. She was a great hostess and entertainer who enjoyed cooking multi-ethnic meals. She was also a gifted seamstress and learned the art of upholstery. Mildred was member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses and had a passion to preach the good news. She led by example, went door-to-door, and anytime she had an opportunity to teach the Bible, she was at her happiest. Mildred is survived by her husband, Donald; her daughters Deborah Rice-Thomas (Joe Thomas), Sabrina Rice, Diane Rice, and D. Denise Rice. She was predeceased by her daughter Angela at the tender age of 1. She also leaves her grandchildren, Brice Thomas and Donya Thomas; her sister, Alberta McLaurie, many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and her extended family of brothers and sisters from the Kingdom Hall. She was predeceased by her siblings, Pearl, Jacob, Deola, Nathaniel, Dorothy, and McKeever. The family is grateful to Sultana Razia MD, Minela Andelija RPA-C, and the staff of the Slocum-Dickson Oncology Department. While at home she was comforted by the tremendous personal assistance she received from Sandy Linen, LPN and family friend. Her neighbors Bill and Janice Powers truly extended love and courtesy to her and her husband. Members of her congregation and neighbor Jon Andrews lovingly supported Mildred during her final journey. Visitation will be held Monday from 4:00-6:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Mildred's Memorial Service which will commence on Tuesday afternoon at 2:00 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 585 Trenton Road, Utica. It will be officiated by Brother George Gray followed by procession of the funeral cortege to Forest Hill Cemetery where Interment will take place.

Mrs. Mildred (Singletary) Rice

May 12, 1935 - July 18, 2018