Mary Ellen Rice, age 81, of Spruce Pine, passed away on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at her residence.
Mrs. Rice was a member of St. Paul’s Missionary Church.
She leaves to cherish her memories, her daughter, Melissa Swinney; Grandchildren, Paxton Rice (Toshia), Kaysi Gann (Dan), Liz Hyde (Jon); Great Grandchildren, Troy Hyde, Henry Hyde, Bo Rice, Asher Rice and Emily Gann; Siblings, Lorene Pierce and Rabon Farris.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Thomas Rice; Son, Daryl Rice; Her parents Nolan and Arvilla Farris; Brothers, Kermit Farris and Kenneth Farris; Sisters, Marie Franks and Earline Jackson.
The visitation will be 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Spry Memorial Chapel.
The service will follow at 1:00pm also at Spry Memorial Chapel. Bro. John Humphries will be officiating. Burial will follow at Liberty Hill Cemetery.
The family would like to send a special thanks to Hospice of North Alabama, Kendra England and Allison for their wonderful care of Mrs. Rice.
