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Vivienne and Gordon Hanson
Arlene shared the privilege with us of being in-laws to Giles and Cynthia respectively. How can we ever forget her stay with us in France for their wedding celebration where she was completely undaunted by language and cultural differences despite this being her first trip outside the States. On a visit to London, Arlene joined us (dressed in full Lycra!) at a Mama Mia spectacle where she made an unfortgetable impression on everyone in our party. We shall miss her positivity and sense of fun. She leaves behind two wonderful and extremely special daughters of whom she was rightly, immensely proud.
Lori Kennedy
Karen Rice Shimansky
RIP Aunt Arlene, joining Uncle Larry at rest. She was always a sweet and loving soul. My condolences and prayers to Cynthia & Colleen and family 💔🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼🙏🏼
Mirjana (Mare)
Arlene Rice more affectionately known as my dear Mamma Rice was foundational in my life as my second mom. She was a rock for so many of us who would always have a unique perspective to help you get through a challenging hurdle. More often than not it was a simple reassurance that we are built for challenging times and the human spirit (with a good dose of faith) could survive challenges. As many people know, her service to others was a true gift. Mamma, you will be deeply missed, but the love you shared with us is a foundation that is unshakable, so you continue to live on in each of us lucky to have experienced you on many levels. I will forever love you with all my heart!
Arlene Rice
2025-11-18
Arlene Rice, 89, of Fernandina Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025.
Arlene was born on February 25, 1936, in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, the fifth eldest of fourteen children. After her mother passed suddenly in 1951, Arlene helped care for her younger siblings, where she established a reputation for selfless service to others and a spirit of care and kindness that continued throughout her life.
In 1967, she married the love of her life Larry Rice. They raised family in a fun and loving home, gathering many friends where her door was always open and a pot of coffee was always percolating. If she saw someone in need, she would do whatever she could do to help. Be it driving them about, giving advice, a big hug, or supplying a much-needed warm coat, nothing was too much for her to help another.
In 2011, she moved to the warmth of Florida and began a second chapter as “Florida Arlene”, where she developed a taste for sunshine, seafood, the good life, and made multiple new friends. Here, she became an active member of the Newcomers’ Club, the Amelia Island Boules Club, and various book clubs. Her spirit of service continued in large and small ways, regularly driving her friends to doctor appointments and volunteering with Baptist Medical Auxiliary (Nassau) where she earned the nickname “Sunshine” because of her radiant personality.
A loving mother, a devoted friend, and a great storyteller with a whip and smart sense of humor, Arlene is preceded in death by her loving husband, Lawrence (Larry), and is survived by her two cherished daughters Colleen (John Hodge) and Cynthia (Giles Hanson), and countless relatives and friends who comprise her extended, loving family.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Michael Catholic Church on Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at 11AM, reception to follow.
Rather than flowers, please consider a donation to Joy To The Children on the website joytothechildren.org/give-donations
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