Elizabeth Clark Rice

Elizabeth Rice Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Family-Funeral & Cremation - Pensacola on May 12, 2026.

Elizabeth Clark Rice, born Ruth Elizabeth Clark, passed away on May 1, 2026, at the age of 81. She was a devoted and beloved wife, loving mother, cherished sister, loyal friend, and dedicated educator whose kindness, selflessness, and quiet strength touched all who knew her.

Elizabeth was born on August 14, 1942, in Charleston, WV. She graduated from Charleston High School in 1962 and earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Charleston in 1967, where she was a member of the Phi Kappa chapter of Alpha Omicron Pi. She later earned a master's degree in Speech Therapy from Marshall University and a master's degree in Library Science from Longwood University.

Elizabeth devoted much of her life to education. She began her career teaching English in the Charleston area, sharing with her students a love of language, literature, and learning. In 1988, she and her family moved to Appomattox, Virginia, where she continued that lifelong passion by becoming the librarian at Appomattox County High School. In 1999, the family moved to Powhatan, where she served as librarian at Powhatan County High School. She was nominated for Teacher of the Year in 2003 and was adored by generations of students for her dedication, warmth, and steady encouragement.

In retirement, Elizabeth continued to give generously of herself. She trained her cherished dog, Zeeka, to become a therapy dog, and together they visited local prisons and hospitals, bringing comfort, companionship, and moments of joy to those who needed them. A dedicated gardener and nature lover, she became a Master Gardener through the Goochland-Powhatan Master Gardener Association and contributed to local planting and beautification projects. An avid reader, she also formed a book club in Powhatan and hosted meetings in her home. The book club continues to meet today, reflecting the community and friendship she helped create.

Elizabeth was married to Gordon Rice for 55 years. She was a loving mother to her children, Laura and Leland, and a devoted friend to many, especially her sister, Carol. She had a sweet smile, a gentle spirit, and a deep affection for people and animals. Though small in stature and soft-spoken in manner, she was remarkably tough, meeting life's challenges with quiet determination and grace.

For the last eight years, Elizabeth faced cancer with extraordinary resilience. She endured much, but she never complained. Her strength was not loud or dramatic; it was steady, humble, and deeply inspiring to those who loved her.

Elizabeth is survived by her husband, Gordon Rice; her children, Laura Rice and Leland Rice; her sister, Carol "Dody" Simpson; her daughter-in-law, Claire Rice; and her adored grandchildren, Amelia and James Rice. She was preceded in death by her father, Frank Clark; her mother, Ruth Clark; and her brother, Dr. Kenneth Clark.

A celebration of Elizabeth's life is being planned and will be held in Powhatan, Virginia. Details will be shared at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Henrico Humane Society.