Marie Patricia Rice, age 101, of Du Quoin, Illinois, passed away at 8:35 P.M., Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at the Marshall Browning Hospital in Du Quoin surrounded by the love of her family and friends.  She was born on June 30, 1923, in Du Quoin, the daughter of Ottavio James and Antonina Campanella.
On September 28, 1946, Marie married the love of her life, Joe D. Rice, in their hometown of Du Quoin.  Together, they built a life centered on family, hard work, and community.  Joe preceded her in death on November 16, 2011.
Before marriage, Marie attended cosmetology school.  She and Joe operated Rice's Market for many years, serving their community with dedication and pride.  Later, she worked at Mallory, a local factory, all while helping Joe manage The Elks Perry County Country Club golf course.
Marie devoted much of her life to being a homemaker, lovingly caring for her family.  Known for her warmth and sociable spirit, she was deeply involved in many local organizations.  She was a member of the XI Eta Gamma Sorority in Du Quoin, a committed participant in the Du Quoin Auxiliary for the American Legion Post 647, and a faithful member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church.
Her friends, affectionately known as "her Girls", brought her immense joy.  Marie loved to sew, play bridge and mah-jongg, and attend any event her friends planned.  Yet, her greatest joy was always her family.  She cherished time spent at family gatherings - especially those at what she lovingly called "The Party House" - and looked forward each year to her birthday fish fry.
Marie is survived by her son, James L. Rice (the late Valerie Rice); her beloved granddaughter - Dawn Galbraith (Cale); and three adored great grandchildren - Alec, Addison, and Sydney - who were truly the apples of her eye.  She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
Marie was preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter-in-law - Valerie Rice and one brother - Carl Campanella.
Marie leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and deep devotion to family and community.  She will be dearly missed and forever remembered.
A mass of Christian Burial will be held at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, Du Quoin, IL at 2:00 P.M., Friday, May 23, 2025 with Fr. John Igwe officiating.
Interment will be in Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Cemetery, Du Quoin, IL on Friday, May 23, 2025.
Visitation will be at Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin, IL from 1:00 P.M. until 1:50 P.M. on Friday, May 23, 2025.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church.
Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin has been entrusted with the arrangements.