Betty Jean Rice

Betty Jean Rice, our beloved sister, mother, grandmother and friend passed away on
September 14, 2023 at the age of 96 in Hemet, California.

Betty was born in Huzzah, Missouri on January 28, 1927 and lived there with her dad Zelmar, mother Ethel, and two little sisters Peggy and Bonnie. After she graduated from Cherryville High School the family moved to Blythe, California. Betty worked at Security Bank and met her future husband Johnny Rice at a local dance. They were blessed with two children Sandy and Randy.

Betty and Johnny lived in Lancaster for a few years and finally settled in Banning, where Betty was a dedicated mother to her children. She worked at JC Penney for many years and formed many long lasting friendships. After she retired, she would have lunch with her friends, the "JCPenney" girls every month. Betty belonged to the Banning Women's Club, and was a member of the Banning Methodist Church.

After Johnny passed away, Betty created a life for herself at Sunrise Mobile Home Park. She made many friends and loved going to all the social events. She loved playing bingo and enjoyed being "hostess" on Bunco night. She was the board secretary and stayed involved in all the "park" activities.

Betty was a proud supportive mother, grandmother, and sister. She made each member of her family feel special and loved. Her sense of humor and practical way of looking at life offered strength and comfort to her family.

Her legacy of love continues on in her sister Bonnie Ivey, son Randy Rice, daughter-in-law Erlinda, daughter Sandra Levinson, son-in- law Joel, granddaughters Davia, India, Jasmine, and Ashly, 12 great- grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

A service to honor Betty will be held on Friday September 29, at 2:00PM at Wiefels and Sons Mortuary in Banning.

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