Judith Anne Rice

It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Judy Rice, a devoted mother and loving wife who left us on October 28, 2025, due to complications from Alzheimer’s. Her family, friends, and all who knew her are mourning the loss of a woman whose larger-than-life personality could fill any room with energy, laughter, and joy.

Judy was known for her quick wit, always ready with a perfectly timed remark that left everyone in stitches. Her humor was her gift to those around her, brightening every occasion with a reminder not to take life too seriously.

Glittering jewelry, vivid colors and festive accessories were expressions of her vibrant spirit. She loved nothing more than donning a dazzling ensemble, transforming every affair into a celebration. Whether hosting a holiday gathering or attending a themed event, she was always the life of the party, captivating everyone’s attention with her charismatic presence and infectious laughter.

Born as Judith Anne Allen in Portland, Oregon, Judy was the beloved daughter of Lois Mower and Jack Allen. She grew up in Portland where she attended Fernwood Grade School and Grant High School, graduating in1957. She went on to University of Oregon where she studied pre nursing for two years and met her future husband. She joined the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority where she made life-long friends. She left University of Oregon to attend the Weaver Airline Personnel School in Kansas City, Missouri where she was selected to become an Immigration Hostess at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

Judy married the love of her life, Jim Rice, while he was in the Army, and in 1961 gave birth to their first child, Sherry, while living in Geneva, New York. The family then moved to Eugene, Oregon where Judy gave birth to their second child, Sandy, while Jim attended school to get his master’s degree. A couple of years later, they returned to Portland where Judy gave birth to their third child, Linda, in 1967. They remained in Portland, in the Laurelhurst neighborhood where they raised their three girls, until they moved to a retirement community in 2017.

Judy was the heart of the family. As a mother, she was fiercely supportive and involved in every activity. Her family was her greatest pride, and she gave tirelessly to care for them. She was a room-mother and a campfire leader. She attended every swim meet, cross country race, school play and dance performance. She was always present, guiding her children with wisdom, warmth, and love. When she chose to return to work, she took a job with Jostens, selling class rings and graduation accessories in the schools. And later, she worked for Jewels by Park Lane, conducting in-home “jewelry parties” that allowed her to set her own hours so she could remain available for her family. As a wife, she was a devoted partner—taking on the role of coach’s wife with her usual enthusiasm and support. Her marriage was marked by loyalty, affection, and a sense of adventure that reached new heights when the couple began to travel internationally once Jim retired in 1993. They spent months on end visiting different regions of the world, from France and Germany, to Turkey, Greece and Croatia. A trip of special significance for Judy was a visit to Russia, the birthplace of her father.

Judy leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. She is survived by her spouse of nearly 65 years, James R. Rice, her children, Sherry Rice, Sandy Rice, Linda Rice Flury, and Linda's husband, Rick Flury; her brother Richard Allen and her sister Mary Allen McLean. She was preceded in death by her grandson, Jonah Flury.

A memorial service will be held at 1:30pm on Thursday, November 13 at MorningStar of Happy Valley, 14391 SE Princeton Village Way in Clackamas, Oregon 97015.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever celebrated.

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