Elizabeth Marie "Betty" Rice

Elizabeth Marie Rice (Betty) was born on August 16, 1929, in Canton, Ohio. She passed away on June 1, 2025. Betty was the daughter of Bruno and Anna Chirumbolo, and the second youngest of sixteen siblings. She lived in Phoenix, Arizona, in the same home for over 50 years.

She is preceded in death by her husband, James Rice Sr., and her second son, Tim Rice. She is survived and will be deeply missed by her first son, James Rice II (Nancy Smak), and her grandson, James Marcus Rice III (Victoria Adams). They were the joys of her life. Betty spoke with her son James almost every day and always looked forward to their conversations. She adored her grandson Marcus and would light up whenever she saw him.

She is also survived by her younger brother Frank and his family. Betty cherished the time she spent with her extended family, including her niece, Jackie Adams; nephews Frank Chirumbolo (Laura) and Tony Chirumbolo (Tracy); and great-nephew Dan Veno (Chris), along with their families.

At the time of her passing, Betty was in a loving relationship of over 43 years with William Morris (Bill). Together, they traveled extensively, enjoyed meals out, visited military bases and local casinos. Betty often had luck on her side and regularly won at the slot machines. She and Bill were devoted fans of the Phoenix Suns, holding season tickets and attending all the home games. Betty was an avid collector of Suns memorabilia. She and Bill were inseparable, and he was by her side when she passed.

Betty will be remembered and missed by all who knew her.

She was a longtime volunteer with the Disabled American Veterans and was honored as Volunteer of the Year for her dedication. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Disabled American Veterans in her memory.