Mary Eugenia (Matthews) Rice

Mary Eugenia Rice, 94, of Emmitsburg, MD., died peacefully on Friday, February 2, 2018 at the Gettysburg Hospital.

Born on April 17, 1923 in Gettysburg, PA., she was the daughter of the late Francis Scott Key Matthews and Jesse (Rouzer) Matthews.

She was the loving and devoted wife of 72 years to Earl August Rice, Jr.

Gene was a graduate of Emmitsburg High School and St. Joseph’s College in Emmitsburg.  She was a life-long member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Emmitsburg, and was the church organist for many years.  She worked for a short time as a teacher at Emmitsburg High School and for many years worked in the office of the family business Matthew’s Gas Company.  She was a wonderful homemaker and mother, enjoyed gardening, playing Bridge, Solitaire, reading, spending time at the beach, and taking care of her many bird friends.  Gene loved the town of Emmitsburg and its people, she always tried to reach out to those in need sharing her unconditional love with those around her.

Surviving in addition to her husband are sons, Earl “Gus” August Rice, III and fiancée, Lois J. Seilhamer of Chambersburg, PA., and Robert “Scott” Rice and wife Maggi of Plano, TX.; daughter, Mary Ann Clever and husband Steve of Gainesville, GA.; 9 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 8, 2018 at Trinity United Methodist Church, 313 W. Main St., Emmitsburg with the Rev. Andy Peck-McClain officiating.  Burial will follow in the Blue Ridge Cemetery in Thurmont.  The family will receive friends on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the MYERS-DURBORAW FUNERAL HOME in Emmitsburg, MD.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either Trinity United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 226, Emmitsburg, MD, 21727 or to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Dr., Memphis, TN, 38105.