Alma Rice

Garner - Alma Edwards Rice, 92, went peacefully home to her Heavenly Father, surrounded by loving family, on Wednesday July 27, 2021. A native of Franklin County she was born May 27, 1929 to the late Charles and Magnolia Edwards. A 1947 graduate of Edward Best High School, Alma married Weldon Rice in 1948. Along with her cousin Jewel, she moved to Raleigh in 1954 while Weldon was deployed to Germany with the Army. She retired after a 38 year career with the state of North Carolina, Department of Revenue. Alma was a long-time member of Highland Baptist Church where she served on various committees, established some of her dearest friendships, and touched the lives of countless young families. She enjoyed gardening and collecting antiques. Most of all, she loved her family dearly and treasured multiple generations. She is survived by Weldon Rice, her husband of 72 years; daughter Pamela (Pam) Rice Upchurch and husband Jeff of Yorktown, VA; grandsons, Justin D. Upchurch and wife Vanna of Yorktown, VA; Maj Matthew E. Upchurch and wife Tricia of Germany; and great-grandsons, Thomas (9), David (7), Aaron (5) Upchurch of Yorktown, VA and great-granddaughter Abigail (3 mo) of Germany. The family wishes to express their appreciation to various special friends for their care and concern during this time. Gratefulness is also extended to WakeMed in Garner and Raleigh, Cadence Senior Living Garner, and Transitions LifeCare Hospice. A celebration of life service will be held 1:00 on Saturday, July 31, 2021 at Highland Baptist Church. The family will receive friends at the church from 12:00-12:45 pm prior to the service. A private internment will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Highland Baptist Church, 8524 Crowder Road, Raleigh, NC 27603 or to Transitions LifeCare, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607.