Mildred Catherine “Goodrid” Rice, a cherished and vibrant soul, passed away on August 20, 2025, in Wheatland, Indiana, at the age of 84. Born on July 30, 1941, in Washington, Indiana, Mildred was a pillar of love and creativity to all who knew her.
A woman of deep faith, Mildred was a long-standing member of the Our Lady of Hope Catholic Church and served with dedication in the Women’s Catholic League in Washington. Her commitment to her faith was ever-present and guided her through life’s many chapters.
Mildred was a lifelong learner. Though her formal education culminated in some college after high school, she never stopped seeking knowledge and engaging with the world around her. Her career was diversified and full of meaning; she retired from Crane and continued to serve her community as the Town Clerk of Wheatland until her passing.
In her personal life, Mildred knew both love and loss. She married her first husband, Donald French, in January 1963. She found love again with her second husband, David Rice, whom she married in October 1989.
Mildred’s legacy lives on through her devoted children, Mary “Katie” Catherine Davis (Randy) and Rosemarie “Mimi” Murray (Larry), her caring brother, George Ronald Goodrid (Diana Jane), and a lineage that includes numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, and many cousins. Her family, who were all her pride and joy, will remember her with great fondness.
Mildred adored her cats, Callie, Zander, and Fancy, who brought her companionship and joy. They were not mere pets but members of her family, often found basking in her love and curled up beside her at every moment.
Her creative spirit will be missed by all, as she was an artist at heart. Mildred had a passion for reading, sewing, crocheting, and the delicate care of her flower gardens. Her hands were rarely still as she created crafts, painted beautiful scenes, and composed touching poetry. Each creation was a testament to her belief in the beauty of expression and the joy of sharing with others.
Preceded in death by her parents, George and Rose “Delaney” Goodrid, her son David French, and daughter Sarah, and her husbands Donald French and David Rice, Mildred’s passing marks the end of an era for her family and friends. Yet, her memory and influence will continue to resonate. She was a loving, creative soul who left a mark, a life story written through acts of kindness, the warmth of her spirit, and the beauty she created and left behind in the world.
A life well-lived and a woman well-loved, Mildred Catherine Rice’s story will continue in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. As we say goodbye, we take solace in the imprints of her love, knowing she is now at peace.
There will be a visitation on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Fredrick and Son-Gill Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at 11:00 am at Our Lady of Hope Catholic Church, officiated by Father Clint Johnson. Memorial contributions may be made to the Corning Irish Heritage Center. Online condolences may be made at www.fredrickandson.com. Fredrick and Son-Gill Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with Mrs. Rice’s arrangements.
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