Jessie E. Rice, of Flagstaff, Arizona, passed away on March 31, 2016. She was 96.

She was born in Camp Verde, AZ on May 31, 1919. She spent her childhood in Camp Verde and later moved to Flagstaff with her parents in 1942. Jessie was well known around Flagstaff as the best waitress in town. An avid sports fan she loved to attend all the Flagstaff High School and Northern Arizona University football and basketball games. In her early years she loved dancing at the Museum Club. Jessie was known for her fried chicken dinners. Years later she enjoyed playing Bingo at the Elks Lodge, dinners and picnics with her family, and lunches and events at the Senior Center. Jessie was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Jessie resided at Brookdale of Flagstaff where she had numerous close friends.

She is preceded in death by her Father and Mother, "Shorty" Lawrence and Irma Rice, her brothers and their wives "Tuffy" Floyd and Enid Rice, Terry and Undine Rice, her sister Ruthie Ray Hubbs and her nephew, Doug Ray. She is survived by many nieces and nephews: Deborah Rice; Sharon (Rob) Richardson; Rick (Sandra) Rice; Stephen (Heather) Rice; Ernie (Coleen) Rice; and Jim (Kathy) Rice and 35 great nieces and nephews and 16 great great nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 10am, Saturday April 9, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Lake Mary Chapel, 4165 S. Lake Mary Road, Flagstaff, with a viewing at 9am. Arrangements are by Norvel Owens Mortuary. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.norvelowensmortuary.com