Elizabeth Inez Rice, 98, of Medford died Wednesday May 9, 2007 at her home at Waterford Suites.
Elizabeth was born on June 10, 1908 to Inez and George Rice. She grew up in Drain, Ore., and then attended SOC in Ashland where she earned her teaching degree.
Elizabeth was a friendly person who always had time to make new friends. She had a long history of helping people who were less fortunate.
Elizabeth was an elementary school teacher in Medford for nearly 25 years. She remained ever so proud of her students. Upon hearing of a former students' success, Elizabeth would proudly retort "that was one of mine". All of you remained in her heart.
She passionately loved dogs, (Max, Heather, Shana, Mitzi, and Charlie) She had a great love of nature, music, cooking, cars and most of all traveling. She was always willing to travel at the drop of a hat.
She was a member of University Women and The Medford garden club.
In her later years she was still making friends and contributing to the lives of those around her. She was grateful for her companion caregivers, Rene, Suzi, and Ruth, whose help allowed her to stay active. She was joyfully committed to weekly country rides and restaurant stops around Jackson County from Mount Ashland and Lithia Park and all along the Rogue River to Grants Pass as well as yearly trips to the Oregon Coast. She enjoyed touring the valley and observing the changes of all the housing and professional development.
Elizabeth for the past two years worked out weekly with a private fitness trainer to maintain her strength and balance. This allowed her to stay as independent as possible so she could continue to enjoy her drives around the valley several times a week. She looked forward to work-outs.
She truly enjoyed her life.
She was preceded in death by her sister Ann Georgia Rice.
Funeral arrangements are set for Monday May 14, 2007 at Hillcrest Memorial. Viewing will be from 2:00-3:30 p.m. and a chapel service to follow at 3:30 p.m.