Mary Beth Garrett Rice

Mary Beth Rice, age 68 of Cornelia, Georgia took her last breath on earth, January 22, 2024, in her home surrounded by friends, family, pets, and flowers. It was through a personal relationship with God and trust in the Scriptures that she was able to endure many challenges, and in the end, face a courageous battle with a reoccurring cancer.

Mary Beth was born on August 27, 1955 in Medina, Ohio to Nicholas and Dorothie Garrett, the youngest of four children. Though raised in South Florida, she loved the family vacations in the mountains of Western North Carolina. It was there she met and married Robert (Bob) Rice in Highlands April 28, 1984.

Prior to her personal and family health challenges, Mary Beth used her skills in a variety of managerial positions, the last being a Regional Vice President with David Wood Personnel.

Though she knew that good works and service does not guarantee a way into heaven, it was her love for Jesus that motivated her to help others. Mary Beth was active in a variety of churches, neighborhoods, Bible studies, community ministries, and mission trips to Peru and other countries. She initiated and funded the “Free Coffee” outreach ministry at CUMC.

She loved traveling and exploring various RV & historical parks with Bob before his death in 2021. They both enjoyed a wide variety of hobbies and interests. They volunteered in the local VFW Post 7720, and together they served in the local NOMADS ministry. Mary Beth led a NAMI chapter, volunteered with the local hospital auxiliary, and was honored as an ambassador for the Habersham Chamber. She desired to be used of God, and was grateful for the opportunities she was given. She was so very thankful for the family and friends who helped her and prayed her through the hard times.

Mary Beth is survived by her son Ninian (Ian) Bond; step children, Jodi and Shannon Rice; sisters Kathie Garrett Pieper and Susan McGowan; and brother David Garrett.

A Celebration of Life service will be live streamed and held on April 27th, at 11:00 am, followed by a reception at the Cornelia United Methodist Church, 275 Wyly Street, Cornelia, GA 30531. Mary Beth’s remains are interred at the VFW Memorial Park Cemetery.  

Memorials may be made in memory of Mary Beth Rice to the following: VFW Auxiliary, c/o Grant Reeves VFW Post # 7720 at 174 Cornelia Crossing Shopping Center Cornelia, GA 30531; NAMI Gwinnett, www.namigwinnett.org; or to Cornelia United Methodist Church.

Arrangements are in the care and professional direction of Hillside Memorial Chapel and Gardens of Clarkesville.  (706) 754-6256

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