RICE, FLORENCE BELLIVEAU - It is with great sadness that the family of Florence Rice announce her peaceful passing in her 103rd year in Baker Brook on December 27, 2013, after a brief period of failing health. Born in Scoudouc, N.B. on March 8, 1911, she was the daughter of Phillippe Belliveau and Marie Leblanc. Florence was predeceased by her husband Martin W. Rice, her daughter, Susan, her parents, and ten siblings. Florence is survived by her daughter Margaret (Gary) Thorne, Edmundston, her son Richard Rice (Sharon Maxan) of Quispamsis, NB, grandchildren: Jason (Tracey) Thorne of Rothesay, Jennifer Thorne (Simon Gascon) of Gatineau, Qc, Danielle Rice of Saint John, and great-grandchildren: Alexandre Rice-Hoyt, Florence and Maxim Gascon, and Anna Thorne. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews. Florence received her nursing diploma in 1931 from the University of Montreal and began a 50 year-long career in the nursing profession, practising in Montreal, New York, Moncton, and Edmundston. After retiring from the Hotel-Dieu Edmundston Hospital as head nurse of the surgical unit in 1976, she continued working for another 5 years as a night supervisor at Foyer Saint Joseph, completing her nursing career at age 70. She had a natural curiosity, was an avid reader and a lover of all things Royal. She exemplified life-long learning: until the very end she read her monthly magazines, and her daily newspaper. She also enjoyed travelling. Above all, Florence's greatest love was her family who fondly called her Mimi. She always kept up with her children, grand-children and great-grand-children's lives. The family extends their sincere thanks to all the angels of Foyer Ste. Elizabeth, Baker Brook, NB for the excellent care provided to our mother.
Arrangements are under the care of JB Cote & Fils Funeral Home, 160 rue de L'Eglise, Edmundston, NB E3V 1K2 (735-8435). Visitations will be held on Monday, December 30, 2013 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm, Tuesday, December 31, 2013 from 9:00 to 10:30am. The funeral service will follow immediately at 11:00am from the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Edmundston. Internment will take place at a later date. Donations in Florence's memory may be made to Foyer Ste. Elizabeth or the charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences may be placed at www.jbcote.com.