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ASHLAND – Helen B. Rice, 98 of Ashland passed away Friday, April 22, 2022 at her home surrounded by her family.
She was the loving wife of George Rice (deceased) for 68 years.
Born in Medford, on September 25, 1923, she was a lifelong Ashland resident.
Helen was the cherished mother of 8 children. Michael Rice and his wife Carol of Plymouth, Gregory Rice and his wife Leslie of Medway, Sheila Sbano and her husband Vincent of Westwood, Peter Rice and his wife Janet of Bridgton, ME, Maureen Gallagher and her husband David of Lunenburg, John Rice of Ashland, Paul Rice and his wife Julia of Uxbridge, and Barbara Casey and her husband Jerry of Shrewsbury. She was the loving grandmother of 21 and the great grandmother of 33. She is survived by sisters Lorraine Stucchi and Barbara Cotter.
Helen led an active life filled with family events. She never missed a sporting event at Ashland High including cooking an entire Thanksgiving meal ahead and keeping it warm so everyone could enjoy a hot meal at the games end. She never complained, and cheerfully raised her family of 8 leading by example. She was a great listener, a good cook and a funny storyteller with a comforting nature and a kind disposition.
She loved spending weekends and vacations at her summer home on Long Lake in Maine. She rose early to read, often accompanied by a grandchild on the porch.
We were all proud to introduce her to our friends as she was always welcoming and gracious. Her love extended far and wide and sustained her long and lovely life.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Mon. May 2 at 9 a.m. in St. Cecilia’s Parish, 54 Esty Street in Ashland with burial to follow in Wildwood Cemetery in Ashland.
Visiting hours will be held Sunday from 4 to6 p.m. in the Matarese Funeral Home, 325 Main Street in Ashland, MA.
Donations in Helen’s name may be made to the American Red Cross, PO Box 37839, Boone, IA 50037-0839
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Chesmore Funeral Home 
McCarthy McKinney Lawler Funeral Home