May 22, 1947 - July 16, 2021
Diana Lynn Rice was born May 22, 1947 in Portland, Ore. to John and Lillian Boyle. Diana and her sister Shannon were raised on Willamette Boulevard, right across from the University of Portland. Diana would often speak of how much she loved the grounds, and the house she grew up in, with all the happy memories. She shared a love of camping with her family, especially on the the Metolius River. She also loved her time spent in Clatskanie. She would roam the woods during the summer, sometimes with friends or family, but often alone - Diana loved the solitude. In her youth, Diana was an avid sportsperson and an adventure-seeker. Diana might be found trying to ride a bull or jumping on a neighbor's new horse before it was tamed. She never turned down an adventure that crossed her path.
After high school, she married Robert Rice and entered into a medical assistant training program. She went on to work as a medical assistant before she and Robert settled down to start a life and raise a family. Robert and Diana had two boys, Matthew and Joshua. Diana took pride in her husband's career and in her children and their schooling. She selflessly and tirelessly devoted herself to assisting her family with anything they needed to succeed.
She could create Christmas magic or a culinary masterpiece. She was a woman of many talents, versatile and creative. She found time for her other interests, like music, and she filled her home with music and laughter. She also enjoyed architecture and interior design. She understood that art could be something more than a piece hanging on the wall. Art was something a person could surround themselves with - they could live in it. She found joy spending time in her beloved Yachats, Ore. She brought joy with her where ever she went, lighting up any room she entered, and lightening the load of those around her. She followed her dreams of writing. She also inspired those around her to follow their dreams. She flew free, but never left anyone on the ground. She was fearless, brave, empathetic, kind, and true, all though her life, up until the end as she fought for her life. She passed away after a struggle with a long illness, on July 16, 2021. She fought until the end with grace and courage, and even though she is still with us, she will be missed.
She is survived by her husband; her children; her sister; and her beloved family and friends.
FAMILY
Robert John RiceSpouse
Matthew RiceSon
Joshua RiceSon
Shannon BensonSister
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