Celia May Rice

Born October 22, 1929 in Bluff Springs, Illinois to George LaFayette and Florence Elizabeth (Staley) Williams, she married Robert Eugene Rice on July 12, 1953 in Buffalo, Missouri. He died November 8, 1975 in Pekin. She was also preceded in death by her parents; two sons, Eric and Mark Rice; two infant sons, Robert, Jr. and Randy Rice; one great-grandson and seven brothers, Rev. Charles, Dale, J.W. Keith, Gary, Melvin, Francis and George Williams.

Surviving are one son, Scott Rice of South Pekin; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

A homemaker, Celia had worked at Caterpillar, Inc. in the cafeteria in East Peoria before her marriage to Robert.

She enjoyed working crossword puzzles, cooking and taking care of people. Celia had a great work ethic and a huge heart for others.

Celia attended Faith Tabernacle Pentecostal Church of God in Pekin.

Her funeral will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 29, 2021 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Pastor Chuck Grogan will officiate. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will be at Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin.

Memorial contributions may be given to Central Life Church, 1100 Hamilton Street, Pekin, Illinois 61554.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com