Mary A. (Begley) Rice, 74 of Franklin and formerly of Ledyard, Connecticut, died July 19 at her home following a long battle with cancer. She was the beloved wife of Leo F. Rice, Sr.
Born in Boston, October 12, 1935, the daughter of the late James and Helen (Brady) Begley, Mary grew up in Dorchester. She moved to Connecticut with her husband Leo after they married in 1958 and they raised their family in Gales Ferry, Connecticut. She taught 7th grade English in Ledyard Jr. High. For years after her retirement she received cards and letters from former students whose lives she had touched.
In 1998 Mary and Leo moved to Franklin to be close to their children and grandchildren.
Mary was a graduate of Emmanuel College and also received a Master Degree from Southern Connecticut University.
After her family, Mary best loved reading and the Red Sox.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children, Suzanne R. Sayward and her husband Kevin of Franklin, Leo F. Rice Jr., and his wife Deb of Easton and Kelley Rice of Franklin.
She also leaves six wonderful grandchildren, Zachary and Mackenzie Sayward, Connor, Megan and Kelan Rice and Alexander Quinn.
She also leaves many dear friends.
Relatives and friends are invited to her calling hours on Wednesday, July 21 from 5-8 p.m. in the Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin 131 Main St. in Franklin.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Dana Farber Mission Possible Campaign to Conquer Cancer, 10 Brookline Place West 6th floor, Brookline, MA 02445, Attn. Contribution Services.