Alice Ella Farmer Rice, 76, of Thompson’s Station, passed away Feb. 25, 2024, at her residence, surrounded by her family.
Alice was born Oct. 25, 1947, in Sparta, to Denys and Bernice Ethyl O’Connor Farmer.
Alice was “Mom” to many family, friends, and even strangers. A natural caregiver to both animals and humans, she adored children the most. She loved to laugh and found joy in a good book, story, or movie. As an amazing cook, Alice enjoyed bonding with others over a meal. She was a woman of many talents and interests - a wonderful chalk/watercolor artist, running track in high school, modeling for a department store. In fact, Alice was one of the earliest CRT users, helping implement a new order tracking system in the 70s. In the 80s, she spent a majority of her time at the Tennessee Game Farm caring for animals, doing feeds, meds, and birth assistance, to making burgers and selling handmade crafts in the gift shop. These were some of her most favorite times. Alice leaves her strong and vivacious spirit with us.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Rice, who died Dec. 26, 2002; sisters, Peggy Sue Farmer, Patricia Ann Grayson; and her brothers, James Paul and Denys Wayne Farmer.
Survivors include her daughter, Andrea Rice Zalewski (Aaron); nieces and nephews, Donald Lee Haston (Kelley), Darrell Gene Haston (Jamie), Delicia Kay Null (Bruce), Carolee Haston, Clay Graham Steakley (Erica), Demita Leigh Sweeton (Jonathan), Denys “Mac” Farmer (Violet), LiaLynn Farmer.
In honor of Alice’s wishes, Hunter Funeral Home has been entrusted with her cremation, and a memorial service will be conducted at 3 p.m., March 9, 2024, at the funeral home. The family will receive friends 1-3 p.m., March 9, at the funeral home.
Hunter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements
