Marsha Lee Rice

Marsha Rice, 64, of Idaho Falls, passed away Thursday, January 26, 2012 following an extended illness.

She was born February 25, 1947 in Rexburg, Idaho the daughter of Thomas (Bill) and Alice Stoddard.  Her childhood was spent in Island Park with her parents and two brothers, Raymond and Phillip (Kip) Stoddard at the Stoddard Lumber Mill.

She attended school in Island Park, Sugar City, and Idaho Falls.  She married the love of her life, Leonard Rice on November 4, 1964 and they raised three daughters, Lisa, Barbara, and Tiffany.

She and Leonard along with their family enjoyed many years doing outdoor activities including camping, fishing, hunting, and traveling.  Marsha had many interests including gardening, traveling and showing her 1966 GTO, but her true joy came from spending time with her grand and great grandchildren.  She loved the sport of racing and spent many weekends watching her grandsons race BMX and motor cross.

During her 15 year battle with multiple illnesses her strength and determination was an inspiration to everyone who knew her.

Marsha is survived by her husband and soul mate, Leonard of 47 years, daughters, Lisa (Joe) Branson, Barbara Nelson, and Tiffany (Shane) McDaniel, brothers, Raymond (Velda) Stoddard and Phillip “Kip” Stoddard, eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and granddaughter, Jode Branson.

We would like to thank the donor family for the gift of five more years with our mother, grandmother, sister, and wife.

Funeral services will be 12:00 noon Tuesday, January 31, 2012 at the Idaho Falls 24

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Ward Chapel (1155 East First Street) in Idaho Falls.  The family will receive friends Monday evening from 7:00 till 8:30 p.m. and Tuesday morning from 10:30 till 11:40 a.m. both at the church.  Arrangements are under the direction of Nalder Funeral Home (110 West Oak) in Shelley.