ESTHER RAY RICE

Esther Ray Wilson Rice was born January 07, 1952, in Farmersville, TX to Joseph Wilson and

Catherine Hannah Wilson, both who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her oldest

brother James Earl Wilson (Annie).

Esther graduated from North Grand Prairie, and she also received her Secretary Certificate from Drome

Business School. Following attending Drome, she graduated with a degree in Theology from Southern

Bible Institute.

Esther met Samuel Rice of Texarkana, AR in 1972 later married in 1978. God blessed them with 44 years

of marriage. She was employed with Southwestern Bell for 33 years before her retirement.

She was an active member of Judea Missionary Baptist Church, Dallas, TX under the leadership of Pastor

Ryan Range Sr. She served faithfully until her health began to fail. In the 1980’s she became the first

church secretary, former Sunday school teacher (women’s class), vacation bible school teacher, choir

president and deaconess.

Esther leaves to cherish her memories: devoted husband Samuel Rice, of Dallas, TX; Only Sister, Georgia

Carol King of Dallas, TX; three brothers, Bobby Wilson of Dallas, TX, Barry Wilson (Retha) of Houston,

TX, and Benji Wilson (Linda) of Venice, TX. Ten nieces, Wanda, Sherrill, Katrina, Rachel, Rene`, Mary-

Catherine; Josette, Lasonya, Janear, and Angela; Five nephews, Kyle, Wade, Jason, Bryson, and Ralph III;

a host of loving great nieces and nephews, cousins’ other relatives and friends who loved her dearly and the

Judea Missionary Baptist Church Family.