Suzanne Anderson Rice
1933 – 2024
Suzanne Anderson Rice, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and beacon of warmth in her community, passed away peacefully from natural causes on January 5, 2024, in Ogden, Utah, at the age of 90. Born on November 9, 1933, in Lewiston, Utah, to Alvin Wilford Anderson and Ella Kemp Anderson, Suzanne’s life was marked by her nurturing spirit and love for her family.
A proud graduate of Ogden High School class of 1952, Suzanne’s zest for learning continued as she pursued a career in beauty, graduating from All American Beauty Culture Schools in 1953. She began her career as a beautician, a role that allowed her to touch the lives of many with her talent and kindness. Suzanne’s life journey saw her balance her professional ambitions with her devotion to family, marrying Carl Pont in 1955, with whom she had two beloved children, Dianne Marie and Alan Anderson. Though their union later ended in divorce, Suzanne’s capacity for love remained undiminished, and she found companionship and joy with Kirby Miles Rice, with whom she had two more children, David Glen and Karan Ilene.
Suzanne’s professional path was as varied as it was fulfilling. When her eldest son embarked on a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she re-entered the workforce, first at Ogden Desk and Office Supply, and later at Ogden Beauty Supply Company, where she rose to become the manager of the Five Points Ogden store. Her dedication to her work was matched only by her commitment to her community, as she later volunteered at Ogden Regional Hospital, bringing smiles to many faces in the gift shop.
Her role as a mother was paralleled by her service with the Boy Scouts of America where she trained Scout leaders and was honored with numerous awards for her service. She also filled the callings of Stake Camp Director and 2nd counselor in the young women’s program for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in her home stake in North Ogden. Suzanne’s love for the outdoors was infectious; she spent countless days and nights camping, hiking, and fishing. Memories of summers spent at Flaming Gorge Dam and Bear Lake with her family remain etched in the hearts of her children.
An accomplished singer, published poet, and aspiring guitarist, Suzanne’s creative talents were a source of joy and inspiration. Her love of books was lifelong, and she could often be found immersed in a good novel or the scriptures which she enjoyed studying often. Suzanne was an exceptional cook, known for her homemade candies, a skill she learned from her aunt in Lewiston. Her gardens flourished under her care, and her homemade bread, preserves, and famous zucchini bread were staples in the lives of those she loved.
Suzanne leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with her family, including her children Dianne, Alan, David, and Karan, and her grandchildren Brandon, Letitia, Shannon, Alaina, Bridget, Jacob, and Lucille, in addition to her three beloved great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her brother, Edward Kemp Anderson and his wife and her dear friend Floris.
Her passing is a profound loss to all who knew her, yet her spirit lives on in the stories shared, the lessons and skills taught, and the love she gave freely. Suzanne’s life was a tapestry of compassion, resilience, and enduring love-a life well-lived and a woman well-loved. Her memory will be held dear, a comforting presence that continues to guide and inspire even as she rests in peace.
Services will be held at Leavitt’s Mortuary & Aultorest Memorial Park 836 36th Street, Ogden, UT on Wednesday January 10th at 1:00 pm.
Condolences may be shared with the family at www.leavittsmortuary.com.