Thelma Margaret Rice

Thelma Margaret Rice, 99, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family in her final days. She was the heart of her family, known for her unwavering love, kindness, and devotion to those she held dear.

A devout Catholic, Thelma was a longtime member of St. Ann’s Confraternity and St. Brigid’s Church, where her faith guided her life. She found joy in the simple moments—spending time with her family, cheering on the Louisville Cardinals and Chicago Cubs, and testing her luck at the slot machines. Fiercely competitive when it came to playing cards, she was always ready for a good game and a great laugh. But more than anything, Thelma was known for her quick wit and infectious sense of humor. Whether through a clever remark, a funny story, or an unexpected joke, she had a gift for making people laugh and bringing joy to any room she entered.

Thelma is preceded in death by her beloved husband, William E. Rice, Jr.; her son, David Allen Bensing; and her great-granddaughter, Emily Rae Vittitow.

Her memory will be forever cherished by her loving daughters, Bonnie Eckert (Martin), Carolyn Strothman (Steve), and daughter-in-law Donna Bensing. Her devoted sons, Bill Rice (Betty), Tom Bensing (Linda), and John Rice (Sandy). She was a proud and caring grandmother, leaving behind a legacy of love through her 12 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

Thelma’s love, laughter, and wisdom will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is reunited with those who went before her, watching over them with the same warmth and devotion she gave in life.

Visitation will be held on Monday, February 24, 2025, at Arch L. Heady and Son Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 7410 Westport Rd, Louisville, KY 40222. Family visitation will begin at 2:00 PM ET, followed by public visitation from 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM ET.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Brigid's Catholic Church, 1520 Hepburn Ave, Louisville, KY 40204, on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at 10 am ET, with burial to follow at Zachary Taylor National Cemetery. To honor Thelma's wishes, we ask that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mass of the Air. Contributions can be made online at https://massoftheair.com/donate.php or by visiting https://www.archlou.org/services-directory/mass-of-the-air/