Jeanne Katherine Rice

Jeanne Katherine (Zagzoug) Rice, of Sudbury, passed away peacefully in Cocoa Beach, FL. on February 8, 2026. She was 79.

Known for her sweet nature, joyous spirit, and boundless generosity, Jeanne centered her life on her family and friends and was a cherished and radiant presence in her community.

She leaves behind her beloved husband of 58 years, Charles “Charlie” Rice; her loving children, Nicole Rice, Chuck Rice and his wife Jodi, and Annie Rice; and her treasured grandchildren, John Rice and Giana Rice.

Jeanne was born in Boston, Massachusetts in 1946 to Assad "Arthur" Zagzoug and Lorraine "Hilda" (Travis) Zagzoug and graduated from Lexington High School. Jeanne was preceded in death by her beloved parents, and her siblings Arthur "Mickey" Zagzoug, Anthony "Tony" Zagzoug and most recently by her sister Judith Zagzoug. She is survived by her loving sister Janis as well as countless nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jeanne devoted herself to creating joy for her family and friends. She made her house the home everyone wanted to gather in – warm, welcoming, and filled with love. No one ever left Jeanne’s home hungry. She was an exceptional baker and cook, famous for her banana and pumpkin breads, her cookies, and her chocolate cake. In the summer, she would pick fresh eggplant from Charlie’s garden and make what her family insists was the best eggplant parmesan in the world.

Charlie filled their yard with hundreds of flowers each summer, and Jeanne lovingly arranged them in vases throughout the house, bringing beauty and light into every room. She brightened everything she touched. Holidays were spent putting together “Goodie Plates” for family and friends. Jeanne had a special and enduring love for her many friends. She has gotten together with her grammar school and high school friends regularly for past decades, sharing in life’s trials and tribulations. People were drawn to her warmth, her kindness, and her genuine interest in others.

Above all, Jeanne adored her husband, Charlie. Their love story spanned nearly six decades. They traveled the world together – including trips to Kenya, South Africa, Europe, Croatia, and Alaska – and found joy in both grand adventures and life’s simple pleasures. They were devoted companions, whether watching Red Sox and Patriots games side by side, sitting by the pool reading and swimming, or simply enjoying the quiet comfort of being together.

Jeanne’s love, generosity, beauty, and joyful spirit will live on in the family she nurtured, the friends she treasured, and the countless lives she touched. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, devotion, and grace that will never be forgotten. We will miss you Jeanne.

A Memorial Gathering will be held in the Duckett - J.S. Waterman & Sons Home of Memorial Tribute, 656 Boston Post Road (Rt. 20), SUDBURY on Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 3 - 5PM. A Funeral Service will follow at 5 o'clock in the Funeral Home.