Carol Elaine Vigil

Carol Elaine Rice Vigil, 70, passed away on August 10, 2026, at St. Mary Medical Center in Apple Valley, California, with her sons and their wives lovingly by her bedside. She was born on April 27, 1956, in Apple Valley to John and Beatrice Rice, both of whom preceded her in death.

Carol spent much of her life in Barstow, California, while also spending a portion of her adult years in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In her younger years, she worked as a medical transcriptionist.

Carol was a deep thinker with a natural curiosity about the world around her. She loved reading, listening to music, learning new things, and trying new foods. She had a caring heart and was always looking for someone who might be struggling or less fortunate and finding a way to help. Her generosity and desire to care for others were an important part of who she was.

Above all, Carol deeply loved her family. She is survived by her two sons, Jonathan Josiah Rice and his wife, Tawnie Rice, and Jordan Joseph Rice and his wife, Lanelle Rice. She was a loving grandmother to her two grandchildren, Sonny and Stormie Rice, who held a very special place in her heart.

Carol is also survived by her three sisters, Diane Ward, Karen Blake, and Sarah Kelly, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

During the final year of her life, Carol experienced a meaningful deepening of her faith. She continued to grow spiritually and seek a closer relationship with God, bringing an important sense of faith and reflection to the final chapter of her life.

Carol will be remembered for her thoughtful nature, her love of learning, her generosity toward others, and the love she had for her family. Her life was marked by curiosity, compassion, and a willingness to notice those around her who needed a helping hand.

Her memory will continue to live on through her children, grandchildren, sisters, extended family, and all those who were fortunate enough to know and love her.