Marie Morgan Rice

Marie Morgan Rice passed peacefully into eternal rest on July 15, 2026, at the remarkable age of 100—a milestone few are blessed to reach and one she carried with grace, dignity, and unwavering strength.

Born on March 11, 1926, to the late Effie McDaris Morgan and Frank W. Morgan Sr., Marie lived a century filled with purpose, devotion, and countless cherished memories. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 50 years, Robert J. Rice, whose love and companionship remained forever in her heart.

Marie enjoyed a remarkable 60-year career with Belk as a buyer in women’s fashion. She loved her profession as it allowed her to travel extensively and experience the world. Her work was not merely a career but a lifelong calling that she pursued with enthusiasm, elegance, and excellence. In her spare time, she enjoyed working in her yard, traveling and spending time with her family “Up Home”.

Beyond her accomplishments, Marie was long time member of First Baptist Church in Matthews, NC and will be remembered for her warmth, independence, sharp wit, and genuine appreciation for life's simple joys. She treasured family, valued lifelong friendships, and possessed a quiet strength that inspired all who knew her. Among her most treasured relationships was the enduring friendship she shared with her dear friend, Anne Wylie (Walter).

She is survived by her loving sister, Jannette Fisher (Jerald).

Preceded in death by her brothers and sisters, Wayne Morgan, Leonard Morgan, Coy Morgan (Hattie), Dr. Joe Morgan, Dr. Monroe T. Morgan (Shirley), Frank Morgan Jr. (Martha), Evelyn Morgan, Myrtle Paulson (Roy), Ruth Peoples (Jack).

Marie was blessed with many nieces and nephews: Doris Murry, Sandy Morgan, David Morgan, Russell Morgan, Steve Morgan, Doug Morgan, Debbie Little, Selena Elmore, Mark Morgan, Marcus Morgan, Monte Morgan, Annette Fisher, Dewayne Fisher, along with a host of beloved great and great, great nieces and nephews.

For one hundred wonderful years, Marie touched lives through her kindness, resilience, and steadfast love. While her family grieves her absence, they also celebrate a life extraordinarily well lived. A life that leaves behind a legacy of devotion, perseverance, and cherished memories that will continue to inspire generations to come.

A private family service will be held at Mars Hill Baptist Church and will be officiated by Preston Rumba, her previous church Deacon. Marie’s eternal resting place will be with her beloved husband and family at Mars Hill Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:

First Baptist Church 185 South Trade Street Matthews, NC 28105

Though a century now separates her from the day she was born, the love she shared and the lives she touched ensure that Marie's story will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her journey has ended, but her legacy remains—a beautiful reminder that a life filled with love is never truly gone.