Ellen Jeffcott Rice's Obituary
Surrounded by family, Ellen Jeffcott Rice, 81, died peacefully in her beloved home Monday, June 30, 2025. Born in Washington D.C. she moved with her mother and father at a very young age to live in Fort Myers, Florida where she remained her entire life. While being a single parent, Ellen served as a clerk at the Lee County Tax Collector’s Office and retired after 30 years. She then dedicated her life to family.
Ellen always prioritized her children's needs, providing comfort and guidance during challenging times. She was their rock; their foundation and her teachings and unconditional love shaped them profoundly. Additionally, her role as a grandmother brought immense joy. Her grandkids brought her endless smiles and laughter, and she showered them with love and enjoyed the magical moments of watching them grow and learn new things every day.
Her sweet smile, kind demeanor, gentle voice, and commitment to the simple things in life made her an unforgettable and remarkable person. She loved her family first and foremost and her house and property. She loved her plants, flowers, beach shells, dolls, and picture albums; just a few of the many things that made her an adorable lady.
Ellen is survived by her two children David Rice (Kimberly) & Kristin McHugh (Mark). Four grandchildren David, Luke, Ellen and Lacey. Seven great grandchildren Ryder, Blakely, Emmet, Grayson, twins Koe & Walker, and Waylon.
Family and friends are invited to a Memorial Service in her honor on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, beginning at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
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