Essie Mae Miller Rice

Obituary For Essie Mae Miller Rice

~ Obituary ~

Essie Mae Miller Rice

August 19, 1939 – January 2, 2026

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” — Psalm 23:1

Essie Mae Miller Rice was born on August 19, 1939, and peacefully departed this life on January 2, 2026.

She was the beloved daughter of the late Howard and Julia Miller and was united in marriage to Columbus Rice, Jr., who survives her.

Essie retired from the Broward County School System, where she faithfully served as a bus driver, dedicating many years to the care and safety of children in her community.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory her devoted husband, Columbus Rice, Jr.; her siblings: Wallace Miller (Gloria) of Albany, Georgia; Ronald Miller (Betty) of Lauderdale Lakes, Florida; Victor Noltion (Rose) of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Eric Noltion (Sundra) of Valdosta, Georgia; and Sharon Sanchez (Max) of Los Angeles, California; along with a host of sorrowing nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Julia Miller; her sister, Doreatha Green; and her brothers, Mark Noltion, Melvin Miller, David Noltion, Thomas Miller and Willie Erwan Miller of Pompano Beach, FL.

Essie Mae Miller Rice will be lovingly remembered for her dedication, strength, and the love she shared with all who knew her.

Graveside services will be Sunday, January 11, 2026 at 3PM at Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery. Visit this website to view a livestream of the celebration.

Continue to pray along with the family during this time.