Carolyn Mae (Penland) Rice, 88, a lifelong resident of Vero Beach, Florida, passed away on Tuesday, August 15, 2023 at the Vero Beach Care Center.  She had been diagnosed with Vascular Dementia in 2019.

Born on September 5, 1934,  she was the daughter of the late Walton Dane and Bertha Amelia (Hansen) Penland.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, G. Warren Rice; two brothers, Norris Dane Penland and Carl Warren Penland; one sister, Bertha Annabelle Penland Martin; and a daughter in law, Leslie Suzanne (Byrd) Rice.

Carolyn is survived by two sons, David (Jeri) Rice of Round Rock, Texas, and Dale Rice of Plant City, Florida; two daughters, Bethany Rice and Beverly (Tim) Turner, both of Vero Beach; 5 grandchildren, Nick (Kayleine) Turner, Veronica Turner, Jessica (Joey) Roger, Dane Rice, and Drew Rice; and 5 great grandchildren, Lucas and Nathan Turner, Jeriah Thomas, and Joziah and Jexi Roger.

She graduated from Vero Beach High School, class of 1952, and married her husband, G. Warren Rice in 1955.

Carolyn was a lifetime member of First Methodist Church in Vero Beach. She taught 3rd and 4th grade Sunday School class for over 40 years.  She was a member of the Pairs and Spares Sunday School Class and participated in many Women's Circles.  She was the "Flower Lady" for the Caring Ministries for 40+ years and had the gift of visiting others who needed comfort and a listening ear.  She had also been involved with many youth activities of the church as well as positions in the church's council.

Carolyn also participated and was an active member of Beta Sigma Phi sorority for over 50 years as well as the Boy Scouts of America, Indian River District, Gulf Stream Council.  She was Den Mother to many in Cub Pack 502, a committee member of Boy Scout Troop 551, and recipient of the Silver Fawn Award.

She was known for her love and support for children of all ages, and had been active in her children's school activities.

A Celebration of Carolyn's life will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, August 24, 2023, at First Methodist Church of Vero Beach, 1750 20th Street, in Vero Beach.  Rev. Becky Glass-Calahan will officiate.

Carolyn will be laid to rest with her husband at Crestlawn Cemetery in Vero Beach.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the First Methodist Church of Vero Beach, 1750 20th Street, Vero Beach, Florida, 32960; or any charity of your choice.

Expressions of sympathy may be offered to the family at CoxGiffordSeawinds.com.