Frances Dorothy Gefsky Rice
May 24, 2023

On Wednesday, May 24, 2023, Beloved wife for 65 years of the late Sidney David Rice; loving and cherished mother of Edward R. Rice (Anna Marie Yosinski Rice), Marjorie C. Rice, Sandra J. Rice-Fritsch (Bryan), and the late Richard D. Rice. Sister of Anatilie Gefsky Seewald, Sorlee Gefsky Chetlin (Martin), and the late Philip Gefsky. Loving and adoring "Ma" to Carley, Ariel and Noah. Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A lifelong Pittsburgher, Frances was born in Beaver Falls, PA, and grew up on Coltart Street and McKee Place in Oakland. She married the love of her life, Sidney, in the original Tree of Life Synagogue on Craft Avenue on New Years Eve of 1950, in a snow storm as family legend has it. Frances was creative and artistic. She was the driving force and CEO of her family. She was the consummate homemaker, chef, seamstress and artist, to name but a few of her talents. A legendary cook and "Balabusta," Frances was known for feeding the neighborhood and opened her home to all. There was no prouder grandmother on the planet -- Frances celebrated her three grandchildren's every accomplishment with an abundance of joy and bursting heart. Lovely inside and out, she was a loving, kind, sweet soul to everyone who crossed her path. Everything she did, she did with her whole heart and soul. She will be deeply missed and always remembered.

Services at Congregation Beth Shalom, 5915 Beacon Street, Squirrel Hill, on Monday, May 29, 2023 at 10:00 am in the Helfant Chapel. Visitation one hour prior to services (9am - 10am) in the Palkovitz Lobby. Interment Beth Shalom Cemetery. Contributions may be made to Congregation Beth Shalom, earmarked for the Rice Auditorium, 5915 Beacon Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15217. Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., family owned and operated. www.schugar.com

Condolences

May you be spared further sorrow and may the Lord comfort you among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem

A sad loss for all who knew her gentle, sweet, kind and warm gracious demeanor. I will always remember her beautiful Passover Seders and meals made with her heart and loving care. She loved her Manischevitz Peach wine.. Always a true classy lady with great taste, unique style, grace and charm. She lived a good life with character and integrity. It was my good fortune to have known her. May she rest in peace.