Obituary of Cheryl Therese Rice

Cheryl (Cheri) Therese Rice passed away peacefully on March 19, 2025 at Bay City Comfort Care Assisted Living. Cheri was born on December 31, 1944 in Detroit MI to Marjorie (LaFave) Rice and Sherwood Rice Jr. Cheri resided in Gagetown MI for her first 27 years. While in Gagetown she managed Sherwood Forest Country Club which was owned by her Father and Mother. In 1971 Cheri moved with her mother to Ft. Lauderdale FL. She obtained employment at Port Everglades as a secretary to the Port’s captains. It was there she met the love of her life, Capt. William Jackson. Cheri and Bill enjoyed many years together as business partners in the marine documentation and surveying business. Both had a love of travel and together cruised to destinations around the world. Bill preceded Cheri in death. Cheri eventually obtained her realtors license and enjoyed a career with Lago Mar Realty in Ft. Lauderdale. Cheri was a lifelong member of St. Sebastian Catholic Church in Ft. Lauderdale where she volunteered in numerous capacities. She made many treasured friends along the way. In 2021 Cheri returned to Bay City to be near family as her health was declining. Cheri was known by family and friends for her kindness and generosity. Cheri is survived by her cousins, Cori Denay of Bay City and Bill (Xan) LaFave of Gagetown who she always referred to as her sister and brother. In addition, Cheri leaves Capt. Jackson’s children who were also family to her, especially Patricia Marks who she remained closely connected to. A funeral mass will be held in Gagetown MI at St. Agatha Catholic Church on Saturday, March 29th at 11:00am. Fr. Craig Carolan will officiate. The family will recieve visitors from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to a charity of the donor's choice.  To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com  Arrangements made with Cremation Society of Mid-Michigan.