Jolene Sandra (Schultz) Rice

Jolene Sandra Rice, age 75, passed away on Thursday, August 27, 2026. She was born on December 2, 1950, in Elgin, Illinois, and lived a life marked by kindness, warmth, and devotion to the people and interests she held dear. Jolene was a loving, friendly, and kind woman whose gentle spirit touched the lives of many and whose memory will be cherished by all who knew her.

Jolene was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl Schultz and Beverley Schroeder; husband, George Rice; as well as her brothers, William Schultz and Gary Schultz. Though she experienced the loss of loved ones throughout her life, she carried herself with grace and strength, always remaining steadfast in her care for her family and in the relationships she nurtured over the years.

She is survived by her sons, Jeffery (Christina) Stephens Jr., and James Stephens. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Brandon Stephens, Jeremy Stephens, Grace Stephens, Noah Stephens, and Laine Stephens, who brought great joy to her life. Jolene is also survived by her sister, Lynn (David) Buetow; her sister-in-law, Karen Schultz, and many nieces and nephews who will remember her with love and gratitude. Her family was the center of her world, and she treasured every opportunity to share time, stories, and memories with them.

Jolene had many interests that reflected her curiosity, creativity, and appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. She enjoyed collecting and selling antiques, and she had a special eye for items with history and character. She also found joy in crafting, where her creativity could shine, and in gardening, where she took pleasure in nurturing beauty and growth. She spent time researching genealogy, a pursuit that reflected her deep interest in family history and connection. She also loved to read, finding comfort, knowledge, and enjoyment in the pages of a good book.

Those who knew Jolene will remember her for the loving way she treated others, her friendly nature, and the kindness she extended so freely. She had a welcoming presence and a thoughtful heart, and she made others feel valued and cared for. Her life was a reflection of quiet strength, devotion, and sincerity, and she leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue through her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her.

In keeping with her wishes, cremation has taken place. Jolene Sandra Rice will be remembered with affection and respect, and her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Condolence for the family may be left on Jolene’s guestbook at www.throopfh.com.

Throop Funeral Home

Coopersville, 616-837-8161