Audrey E. “Betty” Rice, 95, of Shelbyville, passed away Saturday, December 17, 2022, at Ashford Place Health Campus in Shelbyville.

She was born January 8, 1927, in Shelby County, the daughter of Harry and Nellie (Eck) Hickman.  On May 21, 1948, she married Russell E. Rice, and he preceded her in death on July 7, 1992.

Mrs. Rice is survived by her nieces, Linda L. (Larry) Johnson, Jimmie Ann Buckley, and Judy K. Hickman; and nephew, Gerald R. (Jerry) Hickman.

In addition to Russell, Betty was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Clifford H. Hickman and Charles W. Hickman; sister, Pauline Hickman; infant brother, Donald Hickman; and infant twin brother, William.

Mrs. Rice was Deputy County Assessor from January of 1947 to January 1, 1967, and from January 1, 1975 to January 1, 1987.  She graduated from Waldron High School on May 2, 1945.

Visitation will be from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, December 20, 2022, at Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, Carmony-Ewing Chapel, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville.

Funeral services will follow, with Rev. Bill Horner officiating.

Interment will be at Forest Hill Cemetery.

Online condolences may be shared with Mrs. Rice’s family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.