Susan Ann Rice

1948 - 2024

Susan Ann (Baker) Rice, aged 75, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2024, in Tunkhannock, Pa. Born on Dec. 22, 1948, in Plains, Pa., to the late Paul and Helen Baker, Susan was a beacon of joy and love to all who knew her.

She is survived by her husband of 19 years, Bill Rice of Tunkhannock; her brother, John Baker, of Mehoopany; her daughter, Leslie Ann Mangigian (Tony) of Philadelphia; her daughter, Laurie Emma Gizzi (Stephen); and amazing grandson, Michael Joseph Gizzi of Myrtle Beach, S.C.

Susan lived an amazing life. Above all, Susan was devoted to her family. She was a loving mother, adored grandmother, and a friend to many. Her kindness, giving nature and capacity for gratitude touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her whole life was dedicated to caring and raising her daughters to be outstanding in all they accomplished in the world. She was always providing encouragement and support to her children and grandchild in all of their school, work and other activities. Her love for them remains close to their hearts forever. She was the most devoted and loving wife Bill could ask for. She showed generosity on a daily basis. Bill enjoyed sharing in her daughters' lives and their only grandson was a lot of fun for both of them.

Susan's early years in Plains laid the foundation for a life rich in passion and kindness. At the age of 14, she moved to Mehoopany, Pa., where she would eventually carve out a life filled with melody, movement and meaningful connections. An avid guitar player, Susan's love for music was paralleled only by her love for dancing, with the tunes of Elvis Presley often serving as the soundtrack to her life's most cherished moments.

Susan's longest career was at Sire Power/Select Sires where she worked for over 25 years before retiring in 2011. She was involved with farmer customers and field salesmen. She took pleasure in helping them solve accounts receivable issues for the cooperative. A career shift came about in 1998 when she decided to return to school for massage therapy. This career shift, inspired by her lifelong dedication to helping others, came after her children had embarked on their own collegiate journeys. Susan's decision to return to school was a testament to her belief in lifelong learning and personal growth. She eventually obtained her license and was employed part-time at a local chiropractic office for more than 10 years.

Susan leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness, embodied by her cherished children and grandchild. Her spirit, a blend of generosity, love and joy, will forever remain in the hearts of those she loved. Susan always thought of others and was so grateful for the support she received from family and her health care providers. She always went out of her way to say thank you.

In keeping with Susan's loving and generous spirit, a celebration of her life will be held Friday March 22, 2024, at 3:30 p.m. at the Harding Litwin Funeral Home, 123 W. Tioga St., Tunkhannock, Pa. A visitation will be held from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the funeral home, where friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Susan's remarkable journey. In lieu of flowers, donations to Allied Services Hospice would be a tribute to Susan's life of giving and caring (https://www.allied-services.org/giving/make-a-donation/).

Susan's light will continue to shine in the memories of her beloved family and the countless lives she touched with her warmth and compassion. She will be deeply missed but remembered always for the love and happiness she brought into this world.

For online condolences or directions visit www.aplitwinfuneralhomes.com. Internment will be private at the convenience of the family.