Willie Lou Rice

Willie Lou Rice, age 93, of Marengo, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Lou was known for her ornery wit, caring spirit, and the love of her family. Many will remember her homemade pickles made with the vegetables she grew in her garden, as well as apple butter and sauce, jams, and jellies. When she no longer had her garden, she absolutely loved to make freezer jam and share with those she cared about.

Lou was especially proud of her work as the Senior Receptionist for EWI, she was with EWI for 21 years. This role earned her a tribute in the Congressional Record for her service.

She is survived by her children, Lynn Byington (Mark Byington) and Susan Andrew; grandchildren Scott Byington (Amy Byington), Sarah Lytle and Bailey Campbell (Lucy Campbell); and great-granddaughters Caroline Byington and Nora Lytle.

A celebration of life service will be on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 11:00 am at Vineyard Church of Delaware County, 1001 W. Cherry Street, Sunbury, OH 43074. Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00am prior to the service.

The family is not requesting flowers or donations. Instead walk with your head up and greet people you may or may not know with a smile and say hello, give a shout out to Lou when you do. Ms. Willie Lou Rice was great at making people smile and feel loved.

The family would like to thank Grady Memorial Hospital for their exceptional care of their mother.