Elissa Mary Rice, 98, passed away peacefully at her home in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on Monday, January 12, 2026. Born Ursula Mary Elissa Lawrey on January 30, 1927, in Devonport, England, she was the daughter of Martin and Elizabeth (Gosling) Lawrey. Elissa began her education at St. Clare's boarding school in England. After the loss of her father in the sinking of H.M.S. Courageous, her family relocated to be with family in Bermuda. She later returned to England to attend university in London, then rejoined her family, who were now in Texas. In San Antonio, Elissa met the love of her life, Robert M. Rice, whom she married in 1957. They had two children, Robert Jr. and Elizabeth, and eventually settled in Oklahoma.

Elissa dedicated over 30 years of service to OU Medical Center before retiring. A devoted member of All Souls Episcopal Church, Elissa embraced retirement surrounded by family and friends. She enjoyed spending time with loved ones and remained active in her faith community.

She is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth Maren; her husband, Adolph; granddaughter Lauren Andrews; her husband, Leo; great-grandsons Andrew, Adolph, and Royce; grandson Ryan Maren; his wife, Sally; great-grandson Roland; and half-brother James Grasley.

Elissa was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Milton Rice Sr., and her son, Robert Milton Rice Jr.