Virginia A. Rice, 98, formerly of Belfast, passed away with her son by her side, on Wednesday, March 9, 2022, in Moravian Hall Square, Nazareth.  She was the beloved wife of Vernon Rice who passed away in 1996.

Born April 21, 1923 in Bushkill Township, she was a daughter of the late Steward and Emma (Hahn) Kratzer.

Virginia was a graduate of Nazareth High School, Class of 1941.  A faithful member of Grace Lutheran Church, Belfast, Virginia taught Sunday School, sang on the choir, was active in the LCW and, along with her husband, served as sexton for over twenty-five years.  A stay at home mom, Virginia provided a loving home for her son and husband, and in her spare time taught piano lessons, baked and sold delicious sugar cakes and was a talented seamstress.

She is survived by her only child; son James Rice and his companion Donna Tibbets of Bath and 2 brothers; Harold Kratzer and his wife Betty Lou of Mt. Bethel and David Kratzer of North Carolina.  Along with her parents, she was predeceased by 1 sister; Dorothy Drum and 3 brothers; Stanley Kratzer, Lester Kratzer and Ralph Kratzer.

A public Graveside Service will be held on Friday, March 18 at 11 am in Belfast Union Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations, in Virginia's memory, can be sent directly to Grace Lutheran Church, 5907 Sullivan Trail, Nazareth PA, 18064 or the Good Samaritan Fund at Moravian Hall Square, 175 W. North St., Nazareth, PA  18064  Attn. Mollie Santee. A

A memorial service for Virginia A. Rice, who passed away on March 9, 2022, will be held Sunday, July 10 at 12 noon in Grace Lutheran Church, Belfast.  Arrangements are under the care of the Schmidt Funeral Home PC, 407 Belvidere St., Nazareth.