Gilda Green Rice - Obituary

ilda Joyce (Green) Rice, affectionately known as “Ms. Green,” was born on August 12, 1948, the first-born child of the late Rev. William and Bernies Green. On January 19, 2025, she was called home to rest in the loving arms of our Lord. From a young age, Gilda’s life was rooted in faith. She began her spiritual journey at East Friendship Baptist Church in Washington, D.C., where she was nurtured under the guidance of Rev. Robert Wright and her father, Rev. William Green, Junior Pastor. Gilda accepted Christ into her heart early in life, and her devotion to Him deepened as she grew. She was an active member of the Junior Choir at East Friendship Baptist Church. As an adult, she joined Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church in Washington, D.C., where she found a community that nurtured her faith and allowed her to flourish. Under the leadership of Rev. Leon G. Lipscombe, Gilda devoted herself to multiple ministries, including Worship Leader, the Missionary Society, Christian Education, Adult Sunday School, Dance Ministry, Scholarship Committee, Food Pantry, the Vessels of Joy Ministry, and the Gospel Choir. Her faith and commitment to service were the foundation upon which she built her life. Gilda was a proud graduate of Anacostia High School, Class of 1966, and continued her education at Howard University, always seeking to better herself and serve others. Gilda had a distinguished career, starting with C&P (later Verizon), where she worked for over 20 years, rising from operator to supervisor. She later continued her service to the community at the Department of Social Services in Prince George’s County, Maryland, where she worked until her well-deserved retirement. In 1968, Gilda was blessed with the birth of her son, Sean. Her love for him was unwavering, and together they journeyed through life with deep affection, support, and joy. In 1978, Gilda met the love of her life, Theron Rice, and his daughter, Jocelyn. Their bond was one built on respect, understanding, and joy. After a beautiful courtship, they married in 1984. The union of Gilda and Theron created a home filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. For 38 years, Theron and Gilda stood together through life’s joys and challenges, raising their children and later embracing the joy of being grandparents. Gilda’s heart overflowed with love for her four grandchildren: Miles, Bria, Dante, and Dylan. She delighted in spending time with them, offering wisdom, laughter, and affection. Her joy grew even further when she welcomed her first great-grandchild, Nile, into the world. Gilda cherished these bonds with all her heart. A lover of the arts, Gilda found joy in music, dance, reading, painting, and gardening. She also had a gift for cooking and baking, especially her famous pound cake, which became a beloved treat among family and friends. Though Gilda has been called home, her memory will live on in the hearts of those she loved. She is preceded in death by her devoted husband, Theron Rice; her parents, Rev. William and Bernies Green; and her brother, Cornell Green. She leaves behind her children: son Sean (Sarita) and daughter Jocelyn (Dante); her grandchildren: Miles, Bria, Dante, and Dylan; and her great-grandchild, Nile. She is also survived by her siblings: sister Estelle James; brothers Virgil Green (Brenda), Sebastian Green (Cynthia), and Terence Green; as well as her uncles Leroy Green, Eugene Green (Gladys), and Clarence Green, and her aunts Elenor Davis, Emma Young, and Davetta Green. Gilda’s extended family, including her nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and dear friends, were all cherished by her. Her spirit touched so many lives, and she leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and devotion. While we will deeply miss Gilda’s presence, we take comfort in knowing that her spirit remains with us—strong, loving, and guiding us through the days ahead. She has left an indelible mark on our hearts, and her memory will continue to inspire us to live lives filled with faith, compassion, and joy. Family and friends are invited to Gilda's Life Celebration on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 from 10 A.M. until the start of the service at 11 A.M. at Allen Chapel AME Church, 2498 Alabama Ave SE, Washington, DC 20020. Interment at Washington National Cemetery 4101 Suitland Rd., Suitland, MD 20746.