Honoring Alfonzo Rice’s Life and Legacy

In Loving Memory of Alfonzo “Al” Rice Sr. – Supporting Shirley Rice

Our dad, Alfonzo “Al” Rice Sr., was the heartbeat of our family. His laughter could light up any room, his love for Motown got everyone dancing, and his booming voice—whether from a sneeze or a story—made sure no one ever missed a moment. He brought joy, strength, and unwavering love to everyone who knew him.

Our parents, Al and Shirley, shared a love story that began in high school when they met at just 16 years old. That spark grew into a 53-year marriage built on loyalty, sacrifice, and unconditional love. Together, they raised seven children, and were blessed with eight grandchildren. Through every season of life, they faced it side by side.

Our dad had a rare gift for bringing people together. Whether it was with his sense of humor, his loud and hearty laugh, or his ability to make strangers feel like family, he left a mark everywhere he went. He loved fishing, sports, classic Westerns, dancing, and, of course, Motown music. His love for it was contagious—you couldn’t be in the room without swaying to the beat.

He worked hard and took pride in everything he did, spending 10 years at Raytheon and 20 years with Boston’s Parks and Recreation Department.

In 2016, everything changed. Our dad suffered a major stroke that took his speech and severely limited his movement. Without hesitation, our mom—his best friend and lifelong companion—made the selfless decision to retire early and care for him full time. She poured her entire heart into making sure he was surrounded by love, comfort, and dignity every day.

On June 1, 2025, our dad was hospitalized. Our dad was a fighter, he fought to live every day, never giving up, even mustering the energy to move his feet to music. And through it all, our mom never left his side—sleeping in his hospital room, holding his hand, and playing his favorite music. Her love never wavered. Her strength never broke. Unfortunately, on July 10, our dad passed peacefully surrounded by his family and close friends.

Now, our mom faces a chapter without the love of her life for more than five decades.

If you know our mom, you know she would never ask for help. She’s always been the one giving—quietly, generously, and without ever expecting anything in return. Even now, her biggest concern is being a burden to others.

So today, we’re asking—not just on her behalf, but because of her.

We, her children, are reaching out to our extended community—and to anyone moved by stories of enduring love and quiet sacrifice. Your donation will help ease the financial burden our mom now carries, and give her the space to grieve, reflect, and begin healing after all she has given.

Whether you knew our family personally or are simply someone with a generous heart, thank you. Your kindness is a powerful reminder of the good in the world—and a beautiful way to honor the kind of love that lasts a lifetime.

With love and deep gratitude,

The Children of Alfonzo and Shirley Rice