Geneva Irene Rice

Geneva Irene Rice, affectionally known as “Gen” passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at Carbondale Memorial Hospital, surrounded by her loving husband, her children; grandchildren; and other cherished family members.

She was born on May 18, 1965, in Charleston, Missouri, and attended Meridian High School in Mounds, Illinois. She was loved by everyone she encountered. Her radiant smile could light up any room, and she truly never met a stranger. Geneva was the life of every gathering and brought joy wherever she went. She was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend who will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered.

Geneva married the love of her life, Raymond O. Rice, on November 24, 1997. Together they were blessed with four daughters: Kiyanna, Shayla, Ramona, and Ashley.

Geneva enjoyed spending time with family and friends, playing cards, listening to music—especially the blues—traveling, taking cruises, and simply enjoying life. Her laughter, warmth, and joyful spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband, Raymond; her daughters; grandchildren, Jaren, Ashley Ann, Aaron, Keyonte, Monay, Montaque Jr., Alexya, and Jonathan Jr.; great-grandchildren, Iasia, Giauna, Nauji, George, and Ki’Ari; her beloved mother, Lillie Mae Jones; sisters Mallinand Jones, Shirley Cole, Joyce (Randy) Hubbard, Janice Morris, Beverly Gary, Carolyn Jones, Tammie Jones, and Pamela Purdiman; brothers, Billy Jones and Michael Jones; goddaughter, MiJasia Williams; godson, Darryl Wayne Smith; sisters-in-law, Edith M. Hall, Emma M. Snead and Carrie L. Rice; and brother-in-law, Lawrence L. Rice.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Ashley Ann Jones; siblings Rosemary Reeves, Brenda J. Jones, and Willie Lee Jones; nephews Billy G. Lowery and James G. Owens Jr.; her father, Jimmie Jackson; niece, LaSonya M. Stuckey; mother-in-law Eddie Sue Rice; father-in-law, Lee Roy Rice; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Willie L. Rice, Lue Anna McDade, Roy Gene Rice, John E. Rice, Eddie Ray Rice, and Robert E. Rice; and her special friend, Georgia Ann Davis.

Ministry of Comfort was lovingly entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.