Kay D. Rice

Kay D. Rice, 85, of Montour Falls, NY, peacefully passed away October 17, 2026. Born July 8, 1941, to Gerald and Dorothy Pritchard, Kay graduated from Elmira Free Academy in 1959. She married William “Bill” Rice in June 1960, and together they made quite a team—Bill brought home the fish and game, while Kay turned it into “creative” family meals. She worked at Thatcher Glass and later Cornell University, where she retired after many years of service.

Above all, Kay had a generous heart and a gift for putting others before herself. She welcomed those whom others might overlook or reject, offering kindness, acceptance, and a helping hand without judgment or hesitation. Her faith was central to her life, and she found great joy and purpose in serving God and others through New Hope Baptist Church.

Music was one of Kay's greatest joys. A talented pianist who loved to sing, she shared her gifts at church and performed for residents of local nursing homes. She also devoted her time to volunteering at the local food pantry. For Kay, helping others wasn't simply something she did; it was who she was. Kay also loved cheering on the New York Yankees and enjoying life's simple pleasures with family and friends.

Kay was predeceased by her husband, William Rice; son, Mark Rice; daughter-in-law, Judith Rice; parents, Gerald and Dorothy Pritchard; and brother, Loren Pritchard. She is survived by her son, Dennis Rice of Pfafftown, NC; daughter, Holly (Robert) Donaldson of West Lafayette, IN; daughter-in-Law, Deb Rice of Montour Falls, NY; brother, Roy (Betty) Pritchard of Cheshire, CT; and sister, Norma Carl of Elmira, NY.

She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Jessica (Johnny Cook) Westlake, Tyler Westlake, Peyton Westlake, Nicholas Haddock, and Amy Williams; and great-grandchildren, Aiden, Alec, Anastasia, Ayla, Corbin, Crystena, Gabrielle, Gavin, Justin, Michael (“Tripp”), and Noah; along with several nieces, nephews, and many dear friends from her church and community.

Kay will be remembered for her unwavering faith and the kindness she extended to others, especially those who needed it most. Her legacy lives on in the family she loved and the many lives made brighter by her presence.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Monday, October 26, 2026 from 3-4 pm at Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY. Her funeral service will follow. Burial will be in Forest Lawn Cemetery in Elmira.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Seneca View Nursing Facility for the love and compassionate care they provided to Kay. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to New Hope Baptist Church, 5528 State St., Millport, NY 14865.