Shirley Ann (Williams) Rice, 91, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2026, surrounded by family in her home. She was born on July 27, 1934 in Wadesville, Indiana to Charles and Helen (Fox) Williams-Roberts.
Shirley grew up in Evansville, Indiana, where she graduated from Central High School in 1952. She began her career as a hairdresser in Indiana before her late husband, Chuck was transferred for work to the Shenandoah Valley in Harrisonburg, VA and finally Kalamazoo, MI. In Kalamazoo, she transitioned her career to realty and spent 25 years as a realtor with Zuiderveen Realtors.
In 1985, Shirley married Ron Rice, having known him for several years through church. Their union marked the beginning of a loving covenant that spanned over four decades. Together, they shared a deep faith and enjoyed countless adventures camping across the country in their motor home and fifth wheel. Branson, Missouri, and Ludington, Michigan, held special places in their hearts as favorite destinations.
A talented artist, Shirley found joy in painting both China and canvas as well as other mediums. Her works often captured the beauty of landscapes and scenery that inspired her. Beyond her artistic pursuits, Shirley cherished time spent with her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
Shirley is survived by her beloved husband of 40 years, Ron Rice; her children Debra (Fairchild) Roe, Eric Vorpi, and Shannon (Vorpi) (Ken) Norton; grandchildren Blake (Rochelle) McDivitt, Erica Vorpi, Jacob (Cody) Vorpi, and Callen Vorpi; great-grandchildren Jagger McDivitt, Jireh McDivitt, Addison Vorpi, Dean Vorpi, and Samuel Vorpi; as well as several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her parents Charles Williams and Helen Roberts; her late husbands Albert Fairchild and Charles Vorpi; her son Alan Fairchild; and her sisters Ruth Johnson and Darlene Brackett.
Funeral services will be held at Langeland Family Funeral Home 3926 S. 9th St. Kalamazoo, MI 49009 on Thursday, April 23, 2026, with visitation at 11 AM and the funeral beginning at noon with Rev. Fred Betcher II officiating. She will be laid to rest at Ft. Custer National Cemetery during a private family service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Shirley’s memory to Schoolcraft Assembly of God 13000 US-131, Schoolcraft, MI 49087.
Please visit Shirley’s memorial webpage to share condolences and memories with her family at https://www.langelands.com
