We celebrate the life of Thomas Rice who passed from health complications on Friday, February 25th. Thomas worked for Little Lights in various ways from 2004 to 2019 including working on the Clean Green Team, doing plumbing and handyman work, and driving our students in the van. Much more than an employee, he became a father figure to many in the community as he was a consistent, loving, and peaceful presence.
He was a deeply devoted husband to our long-time Associate Director, Linda Rice, who passed away on Good Friday in 2020. With Linda, Thomas was part of the spiritual core of Little Lights. Since Linda started helping the Little Lights choir in 2002, Linda and Thomas became like family for Mary and Steve Park and to others in the Little Lights family.
Thomas lived with kindness and generosity. His warmth and sense of humor were well-known to those around him. A man of deep and committed faith, he also loved to sing and occasionally dance to James Brown much to his friends’ delight.
He helped Little Lights and our students and families in countless ways over many years. Together, Thomas and Linda were the ultimate team and now they can be together again. Those of us who knew him will miss his smile, gentleness, and laughter dearly. Our loss is truly heaven’s gain. Our prayers are with his family and friends who are mourning.
If you would like to honor the legacy of Thomas and Linda, consider contributing to the scholarship fund at Little Lights in their name. The scholarship fund helps to provide financial resources to underserved youth to attend college or a career training program to break the cycle of poverty.
