Mildred was born on February 4, 1938, in Trenton, Missouri, to Howard W. Wilkinson and Madeline M. Wilkinson. She married Warren E. Rice on June 24, 1956, in Rock Falls, Illinois. He preceded her in death on June 4, 1996. In her early years, Mildred worked as a waitress and later worked at Products Unlimited and Anixter. She was also a proud member of the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary. For the last six years, Mildred lived in her forever home with her daughter Wendy and son-in-law Ron Johnson in Sterling, where she was surrounded by love and family. Mildred found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved reading books by James Patterson, doing word search puzzles, and, during the past six months, especially enjoyed playing casino games on her tablet. For many years, her favorite television shows were General Hospital and Wheel of Fortune. One of Mildred’s greatest joys was watching the hummingbirds outside her window. Hummingbirds are often seen as symbols of love, resilience, and joy, and are known for always finding their way home – a gentle reminder of the warmth and love Mildred brought to her family throughout her life. Above all else, Mildred loved her family deeply. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the center of her world, and the love she gave them will never be forgotten. Her beautiful smile, warmth, and caring heart will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
She is survived by her daughters: Vickie (Russ) Berogan of Walnut, Theresa Delgado of Springfield, Lori (Terry) Keefer of Mesa, Arizona, Valerie (Robert) Keefer of Mesa, Arizona, Cari (Gene) Gray of Henderson, Kentucky, Wendy (Ron) Johnson of Sterling; and one son, Randy (Debbi) Rice of New Braunfels, Texas. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Warren E. Rice; her parents; and her siblings, Howard W. Wilkinson, Helen Allen, Bonita Garcia, and Denver Wilkinson.
Per the immediate family’s wishes, there will be no visitation, as family members were able to say their goodbyes privately. Cremation rites have been accorded.
Celebration of Life Thursday, May 21, 2026 Candlelight Inn 2200 1st Ave., Rock Falls Noon-3 PM for friends and family
