On July 29th, 2019, we lost our tremendous and amazing mom, wife, aunt, grandmother and great grandmother, Becky Rice. Becky passed away peacefully with a rescue pup on her lap. Our hearts are broken, but we found great comfort in knowing there was a HUGE parade of dogs and a few annoyed cats waiting for her on the other side of the rainbow bridge.
An incredible crusader for both people and animals, Becky never turned away anyone in need. Her dogged determination led the charge in getting the very first dog park in East County San Diego (Canine Corners in Harry Griffith Park). When everyone said no, she kept plowing on and made quick friends with the then La Mesa Mayor, Art Madrid. Art admitted he didn't really care for dogs all that much, but he appreciated Becky's tenacity and charm enough give the final approval. She personally had a hand in rescuing thousands of dogs and a variety of other fur babies. Becky not only volunteered for various rescues but also founded Aussie Rescue San Diego, Aussies and Others, and Little Rascals. Her proudest achievement in life is all the work she did to rescue fur babies.
Becky never met a stranger (whether they had two legs or four) and was a brilliant matchmaker in finding the perfect dog for the perfect "furever" family. She never tired of fostering even the most difficult or shy rescue pups (or sometimes people!) because she firmly believed that everyone and every pet deserved a chance. Every holiday was an open house to family, friends, and fur babies galore. Candidly, we admit there were times we've been a little chapped to have to share our Mom with the world, but to see her in action, committed to her passion of helping others, always brought us back to center. Her shining example inspired our own actions and fostered commitment to her causes.
Becky was a great connector, not only with pet matchmaking, but finding the right people to help the causes so dear to her heart. She deeply believed hard work and volunteerism held the key to tackling any project. This is the heart of the foundation we wish to create in her name. A venue for helping people and pets while promoting volunteerism in the community.
Nothing made Becky happier than helping puppies find homes. Whether it was a fundraising garage sale, doggy costume contest, adoption event, or a meet-and-greet, Becky worked tirelessly to help "just one more" dog and fill the heart of someone who needed a furry friend.
Our hearts and lives are forever changed, but in our actions we can honor her memory and take comfort in knowing she's smiling down on us. We wish to honor her legacy and continue her work as an animal advocate, pet rescuer, and champion for all. Our goal will always be finding ways to help others and inspiring those we help to pay it forward.
A Celebration of Life will be held on August 24th, 2019. Information can be found at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/celebration-of-life-for-becky-rice-tickets-67795069879
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to The Becky Rice Memorial foundation.
Becky Rice Memorial Foundation