Marlice R. Smith's Obituary
Marlice Smith of San Diego passed away on November 24, 2020, at age 91. She was born to Eva and Harvey Rice in Hill City, Minnesota on March 6, 1929; she was the ninth of 10 children. The brothers’ service in WWII was greatly appreciated by family and hometown. Shortly after, her siblings relocated. Marlice gladly exchanged cold weather for San Diego in 1951.
She married a Navy man, Robert Smith, himself a transplant from Texas. They raised two children, Mark and Robin. For a number of years in their own home, they made a great caregiving team for challenged women. Adding to family, they helped sister Romelle relocate with her children Larry, Linda, Liane, and Leslie. Also residing in San Diego was brother Clark, as were others for periods of time. Their frequent visitors appreciatively called it the Smith Bed and Breakfast!
Marlice’s son John Zilch had lived in Minnesota with an adopted family; as adults, they enjoyed happy reunion. He and Deb lived with Marlice during her last years. Robin resides at Noah Homes in Spring Valley, a place Marlice showed her love and dedication.
She was preceded in death by husband Robert Smith, son Mark Smith, six brothers and two sisters. Marlice is survived by son John Zilch and wife Deborah, daughter Robin Smith, her close sister Sharle Beebe of Arizona, grandson Andrew Zilch and wife Abby with great grandchildren Quincy and Evan, and numerous relatives. Marlice will be sorely missed by all.
At Greenwood Memorial Park, 4300 Imperial Avenue, San Diego:
Friday, December 11 – Viewing in a chapel noon to 1:00 p.m.; outdoor funeral service at 1:00 p.m.; entombment in their mausoleum, 40th Psalm corridor.
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