In Memory: May 13

From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory

Tom Rush Ragland III, 89, Vero Beach

January 03, 1935 – April 23, 2024

Tom Rush Ragland, III, age 89, former First Selectman of the Town of Greenwich, died Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at his home in Vero Beach, Florida.  He was surrounded by his loving wife and children. He was born in Charleston, WV on January 3, 1935, and the son of the late Tom Rush Ragland, Jr. and Nancy Thomas Ragland who moved to Greenwich, CT in 1952.

Mr. Ragland was a graduate of Deerfield Academy in Deerfield, MA attended the University of Miami, Florida; and was Honorably discharged from the United States Air Force. He married his beloved wife Marilyn Sue Thurman of Broken Bow Nebraska in 1960. He received a Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Nebraska, was President of the College of Engineering and Architecture, and graduated with honors and went on to earn a Masters degree in Architecture & Planning from Columbia University, specializing in healthcare facilities planning and design.

In 1968, he and Marilyn welcomed a wonderful boy, Tom R. Ragland IV and in 1970 welcomed their loving daughter, Angela Suzanne Ragland to the family.

He began his career in architecture in 1965 at the prestigious firm of Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, Architects & Planners in New York. He was a Participating Associate Partner with responsibilities of Project Design, Project Management and Long-Range Planning. In 1972, he joined Ezra Ehrenkrantz to build a new firm, The Ehrenkrantz Group, New York, where he served as Vice President of Healthcare Facilities. Projects for which he had significant responsibilities include: The Joseph H. Hirschhorn Museum, Washington, DC; Lyndon Baines Johnson Library Austin, Texas and the Annenberg Tower, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York and the Large Animal Teaching Hospital, Tufts University.

Mr. Ragland retired from the architectural profession in 1981 to spend more time with his family. The work and travel demands were putting a strain on balancing the needs of business and family. He chose a second profession, which had been his hobby, photography. He bought a full-service photo retail business in Old Greenwich Connecticut and renamed it The Image Center, Inc. Mr. Ragland is a noted photographer and covered the America’s Cup Yacht racing in 1980, and 1983 in Newport RI, 1986-7 in Perth Australia and 1988 in San Diego CA. More recently he was the official photographer for the World Cup Etchells Regatta in Long Island Sound in 2003.

While working locally, Mr. Ragland helped the founding of Old Greenwich Retail Merchants Association and became its President, joined the Greenwich Chamber of Commerce and the Greenwich Council on Youth and Drugs; was appointed to the Town of Greenwich Planning and Zoning Commission, the Selectmen’s Committee on Parking and Traffic, the Long-Range Planning Committee, Vacant Schools Committee and the Cos Cob School Building Committee.

In 1992, Mr. Ragland retired and sold the Image Center. He continued his public service to the Town and the Chamber. In the late spring of 1993, he was asked by the Greenwich Republican Town Committee to run as a Selectman, he accepted and this launched a third career, politics. Mr. Ragland was elected Selectman in 1993. He successfully ran for First Selectman (Mayor) in 1995 and again in 1997, serving two terms before he retired in December of 1999.

Mr. Ragland is a member and former Chairman of the Board of the Greenwich Chamber of Commerce; served on the board of directors of: Greenwich Emergency Medical Services; Bruce Museum – Ex Officio; Greenwich Hospital – Incorporator; Greenwich YMCA Advisory Committee; and the Community Advisory Board – Junior League of Greenwich. He is a member of the Riverside Yacht Club where he served on the Board of Governors, The Harpoon Club, The Horseneck Club of Greenwich, Greenwich Republican Roundtable and the Heritage Foundation. Upon moving to Vero Beach Florida in 2014, he joined the Quail Valley Golf & River Club. More recently he was honored to be included In the Who’s Who of America and the recipient of the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award.

Mr. Ragland loved his town and contributed enormously to its success bringing his professional experience to resolve complex issues. He was always a people person and empowered his staff to do their job well and would stand behind them and support them in every way. One of his great strengths was his sense of humor which was always present in any meeting. He was selected by the Harpoon Club to be its “Fall Guy” in 2004. He had a deep love for golf, skiing, sailing and tennis. He thoroughly enjoyed being with his family and friends.

Mr. Ragland is survived by his wife, Marilyn Thurman Ragland, of 64 years and is his son, Tom Rush Ragland IV, and his wife Sally Hogin Ragland, their children Jack and Juliet of Manchester, VT; and his daughter, Angela Ragland McConnell and her two children Mickey and Christopher; his two brothers, John T. Ragland and his wife Susan of Savannah, GA and Chris W. Ragland of Savannah, GA.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00AM on Friday, May 31st at First Congregational Church of Greenwich, CT.

In lieu of flowers contributions should be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation at https://www2.jdrf.org/site/Donation or mail to JDRF PO Box 5021 Hagerstown, MD 21741-5021 or to the Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital, 1000 36th Street. Vero Beach, Florida 32960

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.

From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory

Lisa Mae (Lane) Fesler, 59, Vero Beach

February 13, 1965 – April 23, 2024

Lisa Mae (Lane) Fesler, 59, died April 23,2024 at Cleveland Clinic Indian River County, in Vero Beach.

She was born in Zanesville Ohio and moved to Vero Beach Florida in 1993 and remained there until her death.

She was a graduate of Zanesville High School.

She is survived by her mother, Shirley (Larry) Moore; her companion of over 30 years, Andrew ”Bubba” Speilman; her three daughters, Nikki (Jesse Peacock, Sr.) Fesler, Dixie (Mike Warren) and Elizabeth Fesler; her grandchildren, De’Vontay Fesler, Jr., Desean Shivers, Jesslynn, Jesstin and Nikaylah Peacock, Isabella & Novak Flores-Fesler, William Fesler, Carmello Lozada, Wesley and Delaney Warren. 3 Step grandchildren Jesse Jr & Messiah Peacock and Chanel Langford; her siblings, Amber (D.M.) Ford, Amanda (Roy) Dalton, Mark (Jenni) Lane, Sr. and

Roxanne Harris; her special great nephew, Emmett McClelland; sister-in-laws, Jo Ann Cool and Vicki Jimenez. A host of nieces and nephews including Cierra and Chaz Hill and Cassidy and Camden Stewart along with many aunts uncles and cousins.

She was predeceased by her father, Denzil Lane; her stepmother, Sharon (Rucker) Lane; her mother-in-law, Jeanne “Blondie” Speilman; sister0in-law, Vivian Gale Speilman; her great niece, Emory Jo- Lynn Mcclelland; her grandparents, Paul and Wanda Stoneburner and Denzil and Cora Lane.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Greater Apostolic Church of Christ, 1651 State Street, Zanesville, Ohio 43701 on Saturday, May 11, 2024 from 3:00 p.m. to 7 p.m. and a private service to be held in Florida at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to 914 18TH Place, Vero Beach, Florida 32960 c/o Nikki Fesler.

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.

From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory

Michael Joseph Graber, 78 

June 04, 1945 – May 04, 2024

Toms River, NJ – Michael Joseph Graber passed away peacefully at age 78 on May 4th, in Vero Beach, FL with his family by his side.

Born in South Amboy, NJ on June 4, 1945 to Martin and Marion Graber, née Haas. He married Susan Graber, née Lloyd on April 15, 1967.

Mike graduated from Perth Amboy Boys Vocational School as an Electrician in 1964. He went to work for Ford Motor Company as an Electrician in 1971 and retired after 33 faithful years in 2004. Later he worked for Middlesex College as an Adjunct Professor teaching small engine repair in State Correctional facilities.

The quintessential DIYer, Mike was always a proud homeowner that never shied away from maintaining and repairing all aspects of the family household and vehicles. He also enjoyed many hobbies over the years, including: skiing, advanced scuba diving, boating, model building and ham (amateur) radio.

Mike was a Past Exalted Ruler of Millstone Elks #2613, Member of Lacey Elks #2518 and Member of Jackson Moose Lodge #1459 since 1978.

He is survived by his wife, Susan of 57 years, his daughters Stacey Breunig and Danielle (Paul) Regan. His grandchildren William (Emily) Breunig, Meghan Regan, Samantha Breunig, and Sean Regan, along with his great grandson Levi Breunig. His 3 brothers, John (Audrey), Robert, and Joseph (Diane). Many nieces, nephews, so many wonderful friends, and his buddy Sebastian, who growled at him every day, but by his side for scratches.

He was predeceased by his parents Marion and Marty, his brother-In-law Kenneth Lloyd and sister-in-law Phyllis Graber.

Services to be arranged by the family at a future date.

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.

From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory

Kathleen Rippert, 51

October 09, 1972 – April 26, 2024

In loving memory of Kathleen Rippert, it is with heavy hearts that we share the news of her passing on April 26, 2024. Born on October 9th,1972 Kathleen (Kate) departed from this world peacefully in her home in Corpus Christi, Texas. She was 51 years old. Her sudden departure has left us shocked and devastated, and words fail to capture the depth of our grief.

She received her early education in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. She also attended the Naples American High School in Italy and received her bachelor’s degree from Immaculata College in Pennsylvania. She completed her education with a master’s degree in criminal justice.

Kate was more than just a daughter, sister, cousin, partner, and friend; she was a beacon of light in the lives of all who knew her. Her boundless passion, kindness, and creativity left an indelible mark on countless souls. With her humor, her infectious smile, and unyielding optimism, she radiated love wherever she went, touching hearts and inspiring those around her.

Among her many accomplishments, Kate dedicated herself to meaningful causes, especially for veterans. She was instrumental in establishing the Coastal Bend Field of Honor to Corpus Christi, where she raised funds and was deeply involved with its development. It was the first of its kind in the area. It is a testament to her compassionate nature and commitment to honoring those who served.

Kate’s journey took her across the globe, as she grew up in various corners of the world, accompanying her family during her father’s service in the Navy. Her experiences shaped her into the extraordinary individual she was, imbuing her with resilience, adaptability, and a sense of adventure that defined her mercurial personality. She was avid Red Sox and Patriots fan (which drove her PA and NYC family crazy).

For many years, Kate thrived in Los Angeles, where she served as an executive assistant at the CAA Talent Agency. Her time in LA allowed her to pursue her passions while forming lifelong connections with colleagues and friends.

She is survived by her longtime partner Mike Hegney, her father Capt. Eric T. Rippert (ret.), her mother, Mary Ellen Rippert, her brother, Thomas Rippert, and countless relatives and friends who loved her.

Though Kate’s physical presence may have departed from this world, her spirit remains vibrant in the cherished memories we hold dear. As we bid farewell to our dear Kathleen, may she find eternal peace in the arms of serenity. Her absence leaves a void that can never be filled, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Family and friends are invited to the funeral service on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church, 7550 26th St, Vero Beach, FL 32966.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you donate in Kate’s name to:

Nueces County Veterans Services

602 N. Staples Suite 180

Corpus Christi, Texas 78401

Rest in eternal peace, dear Kate. Your light will continue to shine brightly in our hearts forevermore. Go n-éiri an bóther leat (May the good Lord hold you in the palm of his hand.)

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.

From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory

William Robert Beaty, 83, Vero Beach

September 08, 1940 – May 03, 2024

William Robert Beaty passed away peacefully on Friday, May 3, 2024 in Vero Beach, FL with his loving family by his side.  He was born in Texarkana, AR and lived much of his life in St. Louis, MO before moving to Vero Beach, FL.  He is survived by his wife, Carol, his three children, Michael Beaty (Julie), Robert Beaty (Cindy) and Susan Ennis (Matt) and six grandchildren Thomas Beaty, Mark Beaty (Izzy), Rebecca Messenger (Jacob), Daniel Beaty, Emily Ennis and Jack Ennis.  He is predeceased by his parents, Orvil and Lillian Beaty.

Bill grew up in St. Louis where he met Carol in high school study hall.  From the age of 15 they spent most of their time together.  Bill and Carol were married in 1963 in St. Louis and they were married for over 60 years.

Upon graduation from high school, Bill went on to the University of Missouri and then graduated from the St. Louis University School of Medicine.  He practiced Obstetrics and Gynecology in St. Louis for over 30 years.  Bill loved being a physician and cared deeply about his patients.  Outside of his medical practice he spent his time with his family pursuing his other passions: sailing, fishing, hunting, golf, travel and family time.

Bill always loved the water.  Bill and Carol bought their first sailboat in 1966 and soon after discovered the Lake of the Ozarks where they enjoyed countless weekends on the water with their family.  As a young family they also took many road trip vacations, and it was said that Bill could show you the “50 states in 50 days”.  It took a bit longer than 50 days but Bill and Carol did eventually visit all 50 states.

Bill retired from medicine in 1997 and he and Carol moved to Vero Beach, FL where they lived near the water and spent their days enjoying the sun, sea and travel.  They sailed the intracoastal waterway and took many sailing trips to the Bahamas and the Virgin Islands.  Bill also spent many days with good friends on the ocean catching mahi mahi to bring home for dinner.  They were lucky enough to spend over 25 years in Vero enjoying the water and sharing that passion with their children and grandchildren.  When not out on the boat, family visits were often spent in and around the pool where Bill taught his grandchildren how to swim.  He was a great storyteller and always had a joke or funny story to share.  He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer and Parkinson Association of Indian River County (2300 5th Ave, Suite 150, Vero Beach, FL 32960) or the VNA Hospice of Vero Beach (445 24th St., Vero Beach, FL 32960).

Services will be arranged by the family at a later date.

From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory

Captain Eric Theodore Rippert, 82

February 22, 1942 – May 06, 2024

Captain Eric Theodore Rippert, a beloved figure in both the Navy and the field of dentistry, passed away on May 6, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of service, education, and love. Born in Fort Devens, MA, Eric spent his early years in New York City under the care of his mother while his father, Colonel Jacob Rippert, heroically fought in World War II. It was this early exposure to military life that would shape Eric’s path, instilling in him a deep sense of duty and honor.

Eric’s passion for the Navy was matched only by his love for teaching dentistry. Starting in the Navy, he embarked on a distinguished career as an educator, leaving his mark at institutions such as the Great Lakes Hospital, the University of Richmond, University of Nebraska, University of Pittsburgh, and finally the Dental College of Georgia. His dedication to teaching extended beyond the classroom, as he volunteered his time to lead tours at Constitution Island at the United States Military Academy and at the SEAL Museum in Vero Beach, Florida.

Throughout his life, Eric balanced his roles as a naval officer and a dentist with grace and skill. He served on the USS Paul Revere (LPA-248) and was a plank owner on the USS Eisenhower (CVN-69), where his leadership and expertise were invaluable. Eric’s deployment to Vietnam aboard the USS Paul Revere showcased his bravery and commitment to his country.

Eric was not only a distinguished naval officer and educator but also a devoted family man. He was married to Mary Ellen Rippert, and together they shared the joys and challenges of life. Eric is survived by his son, Thomas Ashton Rippert, and although his daughter, Kathleen Marie Rippert, has passed away, her memory lives on in the hearts of those who loved her.

A devout Catholic, Eric found solace and strength in his faith, guiding him through life’s trials and triumphs. His faith was a cornerstone of his character, shaping his values and guiding his actions.

Eric’s love for dentistry was evident in both his teaching and practice. As an oral surgeon, he approached his work with passion and precision, leaving a lasting impact on his students and patients alike. His love for teaching and practicing dentistry intersected beautifully, creating a legacy of excellence that will endure for generations to come.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Eric was known for his quirks and passions. He had a notorious aversion to lettuce but had a sweet tooth that was undeniable, perhaps a humorous nod to his chosen profession. His lifelong love for dogs was unmatched but he is also known for his creative side, as evidenced by his creation of a three-foot-high paper-mâché tooth while stationed at Quantico.

Eric’s adventurous spirit led him to remarkable experiences, such as drinking champagne out of a crystal fruit bowl during a trip to the Soviet Union. Yet, amidst his travels and adventures, Eric always cherished his roots in Ellenville, NY. He spent countless summers at his cabin, where he found peace and joy in the simple pleasures of life.

In his passing, Eric leaves behind a void that cannot be filled, but his spirit will continue to inspire all who knew him. His legacy of service, education, and love will endure, a testament to a life well-lived at the intersection of leadership, dentistry, and teaching. As we mourn his loss, let us also celebrate the extraordinary man that Captain Eric Theodore Rippert was and the profound impact he had on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A funeral mass with military honors provided by the Sebastian Area Honor Guard will be held 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church, 7550 26th Street, Vero Beach, FL 32966.

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.

From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory

Susan Melton Loidl, 63, Vero Beach

January 21, 1961 – May 08, 2024

Susan Melton Loidl passed away May 8, 2024, at Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital. She was born and raised in Vero Beach, FL.

She was a member of Chapel in the Woods.

Survivors include her companion, James Loidl, children, Sarah Camaj and Hunter Loidl, step-children, Ericka Loidl and Amanda Loidl, grandchildren, Cayden and Ashden, brothers, Eddie and David Melton, sister, Patricia Parker, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, Eddie Lee Melton and Clarissa Olgesby-Melton, son Roy Scholtes, brother, Darren Melton, and her sister, Cindy Melton.

There will be a graveside service at Crestlawn Cemetery, 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 18, 2024.

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.

From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory

Reverend Robert Lee O’Quinn, Jr., 89, Vero Beach

May 09, 1934 – April 25, 2024

Reverend Robert Lee O’Quinn, Jr, age 89, passed away peacefully in his home in Vero Beach, Florida on April 25, 2024.   The family, while saddened, rejoices in the promise that “to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord”.

Robert was born on May 9, 1934, to Robert and Laura O’Quinn in Dublin, Georgia. During his school years the family moved to Lake Wales, Florida. Robert accepted Jesus at a revival during his High School years and was called to the ministry.   On August 31,1958 he was ordained into the Gospel Ministry.

Robert met his wife, Alice Burke, at a Christian Summer camp where Alice was a camp counselor, and he was a lifeguard.  They were married on July 3, 1959, and remained together loving and serving others till his death.  In July, they would have celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.

Robert received a bachelor’s degree from Stetson University in 1963 followed by a master’s degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1966.  Throughout these college years Robert worked part-time and preached when given opportunities while Alice taught school.

After college, Robert and Alice faithfully served in churches throughout Florida.  Robert had a passion to preach the gospel and serve alongside others in their journeys of faith.  Robert always had time for those in need. Robert’s servant’s heart for ministry often included visiting the sick, comforting the grieving, and sharing his faith.  Later in life, Robert became a bi-vocational pastor while running several insurance agencies.  He used both platforms to share his faith with others.

Robert is remembered by his family as a devoted husband, father, and faithful servant of Christ. Robert is survived by his wife, Alice (Burke) O’Quinn, his children, Joy Wood, June Mathews, Joel O’Quinn, and Joan Rivera, and his grandchildren Duane Brewer, Amanda Goodhue, James Wood III, Edward Gentgen II, Joshua Wood, Christopher Covert, Jacob Wood, and six great grandchildren.

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.

From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory

Alice Katherine Burke O’Quinn, 86

November 17, 1937 – May 04, 2024

I Want You to Meet My Mom-

I know that most people consider their mom to be the best, and I am sure that they are pretty awesome moms, but I am absolutely certain that my mom is actually the best mom in the world.  She excelled at being a mom, a wife, an educator, and a Christian.

My mom was born on November 17, 1937, in Auburndale FL to George Washington Burke and Aurwilla Kiger Burke.  My mom has always been beautiful, and while I have not seen a picture of her as a baby, I can only imagine how cute she must have been, after all she turned out to be the most beautiful person I have ever seen.  I am not sure when mom accepted Christ as her Savior, but I know it was early in life. Mom said she began praying at a very young age that one day she would meet a nice Christian man to marry… but I will get to that part of the story in a little bit.

Mom would tell me that she was not that good at writing but was always pretty good at math.  Then one day she told me that while in high school, she had entered a statewide writing contest and won, so I guess she was good at writing as well as math.  The prize money was enough to pay for her first year of college at Carson Newman University in Tennessee.  Mom graduated with her bachelor’s degree, she majored in theology and minored in mathematics.  While this was a significant accomplishment for a woman during this time period, mom never bragged about what she achieved academically.  In addition, mom played basketball and golf while in college, she was an athlete as well.  Sometime during her college years, she was a youth counselor at a Christian summer camp.  This is where she met my dad, remember that nice Christian man she had been praying for.  Dad and mom wrote to each other, almost every day to hear daddy tell it, and eventually they got married and stayed married for 64 years, it would have been 65 years this year.  As a wife, my mom was also the best.  My mom loved my father unconditionally and was always a servant in Christ by my father’s side giving him support and showing him love throughout their marriage. Mom loved my dad so much and when my dad passed on 04.25.2024, even though she had end stage Alzheimer’s mom somehow knew he had passed and went to be with him in Heaven 10 days later on 05.04.2024.

Mom used her degree from Carson Newman College to be an educator and began her career as a teacher in Texas while my dad attended seminary school.  She continued to teach when they moved back to Florida at both private schools and public schools for nearly 3 decades.  Mom spent the last decade teaching at Sebastian River Middle School.  Twenty something years after she retired, I still run into her former students who tell me just how much she meant to them.  You see, my mom was a very special educator.  She went to school early everyday and stayed late every day.  I asked her once why she had to go in so early, none of my teachers went in that early.  She explained to me that a student might need her, and she wanted to be there. I found out later that mom knew some of her students came to school hungry, so she had several drawers of food in her classroom and went in early to make sure anyone that was hungry got food.  She would also give them food when they were leaving for the day, just in case. She loved every student she ever taught and made sure they knew it.

My mom was made a mom for the first time when she had my sister Joy.  She went on to have the rest of us not long after that. There are four of us kids, Joy, June, Joel, and Joan.  We grew up knowing that mom loved us, and nothing could ever change that.  Every time we EVER needed her, she was there, with whatever we needed.  She always knew what to say and do to make us feel better.  Whether it was a hug, a kind word, first aid for our boo boos, or anything else we ever needed.  Sometimes her beautiful smile is all we needed because it seemed to make everything better.  Through her actions and words, she taught us to be our best selves, after all she always was.  She never had a bad thing to say about anyone, she always showed kindness and concern to everyone, even when they were not kind to her.  I never saw her be anything but gracious and considerate.  From time to time, I will have people say to me that I am “such a nice person” my standard reply is not really; you should meet my mom. As the four of us grew up and began to have families of our own, my mom became a grandmother and as you can probably guess, my mom excelled at being a grandmother as well. It is hard for me to believe that with all the love she bestowed on the four of us, that she would have enough love leftover for her grandchildren, but she did.  The easiest way for me to explain it is that to be in her presence was to know that you were loved.

My mom was a Christian, and I know that she is in heaven now with daddy.  As previously mentioned, she accepted Jesus Christ at an early age.  She prayed for and married a Christian man who was a preacher.  She raised her four children in the church and taught us to serve the Lord. She served the Lord throughout her life in every part of her life, as a wife, as an educator, as a mom, and as a daughter.  She had a serving heart and took care of her grandmother, her mother and father, her mother-in-law and father-in-law, and her sister when they were toward the end of their lives.  She served at every church she went to and ministered to everyone she met when not at church.  She loved Christ, and through her love for Christ, she loved everyone, I mean everyone.

I am a pretty private person and very selective about the people I call friends, but when I do call a person a friend, one of the first things I will say to them is, I want you to meet my mom. Because I have always wanted them to feel the kind of love I have felt my entire life, it is an extraordinary feeling that comes from being the presence of the best mom in the world.

Thank you for taking the time to meet my mom from Joan O’Quinn Rivera

Alice is remembered by her family as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and faithful servant of Christ. Alice was preceded in death by her husband Robert and survived by their children Joy Wood, June Mathews, Joel O’Quinn, and Joan Rivera, and her grandchildren Gary Brewer, Amanda Goodhue, James Wood, III, Edward Gentgen II, Joshua Wood, Christopher Covert, Jacob Wood, and six great grandchildren.

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.

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