Cathyleen Olivia Rice

Cathyleen Olivia Rice, “Cat” also known as, “Cathy,” was born on February 10, 1994 to Benjamin and Pearl Rice at Beaufort Memorial Hospital in Beaufort South Carolina. She was the baby of five girls and the big sister to a brother.
Cathyleen passed away on August 12, 2023 in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Wade Hampton High, and went on to further her education at Winthrop Univeristy. Graduating with honors with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with a focus in Journalism. Cat began her career as a journalist for the Lancaster News in Lancaster, South Carolina. She then transitioned her writing talents to Palo Verde Valley Times in Blythe, California. Cathyleen endeavored to advance in her career, and became the Public Information Officer for Palo Verde County. While serving in this capacity, she also assisted the Palo School District by teaching future journalist the basics of english, writing and reporting. Cat also served as the Chief Public Information Officer for the National NAACP, West Coast Division. Upon moving to Wyoming, Cathyleen served as the Public Information Officer for the City of Cheyenne, where she served under Mayor Patrick Collins.
Cathyleen was preceded in death by her Grandmothers, Pearl Garvin and Bessie McPherson; her Great-Grandmother Nellie Rice; her Grandfathers Amos Garvin and Earl Ferguson.
She is survived by her Father and Mother Benjamin and Pearl Rice of Garnett, South Carolina. Four Sisters, Karen (Nate) Pinckney of Garnett, South Carolina; Corinthia Rice of Blythewood, South Carolina; Coleathia Rice of Sterling, Virginia and Pearleen Rice of Savannah, GA. One brother, Joquan Wright of Hinesville, GA. A host of Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and Friends.
At an early age, “Cat,” loved writing poetry, drawing, dancing, and spending time outdoors. She was always a ray of sunshine and was loved by her family, peers, and community. Cat was creative and always seeking adventures; she loved traveling, reading, and spending time with her family. Her smile was infectious and she was wise beyond her years. She was always willing and ready to help and her gestures of kindness were heartfelt and widespread. Cat lived a fearlessly amazing life, no challenge was too hard and no problem was too big. She lived well, laughed often and loved unconditionally. She was and will forever be an inspiration to us all.