Joan Hurley Rice, affectionately known as Lady Jane and G-ma, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 3 at the age of 88. Though her time with us has come to a close, her story is one that deserves to be told with a smile.

Born on July 18, 1936, in Washington D.C. to Frank and Mary Hurley with her twin sister Mary Frances, Joan lived a life full of joy, grace, and good humor. She had a knack for making everyone feel at home, whether it was with a warm hug, a home-cooked meal, or a twinkle in her eye that let you know she was about to beat you at cards…….again.

Joan loved nothing more than a spirited round of bridge, Skip-BO, or rummy, and spending holidays surrounded by the people she loved most. Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas—you name it, she made it memorable. She was also a lifelong fan of the Atlanta Braves, and rarely missed a game—cheering from her chair with the passion of a seasoned coach.

She’ll be remembered as a happy, loving, and kind-hearted woman who made the world a brighter place just by being in it. Her legacy lives on through her children - John Reich, Kathleen (Art) Kelley, Tommy (Denise) Reich, Theresa Dobbs - along with her 7 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and extended family.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, May 8 from 2pm - 4pm at Beck Funeral Home in Clayton, GA, and a celebration of her life will be held on Friday, May 9 at 1pm at Saint Helena Catholic Church in Clayton, GA. In honor of Joan, there will be refreshments after the service where guests are encouraged to share stories and maybe even bring a deck of cards.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests any donations be made to The Wilkinson Care Center in Toccoa, GA or Friends for Autism Foundation in Clayton, GA.

Beck Funeral Home, in Clayton, Georgia, is in charge of the arrangements and is honored to serve the family of Joan Hurley Rice. If there are any questions, please call 706-782-9599. An online Memorial Register Book is available at www.beckfuneralhome.com.