Rita Mae Vice

Rita Mae Vice, born on November 17, 1946, departed this world on March 17, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, warmth, and cherished memories. A devoted phlebotomist by profession, Rita dedicated her life to caring for others—a reflection of her kind spirit and nurturing soul.

Rita was married to Clifford Vice for many beautiful years, and their bond served as a hallmark of enduring love, partnership, and family values. Together, they created a home where laughter and affection thrived, building a family that Rita was proud to call her own.

Her memory will be cherished by her children Emile Mistretta Jr. (Erin), Mark Anthony Mistretta (Susan), Becki Williams (Mark), Paula Redferin (Jeff), and Cassie Briggs (Bobby). Her children were not just her pride and joy; they were the very essence of her identity. Rita’s love extended beyond her children as she embraced her roles as a doting grandmother and great-grandmother to 9 grandchildren, 18 great-grand children, and 1 on the way. She embraced them with open arms, reveling in every moment shared with her grandchildren, their laughter echoing through her heart.

Rita is also survived by her beloved siblings: David Comeaux, Jack Comeaux, Barbara Ann Boudreaux, and Delores Cooper. The bonds they shared nurtured her spirit, and their memories will remain vivid in the hearts of all who knew her.

Throughout her life, Rita enjoyed the simple pleasures, often curling up with her family to watch episodes of Little House on the Prairie or gripping true crime stories that captured her imagination. Yet, it was indeed the time spent with her family that she treasured most deeply, filling her days with joy and love.

Rita is preceded in death by her cherished husband, Clifford Vice, her parents, Ceasar Comeaux and Evelyn Comeaux, and two sisters Patsy Graffeo and Sandra Boudreaux. While their presence is dearly missed, the lessons they imparted and the love they shared will forever linger in the lives of those they touched.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Rita’s extraordinary life on March 21, 2025, at the Mitchell Chapel Church of God in Poplarville, Mississippi. A visitation will be held from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, followed by a funeral service starting at 4:00 PM. In coming together, we honor a remarkable woman whose spirit lives on through the love she fostered and the countless memories she left behind. Rita Mae Vice will always be remembered as a beacon of care and compassion, a devoted mother, sister, and friend, whose heart was as vast as the love she shared with all.