Esther Vida Rich

Esther Vida Rich, age 85, passed away at NHC Maury Regional in Columbia, Tennessee June 10, 2021.

Esther was born March 28, 1936, in Alamosa Colorado. There she spent her childhood and graduated from Alamosa High school. Following graduation, Esther spent two years at Loretto Heights nursing college before she had a whirlwind romance with the love of her life Willson “Bill” C. Rich. After only four months they were married in September of 1956 and they would spend the next 12 years being stationed around the world with the United States Army. They spent time in France where her first daughter was born, and Germany, and many other locations. They returned home to Pennsylvania, before a few more moves to Illinois, and finally, they settled for a while in Sugarland, TX. In Texas, Esther retired from Texas Children’s Hospital after devoting over 25 years there as a Unit Clerk. Throughout her life, Esther was the consummate homemaker. Bill often referred to her as Esther “Crocker” as she was a fantastic cook. She always kept an open and welcome home, especially to her daughters’ friends. Esther and Bill made their final move to Columbia, in 2006 to be near their family. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Esther is deeply loved by all who knew her and she will be missed.

Esther is survived by her daughters: Susan (Michael) Hoch and Natalie (Joel) Rainey; grandchildren: Jared Rainey, Kjersteen Rainey, and Keely Hoch; brother: James A. Maddux; many beloved nieces and nephews; and her k-9 companion Moosie. Esther is preceded in death by her husband Bill C. Rich and sisters: Irene Mott and Agnes Mott.

The family will visit with friends Sunday, June 13, 2021, at Williams Funeral Home from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM. A graveside service for Ms. Esther will be held on Monday, June 14, 2021 at 10:00 AM at Polk Memorial Gardens.

Williams Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences can be given to the family online at www.williamsfh.com