Arlene Mary Rice

Peacefully at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 of Arlene Rice (nee MacIntyre) of Charlottetown, age 70 years. Dear mother of Ellen (Tim) LeGrandeur and Bobby Rice (their father, Eddie Rice-deceased). Also survived by three loving grandchildren Clark and Frank LeGrandeur and Griffin Murphy Rice (his mother Jodi Murphy); her brother Jimmy MacIntyre; her partner Richard Vickerson and her sisters-in-law Eileen and Erica MacIntyre. Predeceased by her parents Leonard and Bernadette (nee Campbell) MacIntyre and her brothers Joe and Dwayne MacIntyre.

Arlene filled her life with love, laughter, and learning.

Arlene grew up in Cardigan with her 3 brothers and parents that she had many fond memories of. She moved to Charlottetown and started her family and worked as a receptionist at Dr. Foster’s office where she developed close friendships that lasted many years. Arlene learned to sail and spent many years sailing on an all-female crew at the Charlottetown Yacht Club and enjoyed the excitement of Wednesday race nights.

Over 30 years ago, she began an interior design business which evolved into Details Fine Art Gallery, one of the premier galleries in Atlantic Canada featuring well-known Canadian and international artists.

Arlene’s warmth made everyone who entered feel welcome. The gallery became a gathering place for lively discussion and much laughter which often led to wonderful friendships. Being surrounded by a circle of artists, it seemed inevitable that Arlene’s innate talent would surface, and she became an accomplished painter herself.

Arlene embraced new challenges and adventures, large and small. Whether it was learning to pipe macarons or making chiles en nogada, playing Pictionary with her family and friends, long walks on the beach, she was open to all. Travelling was also a particular love. One of her biggest joys was spending time with grandchildren and cheering on Griffin at his hockey games.

Her passion for preserving island history led her to serve on the Charlottetown Heritage Board. And recently she gathered neighbours’ support to have West Street designated as a heritage streetscape.

Arlene faced life’s challenges with grace and courage and was a dear friend to many. May her spirit live on through all who were so fortunate to know her.

No visitation or funeral service by personal request. A private interment service will be held at the All Saints Parish Cemetery, Cardigan. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to the PEI Cancer Treatment Centre or the Island Nature Trust. Arrangements entrusted to the Hennessey Cutcliffe Charlottetown Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.islandowned.ca