Sandra L. (Netti) Rice

Little Falls, NY - Sandra L. (Sandy) Rice, 69, a lifelong Mohawk Valley resident, passed away on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at Little Falls Hospital, with her loving family by her side.

She was born on September 7, 1955, in Herkimer, the daughter of the late Joseph and Effie (Gardner) Netti. Sandy was a graduate of Herkimer High School, Class of 1973.

On November 3, 1974, Sandy was united in marriage to Bertram J. Rice at the First United Methodist Church in Herkimer. Bert and Sandy’s loving relationship was always centered around their family.

Sandy was once employed by Herkimer Elementary School.  For over 20 years, she worked as a Primary Mental Health Project Associate. Sandy cherished her career with the district and was blessed with lifelong friendships with several of her colleagues. She truly enjoyed working with her students and often referred to her career as a gift. After having to take an early retirement, Sandy worked part time for a short while at the former Herkimer Pizza Hut.

 Sandy spent her life dedicated to helping others. She was often referred to as everyone’s “Second Mom”, a title she proudly fulfilled. Sandy once served on the Village of Herkimer’s Youth Recreation Committee, as a Girl Scout Troop Leader, Pop Warner Cheer Coach, Herkimer Varsity Cheer Coach and a volunteer at the Rape Crisis Center. Sandy had a loving nature and was always willing to help anyone who needed it.

Sandy’s proudest accomplishment was creating her family. She loved being active in her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and activities. She loved watching “The Big Bang Theory” with Bert before bed and it always brought them laughter. She was happiest when her family was together. She will be deeply missed.

Survivors include her beloved husband of 50 years, Bertram (Bert); her daughter, Lisa Reile and husband Brian; her son, Bertram J. (Bert) Rice and Girlfriend Nancy; her loving grandchildren, Dylan, Gianna,( whom she proudly raised as her own)Brendan, Carson, Will, Madison, and Brian; sisters, Linda Follmer and husband Edward and Debbie Sweeney and husband Phil; brothers, Michael Netti and Mark Netti and wife Tammi; and sister-in-law Mary Netti; Mother in Law, Cecile Rice, In-laws, Robert Rice and wife Mary Ann; Beverly Ciuffo, Aunt Rita Orcutt and several nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends.

She was pre-deceased by an infant son, Jason Rice; daughter, Tamara Rice; and brothers, Joseph Netti and James Netti; sister-in-law, Barbara Netti, Father-in law, Robert Rice, Brother-in-law, Gaspar Ciuffo and several other cherished family members.

In keeping with Sandy’s wishes, funeral services will be private and held at the convenience of her family. Arrangements are under the caring guidance of the locally owned and family operated, Vincent A. Enea Funeral Service, (next to Hannaford Markets), 527 E. Albany St., Herkimer, NY.

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