Mariam Dice

Mariam L. Dice, age 73, of Lamar, passed away Sunday afternoon, November 19, 2017, surrounded by her family at her home.      Mariam was born September 18, 1944, at Benton, Illinois, to Dillard and Coy (Wiggins) Browning.  She was married to Bill Dice for 26 years and later to Eugene Amatto for a short time.  Mariam was preceded in death by her parents; her only brother, Edd Browning; a son, Scott Dice; and an infant granddaughter, Rose Mary Dice.      A natural caregiver, Mariam never missed an opportunity to be of service to others.  She was a great cook and delighted in setting a bountiful table for family and friends, as well as baking thousands of cookies for countless Red Cross blood drives and treats for police, firefighters, and emergency responders.  Her interest in collecting plates and ribbons resulted in a unique and personal décor style in her home and a conversation starter for visitors.  She was an animal lover with a soft spot in her heart and home for numerous cats.        Many will remember Mariam as a dependable co-worker at O’Sullivan Industries, an in-home health aide, a CNA at Phoebe’s Guest House, or the hospitable manager of Bristol Manor.  She had been an active member of Lamar Rebekahs and had served as Worthy Matron in the Order of Eastern Star.  Mariam was a charter member of Barton County Eagles Club and an honorary member of the Wind Riders Harley group of Walker, Missouri.      Survivors include her four children, twin sons, Ronnie and Donnie Dice, of the home, Stanley “Bud” (Sherry) Dice, Nevada, Missouri, and daughter, Penny (Krazy Dave) Pratt, Lamar; a sister-in-law, Donna Browning, Carthage; seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; three nephews; one niece; and a host of friends.  Mariam was looking forward to welcoming her seventh great-grandchild to the family this coming August.       The family will receive friends from noon until 1:00 p.m. Friday, November 24th at Daniel Funeral Home, followed by an informal service to honor Mariam with shared memories beginning at 1:00 p.m. – please come prepared to tell your favorite “Mariam Story”.   Burial will be in Olive Branch Cemetery northeast of Sheldon, Missouri.      Memorial contributions are suggested to the Dice family in care of Daniel Funeral Home.