I am a soldier in the army of God; I won’t give up until God calls me home….

Esther Lee Campbell Grice, daughter of the late Capers and Anna Lucille Campbell was born in the Zion Community of Marion County on May 22, 1933.  She was affectionately called “Sug” by many who knew her well.  Her mother died while she was only three years old.  She grew up during her early years under the loving care of her father, Capers; stepmother Evelyn Page; and her eldest sister, Evelene Page.  Esther later moved to Dillon, SC where she attended Dillon County Schools and received her high school diploma upon graduation.  She was a former member of Bethel AME Church, and later joined St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church, where she worked diligently and faithfully.  A few years later, she married Bobby R. Grice of Lake View, and they were blessed with 8 children.
Esther is known for her generosity and over-powering will to serve God and others.  She has served as chairperson of the St. Mark Deaconess Board; and as teacher of the Intermediate Sunday School Class for 30 years.  She was a member and former secretary of the Gospel Choir; President of the Flower Club; President of the Missionary Circle; and she was also  Co-Chairperson of the Berea Deaconess Board.  Her energy seemed tireless in her work for the Lord.
Esther formerly worked in the Old Selma Hosiery in Dillon, and as a teacher’s aide in the Dillon County Schools, and the Dillon-Marion Headstart Program.  She later became a homemaker and caretaker for her grandchildren.
Esther Grice departed this life on Monday, May 17, 2010 at her home.  One son, Larry; four sisters, Cora Bell Hawk, Rosa Lee Breeden, Evelene Page, and Geneva Campbell; one brother, Marcell; and two stepsisters, Patty Lee and Lou Ella Anderson preceded her in death.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Bobby Grice.
Her memories will be cherished by her five sons, Bobby (Claudia) of Alexandria, VA; Randy (Roxie); Billy (Gladys); Michael (Rose); Charles (Marcella); all of Dillon, SC; two daughters, Betty (Cleo) Richardson of Columbia, SC; Barbara (Berry) Fairley of Raleigh, NC, 17 Grandchildren, 11 Great-grandchildren, 2 sisters-in-law; Hattie Grice and Louise Wilson; 1 brother-in-law, Willie Mack Grice, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
The funeral was held Thursday, May 20, 2010 at New St. Mark Baptist Church in Dillon and burial followed in the church cemetery.  House of Thomas Funeral Home was in charge.