LaKeitha Lavette Rice was born on April 9, 1982, to Tracey L. Rice Fowler, in Spartanburg, SC. She was educated in Spartanburg County schools and was a 2000 graduate of Spartanburg High School. She continued her education at Spartanburg Technical College and received an associate's degree in Massage Therapy. She was employed at the Charles Lea Center as a caregiver and at Kenneth Schuler as a cosmetology instructor.

She loved to travel and never met a stranger. Because she was the oldest grandchild and niece, she took care of everyone. She was the family manager. She managed all family trips and affairs and took great pride in doing so. She was very talkative. She was a member of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her stepfather, Emmanuel Fowler.

Left to cherish her fond and loving memories include her loving mother, Tracey Fowler of Spartanburg, SC; siblings, Jaurie Russell and Rayshanda Russell both of Simpsonville, Brandon Nesbitt of Spartanburg, SC, Michae'la (Howard) Ballenger of Inman, SC, Emanda Fowler of Duncan, SC, and Charnea Robinson of Spartanburg, SC; nephews, McKenley Broomfield and Greyson Broomfield both reared in the home; niece, Bellamy Broomfield reared in the home; cousins, Maliesha Rice and Nayeisha Young; maternal grandparents, John and Elaine Rice; and a host of aunts, uncles, other relatives, and friends.

On Monday, December 8, 2025, LaKeitha transitioned at the Prisma Health Hillcrest Hospital. She will be deeply missed.

Yet even in the sorrow of her passing, her light remains. Her laughter still echoes in the memories of those she loved. Her kindness still lingers in the hearts she touched. Her spirit still travels with every journey her family takes, guiding them as she always did. She lived with joy, she served with compassion, and she loved without hesitation.

Her life was a beautiful testimony of strength, generosity, and warmth. And though she is no longer present in the physical, the essence of who she was will continue to shine. Her legacy will forever live in the family she nurtured, the lives she blessed, and the love she so freely gave.