Alean James Rich, 71, of Wallace died Sunday, January 10, 2010 at her residence.

She was born March 25, 1938 in Duplin County and was the daughter of the late Robert E. and Nolie Caison James. She was also predeceased by her husband, Robert D. Rich in 1999.

Surviving are her children, Joni Rich Cottle and husband, David of Magnolia and Robert "Rob" D. Rich, Jr. of Wallace; grandchildren, Elizabeth Ashley Cottle and David Carroll Cottle; brother, Bobby James and wife, Barbara of Milton, Florida and sister-in-law, Elizabeth R. Johnson of Wilmington.

The family will receive friends 10:00 am to 12:00 Noon Wednesday, January 13, 2010 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home in Wallace.

Graveside funeral service will be 2:00 pm Wednesday, January 13, 2010 at Hopewell Presbyterian Church Cemetery with the Reverend Dustin Gillespie officiating.

Alean was a devoted mother, grandmother and sister who loved her family dearly. She found great joy in the simplest things, but her greatest joy was family. Being a people's person, Alean never met a stranger. She had a warm heart and generous spirit and was a good neighbor and true friend. She enjoyed vegetable gardening and working with flowers. Alean will be remembered for her generous nature, her love for family and friends and her steadfast faith in God.

Memorial gifts may be given to Carolina East Home Care and Hospice, PO Box 887, Kenansville, NC 28349.

You may send your condolences to the family below.