Daphne Berl Lee Rico

Daphne Berl Lee Rico, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on March 18th, 2025, at 2:28 PM, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 71 years old. Daphne was born on August 6th, 1953, in St. George, Utah, and was raised in Mesquite, Nevada by her beautiful parents Berl and LaFaye Lee where she cultivated a life full of love, kindness, and nurturing care.

Daphne, affectionately known as a Daughter, Sister, Mother, Mom, Gammon, Grams, Gwams, Grammy, and Grandma, was the heart and soul of her family. She was predeceased by her father, Berl Ezra Lee, her son Joseph Parsons, grandson Scott (Scotty) McConnell, and granddaughter Daphne Xochilt Wellman. Daphne leaves behind her mother LaFaye Lee. Her children Jennifer McConnell, Yolanda Berrier. (Sean), Tomasa Rico, Amacy Rico (Tasie), Chasity Wellman (Matt), and Xochilt Schroemges (KC). Martha Clem who was like another daughter to her. Her brothers Bik Lee, and Tracy Lee. Her legacy lives on through her 24 grandchildren and 6 soon-to-be 7 great-grandchildren, who were all blessed to know her boundless love.

A devoted and loving mother, Daphne was a constant source of support, guidance, and warmth to everyone she knew. She had a unique way of making others feel at home, welcoming them under her wing as if they were her own. Her home was a safe haven for many, and her caring spirit was a balm to all who sought comfort or a listening ear. As one of her children shared, “Mom was always known for being the glue to our family and kept us all together. She is the catalyst."

Her love extended beyond her immediate family. Daphne was often the first person people turned to when they needed someone to talk to, offering empathy and a listening ear without hesitation. Her words of wisdom, "Better be good," were a constant reminder of her care and concern for everyone around her. She believed in the importance of family, connection, and kindness above all else.

Daphne was known for her love of simple pleasures, including her favorite snacks – Red Vines licorice, Lay's potato chips, Pepsi, Double Bubble bubble gum, and Tootsie Roll suckers. Shopping trips at the mall, reading books, and camping/BBQs in the mountains were among her favorite pastimes. She delighted in the warmth of sitting by a fire, watching the sparks fly into the air, and relishing the beauty of nature. Though she had a fear of bears, they remained her favorite animal.

Daphne's stories and her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who loved her. She leaves behind a lasting impact on her family, friends, and anyone fortunate enough to have known her. She will forever be remembered for her kindness, unwavering support, and boundless love.

Rest in peace, dear Daphne, surrounded by the love you so freely gave to others. Your memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of your family, your friends, and all who were touched by your kindness.

"Woman of beauty, inside and out,

Her love for the Savior, without a doubt.

In her faith, she would always stand,

A true disciple, with Christ's loving hand." - Miranda L. Turner

An evening viewing for family friends will be held on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, from 6-8 pm at Wheeler-Sundberg Funeral Home, 495 South State Street, Orem. Funeral services will be on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 11:00 am at the LDS Chapel located at 225 East 200 North, Orem, with a viewing held that morning from 9:30-10:30 prior to the service. Interment will be in Provo City Cemetery, 610 South State Street, Provo, Utah.

A memorial service will be held in honor of Daphne’s life and legacy. Details will be shared with family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the charity of a GoFundMe account:

Condolences for the family may be expressed on this page.