Myrtice Lee Didrence, a devoted Christian woman, passed away at the Beachside Center for Rehabilitation & Healthcare in New Smyrna Beach on January 30, 2024, at the age of 71.

Myrtice was born to Elaine Lupo and Ira D. Miller in Jacksonville, FL on January 18, 1953, and moved to New Smyrna Beach shortly thereafter. In her youth, she pursued equestrian activities, particularly barrel racing, as well as being active in her church choir. She moved to Douglas, Georgia after her parents separated, and graduated from Coffee County High School in 1971. Shortly after, she met her first husband Junior Stapleton, and worked for a newspaper while living in Georgia. She returned to New Smyrna Beach after divorce in the mid 70's, and then made her way out to California. A few years later she once again returned to New Smyrna Beach, and this time she put down roots.

In the late 70's Myrtice met her second husband Bill, working and living in the Fireside Inn, a local bar that he owned in New Smyrna Beach. They later purchased their first home and had 2 daughters, Stephanie and Kristina. Myrtice worked at Kmart while raising her family until she retired in the early 2000's. She persevered after Bill's unfortunate passing and continued to care for her daughters and aging mother.

Myrtice found happiness again several years later when she married Michael, and they spent several joyous years together until he was lost to cancer. She then focused on getting involved in her church and travelling to Tennessee every chance she got. It was then she found her soulmate in John, and they were quickly married after a short engagement.

Myrtice was a fierce patriot, and the only things she cherished more than God or this great country were fast red cars, ice-cold Mountain Dew, and the love of her beloved grandbabies.  She cherished family bonds and embraced life with unwavering faith.

Myrtice leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion and strength. She was preceded in death by her father Ira, mother Elaine, stepmother Donna, husbands John Didrence, Michael Meierstein, and William Martell, siblings Eva Smith and Ira Miller Jr., and grandson David.

She is survived by her daughters, Stephanie (William) Young, and Kristina (Ryan) Massfeller; stepdaughter Patricia (William) Raymond; grandchildren Lilliana, Michael, Sam, and Ben; sister Kathy (Glenn Smith) Miller; aunt and lifelong friend Cynthia (Darryl) Owens Hall, as well as many nieces,  nephews and cousins.

We remember a woman whose kindness, determination, and love touched the hearts of those around her. May her memory bring comfort and inspiration to all who knew her. Services will be held on Thursday, February 15th at 11am at Bella Vista Baptist Church, 3232 S Ridgewood Ave, Edgewater, FL, family reception to immediately follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Edgewater Church of God, 201 S Ridgewood Ave, Ste 9-10, Edgewater, FL.