Edmund Rice, fourth of seven sons, was born in Ireland at Westcourt, Callan, on June 1st, 1762.

Because of a long period of religious persecution in Ireland, Edmund attended Moate Lane Hedge School in Callan. At the age of 17 he was apprenticed to his uncle, Michael Rice, owner of a growing export business in Waterford City.

He married about the age of 25. Two years later his wife died. It is thought she died from injuries received in a riding accident. His daughter, who outlived Edmund, was an invalid all her life.

In 1795 his uncle died and Edmund succeeded him in his business. He was now a wealthy man, noted for his charity to the poor. But he wanted to do more. So he sold his business and opened his first school in converted stables, in New Street, Waterford, in 1802. A year later he moved to his first permanent school at Mount Sion, Waterford, just outside the city.

In 1808, with some companions, he made vows in the presence of Bishop Power. This ceremony took place in the Presentation Convent Chapel. In 1820 Pope Pius VII approved the new congregation and Edmund Rice was elected first Superior General.

On the 29th of August, 1844, Edmund died in Mount Sion, Waterford, where his remains now repose in a beautiful chapel. Edmund was beatified in Rome on Sunday, 6th October 1996.

His feast day is May 5th.