JC graduated from Sims High School in Union, SC in June of 1950. A year later he enlisted in the United States Army. In 1953, he married the love of his life Helen Jeter. They moved from several military bases before being stationed at Fort Ord, CA in 1958. JC proudly served his country for 20 years before retiring in 1971. JC served in the Korean War as well as two tours in the Vietnam War. He received several accolades throughout his career and took pride in being called a veteran. In 1993, JC retired again after working a civil service job for 22 years.
JC was a dedicated member of New Hope Baptist Church for over 25 years. He served faithfully on the Deacon Board, Trustee Board, as a Church Treasurer, Member of the Male Chorus, Custodian and a Group Captain. JC enjoyed going on walks, working in his garden, reading any book he could get his hands on and watching the news & sports. He also enjoyed travelling and spending time with his family. He was loved by all who were blessed to meet him and he will truly be missed.
He is preceded in death by his parents Willie and Catherine Rice, his step-mother, Iola Rice, his loving wife Helen Rice, and sisters Mae Browning, Ruthel Cobbs and Katherine Smith.
He leaves to mourn his passing: his daughters: Elizabeth Barnard (Kenny Barnard) of Philadelphia, PA, Brenda Brabham of Philadelphia, PA, Joyce Reddic (Willie Reddic) of Rancho Cordova, CA, Loral Anderson of Aliso Viejo, CA, Jacqueline Greenwell (Dwight Greenwell) of Seaside, CA and Ruby Price (Lawrence Price) of Fountain, CO: his brother Robert Rice of Seaside, CA, sisters Myrtle Fuller of Cleveland, OH, Juliet Rice of Staten Island, NY and Lela Pearl Gilliam of Staten Island, NY: 21 Grandchildren, 9 Great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins & friends.
