Robert Bryant Rice

Born December 27, 1954 in Jacksonville, FL. to Mary Margaret Bingham and Merle Rice, Robert grew up in Jacksonville, FL, Pensacola, FL. and Virginia Beach, VA. He graduated from Princess Anne High School in 1972, and obtained Eagle Scout status. In 1976, he graduated from the University of Virginia, Charlottesville, and followed in his father’s footsteps, becoming a Naval Aviator.

Robert first served on Guam Island, at NAS Agana flying SAR (UH-1Ns). He survived a crash landing after losing a tail rotor. Later he flew SH-2Fs (HSL-32) (ASW) aboard the USS McCandless (FF-1084). Then he was Navy flight instructor in Pensacola, FL. teaching in TH-57s and survived another crash incident and retired. Always a traveler of the world, he worked privately in Saudi Arabia many years before the first gulf war. Following the war, he moved home to Norfolk, VA and began his career as a technical project manager for Newport News Shipbuilding obtaining his PMP certification.

Robert is survived by his brothers, Merle A. Rice and his wife Kandie of Jacksonville, FL., and Ronald N. Rice and his wife Karen of Manassas, VA. He is further survived by cousins, nieces, nephews, and other relatives and many many friends. He was preceded in death by both his parents. Robert devoted much of his time and energy as a caregiver to his Mother “Margie” until she passed away.

He was an avid racquetball player, bicyclist and outdoorsman, traveling to participate with friends in Minnesota, Amsterdam and Germany. He loved participating with his brother Ron in Go-Cart Racing. He will be remembered for his intelligence, quick wit, spirit of adventure and the tenaciousness that allowed him to achieve in many diverse endeavors. He is remembered as a wonderful loving son, brother, a great colleague, and wonderful giving friend. He was always a source of wisdom and positive inspiration to those around him.

Visitation will be held Monday, August 29th, 2011 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., with a service at 4 p.m. at Rosewood Kellum Funeral Home, 601 N. Witchduck Road, Virginia Beach, VA. He will be cremated per his wishes. Relatives and friends are welcome at Robert’s service and the reception at Rosewood Kellum immediately following the service.