Richard A. Rice

The family of Richard A. Rice announce the passing of their beloved father, brother, grandfather and great grandfather on May 16, 2024.   He is preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Gisela Martha Rice.  He is survived by his 2 daughters, Patricia R. Bennet (Michael) of Clemson SC and Katherine R. Raines of Wilmington.   Grandchildren, Brian R. Bennett of Concord, NC, Jacob M. Bennett (Amanda) of West Palm Beach, Florida and Anna Marie Raines of Wilmington.   One great-grandchild, Charlotte M. Bennet. A sister, Sharon Rice of Galena Kansas.

Richard was born November 29, 1932 in Galena, Kansas.  At the age of 18 he enlisted in the US Air Force where he dutifully served for 20 years working and flying on C-130 aircraft. He truly loved serving his country and loved telling the stories of his travels.  He retired at Pope Air Force Base, Fayetteville, NC After retirement he worked several jobs in Fayetteville, but the coast was calling them to be closer to the water.  They moved to Shallotte, NC where he spent many days on the water, crabbing, fishing and collecting clams and oysters to sell.  He began a soft-shell crab business with Holden Seafood in Shallotte.  He enjoyed woodworking, having a bountiful garden and spending time with his daughters and grandchildren.  Richard and Gisela were founding members of St. Luke Lutheran Church, Ocean Isle Beach, NC which was started in 1989 and is still his church family.

In 2006, they moved to Wilmington.  For the past 3 years, he lived at Arbor Landing Independent Living at Compass Point where he leaves many friends that have touched his life.  

He has gone to be with his beloved wife and our Lord and Savior.  What a bountiful life he led.  We will miss him terribly.  

A service will be held on May 25th at 2:00 pm at the church columbarium located in the back of St. Luke Lutheran Church, Ocean Isle Beach.   

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Luke Lutheran Church of Ocean Isle Beach and to The Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Hospice.  

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