James (Jim) Edwin Rice Jr., age 72, of Woodstock, Georgia, passed away on Thursday, July 11, 2019 after a long battle with cancer.
James was born to the late James Edwin and Nellie D. Rice on May 16, 1947 in Miami, Florida.
James was a kind man with many talents and a great sense of humor, who lovingly teased those around him. He had a heart of gold and cared deeply for his wife and church family at St. Andrew United Methodist Church.
James honorably served his country in the US Marine Corp during the Vietnam War. Affectionately nicknamed “Jarhead” by family members who served in the Army, he was decorated with the Presidential Unit Citation, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Rifle Expert Badge.
James was an avid gardener, photographer and golfer. The most joy came from his years of meticulous counted cross stitch projects. His collection includes pieces so intricate they required a magnifying glass to obtain the finest of details. He was a man of many talents and was always coming up with new ideas and projects.
James was active in numerous organizations including The Order of Eastern Star and other Masonic bodies. He was a member of Hickory Chapter #466, currently serving as Worthy Patron and he often mentored others. Last month James achieved his longtime dream by being appointed Grand Sentinel of Georgia Grand Chapter.
James is preceded in death by his father, James Edwin Rice; mother, Nellie D. Rice; and brother, Rodney Rice. He is survived by his wife, Ruth Ann Rice; step son, Michael A. Allen and wife, Kelly; step daughter, Dawn M. (Allen) Cook and husband, Perry; sister, Patti Ann Rice, NY; mother-in-law, Edith V. Leonard, OH; brother- in-law, Ronald H. Leonard, OH; grandchildren, Zachary Allen, Morgan (Allen) Higdon and Austin Cook; and great-granddaughter, Paisley Higdon.
Celebration of Life Services will be held at 3:00 PM on Sunday, July 21, 2019 at St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 3455 Canton Road, Marietta, GA 30066.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the St. Andrew UMC Music Fund or to the Georgia Grand Chapter General Fund would be gratefully appreciated.
Online condolences may be made at www.woodstockfuneralhome.com.
