William C. Rice

William Crate Rice, Sr., died peacefully at Sterling Place Group Home in Mt. Sterling, Ohio on Saturday, July 27, 2019 at the age of 88.  William was preceded in death by his parents Walter and Susie Meade Rice, his wife of 62 years, Audrey Joy Persinger Rice and his son William “Puff” Rice, Jr.  He is survived by his children Susan E. Rice and her special friend Gordon Jones of Williamsport, Ohio, Anthony L. and Donna Rice of Mt. Sterling, Walter E. and Heather Rice of Chillicothe, Ohio, six grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.  William was born on January 2, 1931 in Collista, Kentucky.  He graduated from Monroe High School, Class of 1950, in Five Points, Ohio.  William served in the United States Army, 3^rd Infantry Division, earning his Combat Infantry Badge on the front lines during the Korean Conflict 1951-1952.  After his service, William began working for Westinghouse Corp. in Columbus until his retirement as a Supervisor.  Upon his retirement, William and Audrey moved to Saint Petersburg, Florida for several years enjoying the retired life, fishing Florida waters, going to flea markets and playing Bingo. Upon the death of their eldest son, they moved back to Circleville.  William did not have an interest in social organizations however he was an Honorary Kentucky Colonel.  As per William’s wishes, there will be no services or visitation.  He chose cremation and a private family memorial and celebration of his life.  The Porter-Tidd Funeral Home & Crematory, 331 West Main St., Mt. Sterling, OH 43143, assisted the family.  Please visit www.tiddfuneralservice.com to share your favorite memory of William or to send your condolences to his family.