Share
Let the family know you care by sharing this tribute.
John “Johnny” Charles Rice, 61, passed away on September 26, 2012. John is the son of the late Charles and Wilma Skipper Rice of Lexington. He was a husband, father, step-father, grandfather and friend whose passion for life and music will never be forgotten. He was a longtime resident of Lexington and currently resided in Salisbury with his wife Sandra Disher Rice.
Johnny was a 1969 graduate of Lexington Senior High, attended Davidson County Community College and completed numerous Electronics programs. He retired from Kimberly Clark Corporation as an Electronics Technician.
Johnny loved his family and friends so deeply and brought joy to so many of us through his gifted talents of saxophone and guitar, as well as many other musical instruments. He will always be remembered for his love of life, witty sense of humor and contagious smile.
Surviving, in addition to his wife, is daughter, Allison Rice Crowell, husband Lee, and his three beautiful granddaughters Regan, Emilie and Leah of Lexington; daughters, Katelin Rice and Railei Rice of Thomasville with mother Carolyn Cole Rice; Charlene Sawyer of Massachusetts; brothers, David Cappel-Rice and wife Tracy of New Zealand, Larry Rice and wife Mary Young of Raleigh; sister, Karla Jones and husband Rusty of Florida; step-children, Michael Manuel of Salisbury and Heather Manuel Drake of Charlotte.
A celebration of Johnny’s life will be held on Thursday, October 4th at 1:00 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Lexington. Following the service, family and friends will meet at the home of Lee and Allison Crowell, 212 Overbrook Drive in Lexington.
Carolina Cremation of Salisbury, NC is assisting the Rice family. Online condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com.
Ed McCarthy says
The world is not the same without John being here…Even though I haven’t seen him lately,I will really miss him…
Buddy Brinkley says
A great musician and a great friend. We will miss you. I’m praying for your family during this difficult time …
Kendra Fulbright says
John was a great guy and I will miss his music and his smile! May God wrap his arms around his family and give comfort as only he can.
Mark Boyles says
I always love to show up for a gig and know Johnny was “sitting in” with us. It always made the night a joy to play. His incredible sense of humor and wit, and love for the music will remain with me. I later met his extended family and was pleased to find out they are as nice and funny as him. I was shocked to learn of his passing. Much love to all his family and friends in this tough time.
Gail Kiefer Froeschl says
I am so sorry for your loss. Although I only met Johnny twice, his passion for music was obvious. A fond memory is sitting in Sandy and John’s kitchen while Aunt Marion, Marty, and I were entertained.
Sending my love and prayers.
Sandy’s Cousin,
Gail
Janet Reynolds says
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Praying that fond memories help with healing.
Sandy’s Cousin,
Janet Reynolds
Martha Lanier Kelly says
I am one of Johnny’s high school classmates. I am so sorry to hear this news. Wishing you peace and fond memories at this time.
Chip Kirk says
Johnny was my neighbor growing up and he played his saxophone at my mother’s (Evelyn Kirk) funeral. He was always very kind to me and my family. What I remember most about him was his smile. I send my deepest condolences to his family.
Glenn Payne says
Johnny was my next door neighbor many years ago. My condolences to his family and to his brothers and sister.
Deborah Hardister says
Johnny was a remarkable person with an amazing talent. His magnetic smile drew you in instantly. So sorry your hearts are hurting. Prayers that our loving God wraps his arms around you and you find comfort in his Grace. With love and the promise of salvation…Tim and Deborah Hardister, Thomasville, NC
Tom Riggs says
I will always remember Johnny as a dear old friend with an amazing talent. He was a kind human being with a sweet soul and charming smile. I will truly miss him.
I am speaking for the Riggs family when I say, we offer our most sincere love, sympathy and condolences to Johnny’s family during their time of sadness and know that Johnny is resting in God’s arms.