William Ray Rice

William Ray Rice, age 89 of Cornelia, Georgia took his heavenly flight home to be with the Lord on Friday, October 07, 2022 at his residence surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Union County, Georgia on October 14, 1932, he was a son of the late John Evon “J.E.” & Rose Southers Rice. Ray served his country proudly in the United States Army. He worked in the textile industry with Clarkesville Mill where he retired after 43 years of dedicated service. Ray was a faithful member of New Hope Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon, former Sunday School Teacher, and Sunday School Director for many years. His humble spirit, desire to help others, and loving nature exuded the love that Christ has for us all. Most of all, Ray was a devoted husband, Dad, & Papa who enjoyed spending time with all of his family. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by his son, Duane Edward Rice; sisters & brothers-in-law, Lucille Rice Powell & Milton Powell, Lorraine Rice Goss & Mack Goss; brothers, J.W. Rice & Leroy Rice.

Survivors include his loving wife of 59 years, Maxine Franklin Rice of Cornelia, GA; sons & daughters-in-law, David & Melanie Rice of Clarkesville, GA; Donald & Melissa Rice of Cornelia, GA; Daryl & Misty Rice of Demorest, GA; grandchildren, Brandon Shook, Haley Rice, Dylan Rice, Connor Rice, & Carter Rice; sister-in-law, Oveline Rice of Clarkesville, GA; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, & a host of friends.

Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 12, 2022 at New Hope Baptist Church with Rev. Chris York & Rev. Robert Nix officiating. Interment will follow in the Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 11, 2022.

Flowers are accepted or the family requests that memorial donations be made to Gideon’s International, c/o Habersham North Camp, P.O. Box 1855, Clarkesville, GA. 30523

The family would like to express their deepest appreciation to the staff of Pruitt Health Hospice for their excellent care.

An online guest registry is available for the Rice family at www.HillsideMemorialChapel.com

Arrangements are in the care & professional direction of Hillside Memorial Chapel & Gardens of Clarkesville, Georgia. (706) 754-6256