James Wade Rice was born on June 3rd 1944 in Clay, Kentucky to the late Wade E Rice and Millie Nunn who preceded him in death. James received his education at Rosenwald elementary and high school in providence, KY. During this time he found his passion for cooking at the age of 16. James then moved to Evansville, IN where he worked as a cook for Sheraton Hotel. Later in 1976 he moved to Chicago, Il and became a cook for AON, Hilton Hotel, and Aramark. He later worked at the University of Chicago where cooked and did janitorial work.
James married his wife Ada Rice to whom he has been married to for 38 years, and in this union a beautiful baby girl Nicole was born.
James loved to cook, clean and make people laugh. James cooked for weddings, & other special events. James specialty food was meatballs, smothered potatoes, and leg of lamb. James didn't hesitate to help anyone that needed a meal. In cleaning, James loved hardwood floors and will clean floors until you were able to see yourself in them. James personality drew people to him and he was well loved.
James loved church and loved attending church. On September 18th 2016, James decided to turn his life over to the lord and joined Starlight St James under the leadership of the late Pastor Charles B Bradford; He later got baptized on October 2nd 2016. James was a faithful member until he transitioned to be with the lord on Thursday November 10th, 2022. .
James leaves to cherish the memories of: His wife Ada ( Doris) Rice, His devoted daughter Nicole Rice- Smith ( Eddie) of Chicago, IL. His children from previous marriage, Brian Rice, Miguel Rice, Sheila Rice and Cynthia Rice. His sisters, Sarah Rice, Francis Rice, Mary Elizabeth Rice, and Martha Ann Rice. His brothers, Joel Rice and Richard Lloyd Rice. A host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
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