James Rice

James T. Rice Sr., went to his heavenly home on Monday, February 22, 2021, at the age of 84.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford A. Rice, Sr. and Sarah Catherine Rice; a brother, Clifford A. (Sonny) Rice, Jr.  He is survived by his wife, Linda Tillman Rice; a son James T (Tom) Rice, Jr. and a daughter, Desiray Mary Rice; a brother, Maurice Rice and niece, Tricia Rice, and nephew, Michael Rice (Michelle); a grandson, Alex Rice (Tiffany); and great-granddaughter, Abby,  A native of Richmond, Virginia, he graduated from the University of Richmond.  Upon graduation he earned his CPA Certificate in the field of accounting.  He served in the Army-National Guard prior to his career working for the Richmond, Fredericksburg & Potomac Railroad, The Florida East Coast Railway and the CSX Railroad from which he retired.  He later received two Masters Degrees from the University of North Florida  - a Masters of Business Administration and a Masters of Human Resources Management.  He was an active participant in the Boy Scout Program, having been a Scoutmaster.  He served two three-year terms on the Board of Governors and one term as Treasurer of San Jose Country Club, Jacksonville, FL.  He was a longtime member of the San Jose Yacht Club, serving as Commodore in 1995.  In 1996 he was elected as a member of the International Order of the Blue Gavel, a worldwide organization consisting of past Commodores of Yacht Clubs.  A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, February 25, at 1:00 P.M. at Highland Park Baptist Church,  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Highland Park Baptist Church, 1327 Grove Lane, Mount Airy, NC 27030