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Thomas Jennings Rice was born in Lancaster County, Virginia on May 19, 1928 to Harry Eugene and Geneva Davenport Rice. Tom passed away on July 9, 2021 at the age of 93 in Roanoke, Virginia. He is survived by his sister Elizabeth Rice Bowling, brother Wayne Eugene Rice, sister-in-laws Mary Ellen Adkins Dempsey, Alice Adkins Robinson, and Elizabeth H. Rice, nephews Joe and David Dempsey, and nieces Susan McConnell, and Sarah Elizabeth Rice.
Tom and his late wife, Martha, were married on July 22, 1950, and enjoyed a happy and loving relationship for over 70 years. As a youth, Tom was admired for this physical strength and tenacity. Tom’s professional life as a builder and real estate broker gave him the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life who quickly grew to love him for his charm and personality.
Tom, who was a voting member of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, was baptized when he was twelve years old. Tom spent the majority of his life devoted to bible study and teaching.
The family would like to thank the nursing staff of Our Lady of the Valley for the exceptional love, care and support shown to Tom and his family.
The care of Mr. Rice has been entrusted to the Tharp Funeral Home in Bedford, Virginia. Online condolences may be shared with the family at bedfordoffice@tharpfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc., 900 Red Mills Road, Wallkill, NY 12589.
A memorial service, officiated by Mr. David Gobel of Springfield, will be held on August 7, 2021 at 2:00 PM via Zoom. Please contact Elizabeth Bowling at Elizbowling37@gmail.com or Wayne Rice at waynerice816@gmail.com for more information. Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Roanoke is assisting the family.