Robert Ray Rice, 85, passed away Thursday, July 12, 2018 in Bryan, Texas. Service: 11 a.m. Monday, July 16, 2018 at Wiley Funeral Home. Interment: Fall Creek Cemetery. Lie in state Sunday, July 15, 2018 at the funeral home.
Robert was born December 17, 1932 in Cleburne to Henry and Grace Chester Rice. He married Twylah Massey on January 8, 1960. He served in the U.S. Air Force and was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Cleburne and Joshua. Robert was the best mechanic, knew how to run a business and was taught to fly by his own nephew.
My father-in-law was the sweetest and kindest man, I have ever met. He loved his grandkids more than life, and always loved hearing about their life and what they have been up to. I don’t think I ever heard him say a negative thing about anyone. Even in his final days, he always had a smile on his face and would make you laugh about something. He will truly be missed. Karen Rice
My dad, the greatest man I ever met or had the pleasure to know. He taught me patience, which I struggle, obedience to family in which I struggle. Honesty, I strive for every day. Be happy Rod, he would tell me, I try. And love the woman you are with as if there is no other. Bye, dad, love you, catch you in the hereafter and y’all need to tell aunt Lou and uncle Freddy and mom to make room, when I get to you in the future, we are going to be running that place. Rod Rice
He was preceded in death by his wife on May 4, 2018; and siblings, Eddie Bee Chester, Alma Rhe Stephens, Loy Austin Rice, Troy “Cotton” Rice and Jenny Dale Davis.
Survivors: Children, Ricky Whitehead, Ronnie and wife Vicki Whitehead, Roger and wife Karen Rice, Paula and husband Russell Sheehan, Roderick Rice, Patta and husband DK Potter; 12 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.
