Bill Bo Rice

May 12, 2016

Bill Bo Rice, 90, of Pensacola joined his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on May 9, 2016. He was born in Catlettsburg, Kentucky on July 25, 1925, to Lillie and Thomas Rice. Bill joined the U.S. Navy upon turning 17 in 1942, and retired after 30 years of service. He was a veteran of World War II and the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He specialized in maintaining the Navy’s latest jet fighters as a sailor and an officer aboard aircraft carriers at sea.

In his leisure time, Bill enjoyed flying, golfing, and running. He usually placed very well in the races he ran and he was recognized at the age of 78 for shooting his age in a round of golf. He took all of the recognition in stride as he participated in the sports for sheer enjoyment.

Being the great storyteller that he was, Bill often entertained with his variety of stories in gatherings at home and out with friends. It was not unusual for him to strike up a conversation with a stranger and relay one of his stories. Affectionately known as “Pappy” to his grandchildren, Bill enjoyed spending time with them and sharing his stories. Because many of the stories also carried life lessons, the grandchildren referred to them as “Pappy’s Tips.” One grandson retold a favorite one for a school class project. Bill’s now-grown grandchildren still recount some of his stories that impacted their lives.

Mr. Rice was an active member of the Campus Church in Pensacola and enjoyed living his Christian faith. He had a zeal for sharing God’s Plan for Man’s Salvation. Sincerely concerned, he wanted everyone he loved and cared about to know God in a personal way as their Lord and Savior. Bill wanted all to receive God’s gift of eternal life.

Blessed to be in his life and left to cherish his memory are his children, Stephen Rice (Nancy), Bart Rice, Terri Long, and Kevin Williams (Terri); grandchildren, Trisha Hollings, David Rice, Jessica Long, Jenny Long, Joshua Long, Lauren Williams; an honorary granddaughter, Sarah Hayes; and ten great-grandchildren.

Bill was predeceased by Marilyn, his beloved wife of 42 years; his parents; and seven brothers and sisters.

Services will be held Thursday, May 19, 2016, at the Pensacola Christian College’s Mullenix Chapel, 4504 Rawson Lane. Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. with the funeral to follow at 11:30 a.m. with Pastor Denis McBride officiating.

Burial will follow at Barrancas National Cemetery on Naval Air Station Pensacola.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to “Rejoice in the Lord TV” telecast at the Campus Church of Pensacola Christian College. Gifts can be sent to: Rejoice in the Lord, P.O. Box 18000, Pensacola, FL 32523 or www.rejoicetv.org.

Faith Chapel Funeral Home South is entrusted with arrangements.

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Written by Jane · Filed Under Obituaries