Robert Rice

Robert William Rice, 87, passed away at 1:38 p.m. Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at Helia Healthcare in Benton, IL. Bob was born June 10, 1930 in Wood River, IL to Mary (Boomer) and Henry “Harry” Rice. After moving to Benton, IL eight years ago, Bob started attending Immanuel Baptist Church. Three years ago, he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. Bob is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and served from 1949-1953. He worked at Olin Works making shot gun shells. Bob loved to fish, bowl, garden and hunt. He was a great dancer. Anytime you would see Bob out in the community, he was usually riding his bicycle. Bob never met a stranger. Bob is survived by his children Julie (David) Orr of Plant City, FL, Lori (Floyd) Cairns of Thompsonville, IL, and Trace (John) Hobbs of Bennington, Nebraska; 8 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a sister-in-law, Jane (George) Hartley and several nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters, Lucille Rice and Dorothy Mayberry, his brothers, Charles Rice, Dudley Rice and Joseph Rice, and a great grandchild. Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, March 2, 2018 at Upper Alton Cemetery. Friends and family are asked to come directly to the cemetery before the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to Immanuel Baptist Church (Building Fund) of Benton, IL. Donations may be made to the funeral home or directly to the church. Gent Funeral Home in Alton is in charge of arrangements. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

Obit Provided By:
Gent Funeral Home