age 71, U.S. Army veteran, awarded the Bronze Star Medal, who served in the Vietnam War and later died as a result of his service to his country.
He was with the First Infantry Division 'The Big Red One' and 101st Airborne Division. Once an avid fisherman, esteemed photographer, athletically built, charming and handsome gentleman, Charles suffered from many health issues including but not limited to Parkinson's disease, ischemic heart disease, and Diabetes Milletus due to his exposure to Agent Orange while serving his country which contributed to his early demise. He was preceded in death by his parents Henry Rice Sr., and Rosa Mae Rice. Mr. Rice was born on September 21, 1948 in Birmingham, AL. Charles, member of Faith Church, graduate of Hayes High Class of 1967 and Lawson State Community College, former resident of North Smithfield Manor, resident of Trussville, lifetime member of the VVA and DAV, retired master electrician Norfolk Southern Railroad died peacefully in his sleep while attending the 101st Airborne Reunion in Tampa, Florida on Friday, February 7, 2020 with his wife by his side. Charles is survived by his loving and faithful wife of 46 years, Jacqueline Rice; his children whom he was extremely proud of Charles A. Rice Jr., Dr. Jacqueline Rice-McKenzie M.D., (Richard), Roderick Rice, and Brian Rice; precious grandchildren Asharueah Rice, Charley Ann McKenzie, Lia McKenzie, Victoria McKenzie and Ricky McKenzie; siblings Eria Matthews, Ella (Tyrone) Hall, Henry (Annette) Rice, Alvin (Michelle) Rice, Curtis Rice, Debra (Randle) Key, Denise (Michael) Banks, Phyllis Moon and Veronica (Eric) Smoke; uncles Lacy (Inez) Rice, Earlie B. Rice, aunts Clemmie (Fred) Horton, Nell Spencer, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, friends and neighbors. Other than raising his family, the top highlight in Charles' life was driving across the country in a once in a lifetime journey volunteering & campaigning for the election of President Barack Obama. This journey included but was not limited to Sioux Falls, SD; Pittsburg, PA; Elizabethtown, KY; Charlotte, NC; Houston, TX; New Port News, VA; St. Paul, MN and Tampa, FL. Charles' favorite passion was watching baseball. His favorite baseball player was his son, Charles A. Rice, Jr first round draft pick with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1993.
Public Viewing - Bushelon Funeral Home (800 14th St SW, Birmingham., AL) on Friday, February 14, 2020 from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.; Family Hour - 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Funeral Services – Faith Church at Oxmoor Valley (101 Oslo Circle Birmingham, AL) on Saturday, February 15, 2020 at 12:00 noon.
Officiated by Pastor Aubrey Miller with burial at Elmwood Cemetery.
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