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Bobbie "Bob" Duane Rice

Lewis & Gillum Funeral Homes

28 Harding Avenue, Jackson, OH 45640

(p) 740-286-2010 (f) 740-286-5640



Bobbie “Bob” Duane Rice was born on March 13, 1930. He was the husband of his high school sweetheart, Esther Louise (Grover) Rice and was the father of 3 daughters, Kathy Patrick, Peggy (Larry) Foster, and Karen (Mark) McCann.


Bob had five grandchildren: Ryan (Ashly) Foster, Jamie Boggs, Lindsey (Trevor) Thrift, Caitlin (Brent) Nagel, and Cody (Haley) Eilbacher. He also had eight great-grandchildren: Weston Foster, Quincy Foster, Elizabeth MacLees, Alexis Boggs, Zane Boggs, Juniper Thrift, Easton Nagel, and Owen Nagel.


Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Dick and Elizabeth Rice, his sister, Carol Sharrock, and his wife, Esther Rice.


Bob Rice was a faithful husband, a committed father, an adoring grandfather, and an honest, trusted businessman.


Bob Rice was a community-minded, dedicated individual.


Bob was always willing to volunteer to serve to help others. He served on the Board of Jackson County Water since it was chartered in June of 1970. Bob, along with his wife Esther, was an integral part of the start-up of the Jackson County Water Company. Bob served in several other civic and community service groups. He was instrumental in starting the Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department where he had served as chief for over thirty years. He was involved with the Civil Defense unit in Jackson County and served on the Board of the Jackson County Health Department. He was well-known throughout the community as a private businessman and “go-to” auto mechanic for the area while operating Rice’s Garage and later, Bob’s Service Center.


Throughout his 92 years, his friendly demeanor, his attitude of service and dedication, and his concern for others has been clearly evident in the community he called home.


He will be missed by all those who knew him.


In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Liberty Township Fire Department.


Calling hours will be held on Thursday, August 4th, 2022, from 4-8PM at the Lewis & Gillum Funeral Home of Jackson. Funeral services with firefighter honors will be held on Friday, August 5th, 2022, at 2PM at the Christ United Methodist Church with Pastor Janie Karl officiating. Burial will follow at Fairmount Cemetery. Online condolences may be sent to www.lewisgillum.com.


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