Benjamin Rice

He was born on February 13, 1935 in Lynchburg, son of the late Silas Preston Rice and the late Josephine Fuller Rice.

His beloved wife, Betty, preceded him in death. Benjamin was the youngest of 8 children. Ernestine Garwood, Wilbur Rice, Agnes Taylor, Ruby Hamilton, Preston Rice, and Mildred Fariss all preceded him in death and his last remaining sibling, a sister, Mary Bondurant, joined her brother in heaven just a few hours after him. A daughter, Vicky Rice, also preceded him in death.

His family remembers him most as a kind and compassionate father, who continued to raise their 3 daughters as a single father after the passing of his wife in 1970, often working multiple jobs to provide for his family. He continued to maintain close relationships with his and his wife’s family as the children grew up, which provided them with rich and everlasting ties. He is remembered as a multi-talented man who could fix just about anything, at home and for the family’s beloved matriarch, Vassar Keatts. He loved listening to classic guitarists, such as Chet Atkins, fondly remembered his days as a dance instructor for Arthur Murray, and recounted many stories of his time in the Air Force as he traveled the globe. He loved flying as a private pilot, enjoyed the classic cinematic Westerns, playing guitar and conversations with family and friends on many topics. He was retired from Babcock & Wilcox Navy Nuclear plant in Lynchburg and had proudly served his country as an Airman First Class in the United States Air Force.

Survivors include 2 daughters, Abby Rice and husband Tom Laudeman and Donna Linn as well as 3 grandchildren, Charlotte Endres, Tosh Endres, and Clara Endres.

Due to gathering restrictions of the COVID-19, there will be no formal visitation, but you may stop by Whitten Timberlake Chapel from 9-5 on Friday, January 1, 2021 to pay your respects. The family is planning to have a reception later when friends may more easily gather.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 2, 2021 at Virginia Memorial Park.

When attending services, please maintain social distancing and wear a mask for everyone’s safety. You are encouraged to post a memory, note, or words of condolence to the family by going to the funeral home website at www.whittentimberlake.com.

Donations can be made in his memory to: The American Red Cross and Disabled American Veterans.