John Henry Rice Jr

John Henry Rice Jr., 90, of Sanford passed away peacefully at home on August 7, 2026. The family will receive friends in McDowell Hall at Jonesboro Heights Baptist Church on Wednesday August 12, 2026, at 12:30pm. Funeral services will start at 2pm in the Church Sanctuary. Burial will follow at Jonesboro Cemetery.

Henry was born in Lee Co. to the late John Henry Rice Sr. and Willie Mae Roe Rice. He graduated from Sanford Central High School in 1956. Henry worked for Heinz telephone company for many years, retiring from Windstream in 1997.

Henry was a dedicated member of Jonesboro Heights Baptist Church. He worshipped there for 90 years. He served on the Building and Grounds Committee and the Board of Deacons after being ordained in 1965. He was also a leader of the RAs.

In his spare time Henry enjoyed farming the family land, growing tobacco and soybeans. In later years he would help neighbors on their farms, always enjoying being outdoors.

He had a passion for sports, participating in several softball and bowling teams. Later he could be found watching his grandchildren playing soccer and basketball. He also took great pleasure in going on beach vacations with his wife and family. Henry never met a stranger. With his sense of humor, quick wit and welcoming smile, he was the kind of person who made everyone feel loved and important. He was deeply loved by everyone that had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a legacy of joy and kindness.

He is survived by his wife Kathleen Rice; sons John H. Rice III and wife Lucille of Rougemont, and Mark Steven Rice and wife Cindy of Garner; grandchildren Elizabeth Charles and husband Derwin, Michael Rice and wife Ashley, Mary Anna Rice, Marissa Rice, Aiden Rice, and Christian Rice; great grandchildren Hallie Charles, Derwin Charles, Kelsey Charles, and Lainey Rice; as well as his sister Henrietta Fluton of Winston Salem.

Memorial contributions can be made to Jonesboro Heights Baptist Church, 316 W Main St, Sanford, NC 27332.