Hugh Rice Obituary

With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we announce the peaceful passing of Mr. Hugh Lee Rice, Sr. on Friday, June 13, 2025, at the Glenn A. Kiser Hospice House. Born on January 17, 1947, in Lavonia, Georgia, Mr. Rice was the beloved son of the late T.C. Rice and Sarah Willene Clark Rice.

A proud graduate of Dunbar High School, East Spencer, Class of 1966, Hugh Rice, Sr. was deeply rooted in the Rowan County community that shaped his life. He dedicated many years of hard work to Yellow Freight Corporation, where he retired in 2009, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and integrity.

Mr. Rice's faith was a cornerstone of his life. As a lifetime member of Henderson Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Salisbury, and a devoted current member of Victory Church of God in Cooleemee, he embraced his spirituality with unwavering devotion, inspiring those around him through his example.

A man of the earth and simplicity, Hugh Rice, Sr. found joy and peace in tending to his garden -- carefully working the soil, planting, and nurturing the fruits of his labor. His love for the outdoors was matched by his fondness for quiet moments indoors, where he enjoyed watching classic western movies, a pastime that reflected his appreciation for stories of courage and resilience.

Mr. Rice's life was marked by love and family. He was preceded in death by his parents; his cherished wife of 29 years, Pastor Annie Ruth Rice; brother, Thomas E. Rice; brother-in-law, Billy McNeely; and step-son, Timothy Allen Cook.

He leaves to cherish his memory a rich legacy of family: his children and step-children: Hugh L. Rice, Jr., April Rice Smith (Russell), Toni Cook Smith (Anthony), Tyrone Cook (Claudia), Thomas Cook (Tonya), and Teri Cook Shaw (Tim). He held a special place in his heart for Sharon Hallman (Steve) and Sherry Oglesby, whom he loved like daughters. He also leaves behind his brothers Randy Rice, Tim Rice (Gina), Clifford Rice (Alexandria), and Scott Rice (Keisha); sisters, Paulette Mangham (Anthony), Brenda McNeely, Kathy Rice, and Sylvia Rice; 15 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; 4 honorary grandchildren; 1 late honorary grandchild; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends who were blessed by his kindness and strength.

Mr. Hugh Lee Rice, Sr. lived a life defined by hard work, faith, family, and quiet joy. He was a gentle presence, a loving patriarch, and a steadfast friend. His legacy will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Arrangements: Services are Tuesday, June 17, 2025 in the A.R. Kelsey Memorial Chapel, Noble and Kelsey Funeral Home, Inc. with Visitation at 1:00pm and Funeral at 2:00pm.

Noble and Kelsey Funeral Home, Inc. is assisting the Rice family. Online condolences may be sent to nobleandkelsey.com.