Virgil Rice

Virgil William "Bill" Rice

Virgil William "Bill" Rice, age 72, of Fairfield, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on January 3, 2003 at Hospice of Hamilton, after a courageous battle with cancer. There in his heavenly home, Bill is finally reunited with his beloved wife Margaret, who preceded him in death February 17, 1998.

Everyone who knew Bill, saw him as a gentleman who had a deep respect for others. He was educated and wise, and had a deep devotion to the Bible. Others always looked to Bill to get detailed answers to the many questions they had. At an early age, he was a single father for many years with custody of his 2 daughters, Sharon and Debbie. All the love and nurturing he gave was gladly returned, as his daughters tenderly cared for him until they released him to the hands of the Lord. He was very much a man of integrity, and all that he instilled will never be forgotten. Bill also had a special bond with his 2 sons, Jack and Rob who loved him deeply. Bill was employed at Dubois Chemicals, as director of engineering, retiring in 1992.

A devoted and loving father, he leaves 6 children: daughter, Sharon (Rice) Simmons and husband Arthur; daughter, Debra (Rice) Rowland and husband Mike; daughter Judy Ray; son Jack Farmer; son, Rob Farmer; son, Rick Farmer; 16 grandchildren; and 8 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his only sister, Irene Sexton; a very close niece, Carol Long and husband Bob. He will be sadly missed by his other niece and nephew; and 2 great-nieces. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William and Sarah (Turner) Rice; wife, Margaret; and a beloved brother-in-law, Frank Sexton.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Hospice of Hamilton at Sunrise for their support through this difficult time. A special thanks to Missy Murphy for all the love and tender care she gave our dad. She was truly a godsend.

Funeral services will be, 1 p.m., Tuesday, January 6, 2004 at the Avance Funeral Home & Crematory, 4976 Winton Rd., Fairfield with Pastor Mike Botts officiating. Interment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation will also be Tuesday, from 12 Noon - until time of service at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Hamilton, 896 NW Washington Blvd., Hamilton, OH 45013.