James Charles Rice was born in Limestone County, Alabama on July 2, 1930 to the late Jerry and Mattie Rice. He was the oldest of 2.
He began his Christian walk at the Union Hill Baptist Church where he sang in the choir.
In 1952 James moved to Cleveland, Ohio where he met and later married the love of his life, Mary Frances.
James affectionately called “Ray” was a hard worker and provider for his family. He held a part-time position at Sears, while working in Auto Assembly at General Motors Co., there he also served as a Union Steward and he retired after 30 years.
In his spare time, Ray enjoyed fishing, watching baseball, and football. He enjoyed the Cleveland Browns so much he held season tickets for decades along with his longtime friend, Will Jeffreys.
Ray also enjoyed traveling near and far. In addition to spending time with friends he loved his family and treasured them dearly.
James leaves to cherish his memory to his wife, Mary; sons, Willie Wilson, Dwayne Wilson; daughters, Bonita Collins (Charles) Chattanooga, TN., Diane Maddox (Edward deceased), Sharon Cistrunk (Dennis), Alice Jefferies; sister, Pearline Parker; grandchildren, Nicola Wilson, Cheria Danielle Allen, Michael T. Buchanan, Jeri L. Walker, Chaz D. Rice (Nicole), Tyler Jeffries, Trenton Jeffries, Mia Wilson, Deanna Debose (Devaughn), Giovanni Jeffries; great grand-children, nieces, nephews and a host of other family and friends.