Mr. James Loy Rice, 95, of Wilmington, NC passed away March 22, 2025 at Brunswick Cove Nursing Home in Leland, NC after many weeks of declining health, after a fall and breaking a leg.
James was born in Franklin, NC, April 28, 1929. He would later meet and marry the love of his life, Betty Vanhook in 1953. They moved to Alamance County in 1966, and he was employed for many years with Burlington Industries.
Anyone whoever knew James, loved him! Such a funny, inspirational and loving guy! He was a devout Christian and loved to read his bible daily, and always giving praise to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!
He joined the Marine Corps in 1948 and served off the coast of South Korea during The Korean War, later in Guantanamo Bay, and five months in the Mediterranean Sea.
His other passion was his vegetable garden, second to none in Alamance County! He could be seen there often, and after many physical challenges even hoed his vegetables from the seat of his golf cart. He was even featured years ago in the local newspaper having to pick his okra from a ladder.
He is survived by his wife Betty, his son Wayne (Camellia), one brother, and his granddaughter Leigh Sanders (Kevin), one great granddaughter Sophie Ann Sanders, all of Carolina Beach. He was predeceased by his parents, L. D. and Ann Rice, a daughter Anna, three brothers, and four sisters.
Memorials can be made in his honor to St. Jude’s Research Hospital, Shriner’s Hospital, or a charity of your choice.
