Robert "Bob" Rice

Robert "Bob" Rice – 83
Of Naylor, GA passed away on Monday, April 11, 2016 at Select Speciality Hospital in Tallahassee, FL. He was born on December 12, 1932 in Stonecreek, Ohio to the late Wayne and Sara Wassem Rice. He retired from the United States Air Force where he dedicated over 21 years of his life and was a Korean War Veteran.
After completing his active duty in the military, he entered the JC Penny managerial program. During this time he discovered that education was his true calling. He started attending Valdosta State College where he also worked in the GACIS program. At Valdosta State College he was inducted into Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society. After graduation he taught high school history. He then earned his M.S.Ed and Ed.S. in public school administration. He began his administrative career in Ray City. He then returned to Lanier County where he served as principal of every school in the county school system. He worked for over 24 years in the education system, where he retired as a public school administrator for the Lanier County Board of Education.
After his retirement he served on the Lanier County Board of Education. He also worked as an Adjunct Professor teaching and supervising student teachers. Mr. Bob was an active member of the Lakeland United Methodist Church, Methodist Men's Club, Lakeland Masonic Lodge 434, Commander of the Disabled American Veterans and was past president of the Lanier County Lions Club. He also served as the first director of the Flatlander Park where he planned many softball tournaments to raise funds to build the first concession stand and expand the park.
Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Cynthia Rice of Naylor, GA; Daughters & Son-in-law, Kay & Mickey Fourakers of Naylor, GA, Robyn Keller of Teeterville, GA; Son, Bob Rice of Naylor, GA; Grandchildren, Bert FourakersKelly, Kristie AndrewsTravis, Ashley Rice, Hunter Rice & MaryGrace Keller; Great Grandchildren, Owen Andrews & Avie Andrews; Sister & Brother-in-Law, Delores & Paul Grossman of Columbus, OH and a number of nieces, nephews & cousins.
He was blessed with family and friends who loved him. He loved God, Church, Country, Community and Family. His was a life well lived.
Funeral services will be held at 4:00pm on Friday, April 15, 2016 at the Lakeland United Methodist Church with burial to follow in the Unity United Methodist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 14, 2016 from 5:00pm until 7:00pm at the Lakeland Chapel of Music Funeral Services. Sympathy may be expressed online at www.musicfuneralservices.com . Music Funeral Services of Lakeland, GA is serving the family.