James Van Rice

James Van Rice, born 1933 in Madison County, passed away April 24, 2018 at the CarePartners Solace Center. J.V. is survived by his wife of 65 years, Bettie Jean Davis Rice, granddaughter, Laura Davis, and great-granddaughter, Olivia. He is also survived by sisters Golda Noblitt, Othella Ogle, Rozella (Earl) Ramsey, Dora Rice, Karen (Hurley) Buff, and brothers McCelland (Bobbie Jean) Rice, Harlan (Tammy) Rice, as well as several nieces, nephews and a special friend, Ray Buckener. He was preceded in death by his parents, Everette and Wavel Rice, son James Timothy Rice and daughter Debra Sue Rice Davis. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday at Ashelawn Gardens of Memory, with Rev. Dr. Ronnie Owen officiating. J.V.'s family expresses sincere appreciation to the staff at CarePartners Solace for their loving care. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, 200 Mt. Carmel Rd., Asheville, NC 28806. Groce Funeral Home on Patton Ave. is assisting the family.