Charles Edward Rice, big-hearted man
Charles “Chuck” Edward Rice, 81, of Lewes, died of natural causes at the Delaware Hospice on Wednesday, December 7, 2022. Chuck was born in Washington, DC in 1941 to Robert Edward Rice and Thelma Kammerer Rice.
He is survived by his longtime partner Sue Ellen Dodge; son Mark Edward Rice (Randi Scheiner) of Binghamton, NY; and grandsons, Daniel Robert Rice, Dillon John Rice, Caroline Rose Rice, Margeaux Claire Rice and Charlotte Nicole Rice. He was predeceased by his sons John Robert Rice and Andrew Glenn Rice.
Chuck graduated from Randolph Macon Academy in 1958 and William and Mary College in 1963, where he received a Bachelor of Arts in German.
He married Helen Patricia McLeod in 1963 and they had three children, John, Andrew and Mark. They lived in Winchester, Virginia, where Chuck was an active member of Grace Lutheran Church. He moved to Washington, DC in 1985 where he met Sue and they lived in the area for many years until they moved to Lewes in 2020. He worked in the insurance industry as a claims adjuster for Robert W. Green Associates and then for GEICO from the early 1980’s until his retirement in 2003. During his time at GEICO he worked as a claims adjuster and then as a trainer and supervisor.
Chuck enjoyed a range of hobbies and activities. He loved music. He had a rich baritone voice and sang in church choirs. A talented guitarist, he entertained family and friends with folk songs, Irish ballads and American standards. After retiring from GEICO, Chuck forged a second career playing guitar and singing for people in retirees and assisted living facilities. He found deep meaning in this service and brought joy and comfort to his many listeners. He brought similar joy to family gatherings, leading Christmas carols and playing beautifully for his family. Chuck was a lifelong tennis fan and tennis player known for his freaky drop shot and sly playing style. He was a runner for many years and competed in many races, including two full marathons. He was also an accomplished gardener and enjoyed sharing his hobbies with his sons.
Chuck was a loving, kind and generous man. He loved telling stories and willingly shared his interest in history and famous battles. He had a lively, cheerful, and sometimes erratic disposition. He was a brave and clever card player who particularly enjoyed sharing the game of Euchre with friends and family. He loved the beach and a perfectly cooked margarita. He was a caring partner and father who we will fondly remember. His grandchildren remember their “gdaddy” for his generosity, loving support, and guitar concerts.
No services are currently planned.
Condolences, photos or memories of Chuck can be sent to the family at [email protected]
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making memorial donations to a charity of their choice in Chuck’s memory, as he was a generous supporter of many charities.
Chuck’s final care was entrusted to Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, Lewes.
Visit the Chuck’s Life Memorial website and sign his virtual guest book at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
