William "Bill" Charles Rice was born on February 29, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, to his parents, John T. and Dorothy A. Rice (Sommer). He passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 1, 2025. Dear brother of Jane A. and late husband Robert E. Chew, the late Gerald R. and late wife Ellen M. Rice (Ivins), the late John "Timothy" and wife Karen B. Rice (Soroka). Loving father to Suzanne and Todd Rice, and former daughter-in-law, Deanna Balint. Bill also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Kimberly Wyatt (and husband Tom), Erin Finke (and husband Darick), Jacob Rice, Madison Rice, and Kevin Brooks. His legacy lives on through his great-grandchildren: Peyton and Cayson Finke; Brayden, Hudson, and Henley Wyatt; and Bella Brooks.

Bill was the consummate athlete, known to be out for a morning run or swim, depending on where he was. He especially loved swimming in the ocean near the family's beloved beach home in Ocean City, Maryland, and been known to take a morning swim in Lake Michigan when visiting his in-laws. A proud and loyal fan of Chicago sports, Bill could always be heard cheering on his beloved Cubs, Bulls and Bears during every season.

Bill first received his Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from The University of Illinois. Then he went on to earn a Master of Science degree in Mathematics from The University of California, Berkeley.

In November 1967 he married the love of his life, Janet Rosemary Papaik, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in love, faith, and family.

He retired after many years of service at Lockheed Martin, a company formerly known as IBM. In retirement, Bill found joy in cruising the world with his beloved Jan, spending time with his children and grandchildren, especially at the beach. He also loved honing his skills in woodworking. He took great pride in crafting custom pieces for family and friends, each one built with love and care.

Bill was the patriarch of the family. We will miss his quiet strength, unwavering devotion, and his kind heart. Bill was deeply grounded and lived a life of purpose, faith, and humility.

We find peace in knowing that his soul has been reunited with his beloved wife, Jan, together once more in the eternal light of God's grace. His legacy will live on in the hearts and lives of all who knew and loved him.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 14th from 11:00-12:00 pm with service beginning at 12:00pm at Colonial Funeral Home - 201 Edwards Ferry Rd, NE, Leesburg, VA 20176. Burial to follow at Union Cemetery.

A celebration of life will be held following the service at Tuscarora Mill, The Log Cabin Room, 203 Harrison Street, Leesburg, VA 20176.