James Milan Rice, 77, of Fort Smith, Arkansas, passed away peacefully at his home on January 16, 2025. Born on February 24, 1947, in Fort Smith, he was the son of Milan Rice and Christine Burns.
James was united in marriage to Sharon Rice on September 1, 1992, sharing 32 years of love and companionship. He dedicated 37 years to Arkansas Oklahoma Gas Corp., where he worked his way up to the role of Customer Service and Billing Manager before retiring.
A passionate sports enthusiast, James spent much of his time umpiring local baseball games and enjoyed playing golf and bowling in his leisure time. He was also an avid fan of football and baseball, cherishing the opportunity to watch games both on television and in person.
James will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and his legacy of love and dedication to his family will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
James is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon Rice; His daughter, Angela Fisher; his three step daughters, Regina Bussey, Cindy Walters, Jereme Smith; his step son, Scott Clapp; 7 grandchildren, Austin Lowe, Kevin Lowe, Jesse Walters, Luke Walters, Colton Smith, Cameron Smith, Shannon Casey; 11 great grandchildren; two sisters, Sandra Broughton and Roberta Webb; and one brother, Howard Allison.

James is Preceded in passing by his parents Milan Rice and Christine Burns; a grandson, Andrew Smith; and two brothers, Johnny Rice, Kennith Allison and his beloved dog Dottie.

The family of James invites you to a memorial service at 2:00pm,on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at Community Bible Church East Campus. Located at 9201 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas. Cremation is under the direction of Lewis Funeral Chapel

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