Elden Eugene Rice

Elden Eugene Rice, 86, of New Vienna, Ohio passed away Monday, April 13, 2026 at his residence.  His wife, Jacqueline Rice, preceded him in death November 2, 2016.  They were married August 29, 1975.

Mr. Rice was born October 20, 1939 in Rella, Kentucky, son of the late William Rice and Zealous Clark Rice.  He was a graduate of Barbourville High School in Kentucky and served in the U.S. Army.

Mr. Rice retired after working for 30 years at General Motors.  He was a longtime member of the Republican Party, who enjoyed riding his four-wheeler, mowing his yard, and taking care of his dogs. 

Survivors include his daughter, Donna Jackson of Union, Ohio; sisters, Juanita Jordan, Patricia Madison, Wanda Louise Crawford, Brenda (Larry) Evans, Lucille (Ronald) Madison, and Debbie (Bob) Bloom; a brother, William Glen Rice; a granddaughter, Jennifer Jackson; great-grandchildren, Alyssa, Jayden, Peyton, and Carson; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife and parents, Elden was preceded in death a sister, Barbara Coates; brothers-in-law, Charles Coates and Lee Jordan; and a grandson, Scott Jackson.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 Noon – 1:00 PM, Saturday, April 18, 2026 at Smith Funeral Home, 327 N. South Street, Wilmington, Ohio followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM.  Burial will be in New Vienna I.O.O.F. Cemetery with military honors provided by the American Legion Post 49 Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Elden’s memory may be made to the Highland Co. Humane Society, P.O. Box 471, Hillsboro Ohio 45133.

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