Edward “Jackie” Jackson Rice

WHITAKERS - Edward "Jackie" Jackson Rice, age 69, passed away on Thursday, April 23, 2020. Born in Craven County, NC on August 21, 1950, he was the son of the late Gray Jackson Rice and Edna Brinson Rice. Jackie, or "Jeeper Jack" as he was also affectionately known amongst the Jeepers community, retired as a mechanic with the North Carolina Parks Service. Throughout his career as a mechanic, he had also worked for numerous other automotive and government businesses such North Carolina DOT, Advance Auto Parts, and Auto-zone. "Jeeper Jack" had a strong love for all things related to jeeps, having owned multiple models throughout his life and belonging to various clubs throughout North Carolina such as the Crystal Coast Jeep Club, Coastal Plains Jeep Club, and Banana Slap Jeep Club. Through this freedom to go anywhere for enjoyment, "Jeeper Jack" made many wonderful friends throughout the years, creating many lasting memories. Jackie also enjoyed shag dancing, a pastime which also led him to his wife, Beverly. A loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and dear friend to many, Jackie will never be forgotten. Jackie leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife Beverly Hodgson Rice of Whitakers; and children, Kevin Rice and wife, Brooke, of Sanford, Erin Albright of Mt. Pleasant, SC, and Richard "Rick" Dupont and wife, Jennifer, of Whitakers. He is also survived by grandchildren, Zachary Rice, Ashley Albright, Ashlynde Dupont, and Analeigh Dupont; and sister, Linda Holmes. A Private Family Funeral Service will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com. During a family's time of loss, understandably family and friends would like to visit and express their sympathy. Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services asks that during this difficult time for the safety and well-being of the family, please keep touching and contact to a minimum. We ask if you have visited outside of the USA in the last two weeks or if you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms to please wait and visit with the family at a later time. You may contact the family by email, place an online condolence on our website or give the family a phone call. Again, we understand this is a difficult time but we encourage exhibiting safety and courtesy to everyone involved in these services. The mandate from Governor Cooper includes funerals, visitations and all services, so we must limit the attendance until further notice. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding during this unprecedented situation. Service A Private Family Funeral Service will be held at a later date.