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Edward “Jackie” Jackson Rice

August 21, 1950 ~ April 23, 2020

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.

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  1. We met met Mr. Rice when our little boy insisted on petting the dog we saw being walked daily. We looked forward to seeing the familiar faces and enjoyed seeing Mrs. Rice walking Athena too. They became our friends. Cameron loves the Rice family dearly. When they moved we have missed them. They surprised us with visits when in town. We are saddened by Jackie’s passing. He will be dearly missed. Prayers for the family to have peace and know our thoughts are with you.

  2. Jackie was an incredible man. He was a perfect match for Bev and an incredible family man who never met a stranger. He is with my late husband, and all the other Envoys in Heaven, enjoying a deserving healthy existence. Until we meet again Arla K

  3. Jackie we are glad you are in heaven with your Lord and free of pain and able to RIP. Prayers being sent for your family to continue onward without you here on earth. You will be missed but not forgotten. You left us all with many happy memories. Pat and Bill Jones

  4. Beverly and Family, It is with great sadness that I learned of Jackie’s home going. Jackie was always kind and caring. He always brought a smile. I have fond memories of happy times that we all spent together at the Oar House. Where there is loss there is always an even greater presence of LOVE. Prayers for all. Carol

  5. Bev, I’m so sorry to heat of Jackie’s passing. I always enjoyed seeing you at sorority functions and missed you both. Please know that we are praying for you and your family. Much love, Veronica Ham

  6. 2014-2015 Me and Jackie at the Lighthouse V.C. It was my last day. I sure am going to miss you poppa bear. No one can fill your big footed shoes. Thank you for all the knowledge and wisdom and strength you gave me in life. Thank you for telling me every day that it will be okay that things would get better and to look on the bright side of life. Rest peacefully until we meet again. P.S. I sure am glad God put you in my life, from the laughs about that darn work in the lighthouse, to the jeep rides from Havelock, the backcountry, and the coast, to shaggin in the V.C. I’m going to miss you more than you know, but I know you will still be watching out for your girls above. So, go ahead and go fishing now. For I know you’ll be playing your favorite shag song GONE FISHIN. Going to miss you Jackie Rice, yet you will be missed by an endless many more than you know. Thank you for everything. Bev, may God be with you during this trying time. Love, Chelsy Leigh Jackson

  7. I am saddened to learn of Jackie’s untimely passing. We graduated high school together and enjoyed our 50th reunion almost two years ago. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.


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