Bennie "Grit" Rice, Jr.

Due to COVID-19 and the safety of all, the family will not receive visitors at the home.  A mask or some form of facing covering is required of all attending the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the

Beatty's Chapel AME Church Building Fund

P O Box 564

Union, SC  29379

Mr. Bennie Rice, Jr. was born on May 27, 1955.  A native of Union, SC he was the son of Alice Ann Rice of the home and the late Ben Rice.

Mr. Bennie Rice, Jr., lovingly known as “Grit”, was a member of Beatty’s Chapel AME Zion Church.   He accepted Jesus Christ at a young age and joined Beatty’s Chapel soon after.  His faith in Jesus Christ was the anchor of his life and guided him through the many health challenges he faced.   As a youth, he was a skillful basketball player and was often mentioned in the Union Daily Times for being the highest scorer.   He was a 1974 graduate of Union High School. His abilities as a basketball player would lead him to Morris College, Sumter SC on an athletic scholarship.  Bennie enjoyed 70’s R&B, Gospel music, and singing.  He would often share his rendition of “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay,” “Amazing Grace,” and “Precious Lord” with any captive audience.  Bennie had a close loving relationship with his parents and his mother often called him “Little Bennie.”  He assumed the role of older brother proudly.  Until his illness, he called each of his siblings daily to assess how they were doing as well as their families. This one gesture to stay connected signified the care, compassion, and love that Bennie had for his family.  Although he had many health challenges, he often asked about the well-being of others and enjoyed connecting with his Uncle Jimmy.  Bennie was loved and will truly be missed.   

On Saturday April 10, 2021, Mr. Rice entered eternal rest at SouthPointe Nursing Home, Greenville SC under the care of Kindred Hospice.

Left to cherish his memory are his mother, Mrs. Alice Ann Garner Rice of the home; one brother, Jules (Teresa) Rice of Union, SC; four sisters, Betty (Joseph) McMorris of Carlisle, SC, Sandra Rice of Easley, SC, Karen (Tim) Fielder of Stockbridge, GA, and Stephanie (Willis) Clarkson of Columbia, SC; and a host of nieces, nephews, other dear relatives, and friends.  He has two surviving uncles, James Douglas Garner of Buffalo, SC and Kenneth (Catherine) Garner of Charlotte, NC.

Arrangements are with Community Mortuary, 361 Meansville Road, Union, SC.

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