CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF J. ROGER RICE

CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF J. ROGER RICE

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 37 (Tuesday, February 25, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 37 (Tuesday, February 25, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E158] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF J. ROGER RICE ______ HON. GEORGE LATIMER of new york in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 25, 2025 Mr. LATIMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of James Roger Rice, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, attorney, and man of deep faith, who went to be with the Lord on February 16, 2025. Born on January 1, 1950, in Buffalo, New York, to James Albert Rice and Frankie Jones Rice, Roger was raised in a home shaped by Christian values, instilled in him by his mother. Roger was a standout student- athlete at Hutchinson Technical High School in Buffalo, where he excelled on the basketball court, earning All-City honors for his skill and leadership. He earned a full basketball scholarship to Kings College in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, where he played the game with heart, discipline, and excellence--qualities he carried into his career and family life. Beyond his own playing, he became a dedicated youth basketball coach, pouring into his sons and other youth. For many, he was more than a coach; he was a guiding force, building lifelong friendships and lasting lessons both on and off the court. While pursuing his Juris Doctor degree at the University of Buffalo, Roger's life took a beautiful turn when he met Gail, the love of his life, on the first day of law school. Their first date was legendary-- crossing borders to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. That fateful meeting led to a lifetime of love, partnership, and purpose. They married in 1978; two sons were born of this union. In 1982, Roger and Gail took a leap of faith, founding their own law firm, Rice & Rice, Attorneys-at-Law. Their firm, which later included both sons, became a pillar of the community, serving countless clients with integrity, wisdom, and compassion. With the founding partners' retirement in 2019, Rice & Rice closed after more than 35 years of service. Roger was a storyteller and no-nonsense advice giver, who could be both profoundly wise and hilariously unpredictable, often in the same conversation. He was known for his affectionate teasing and clever nicknames. He loved food, music, movies, and showing off his dance moves. Above all, Roger was a family man. He took immense pride in the achievements of his wife, children, and grandchildren, celebrating their victories and supporting them in every endeavor. His love for his family was unwavering, and his presence was a source of strength, encouragement, and wisdom. Roger's faith was central to who he was, and he often spoke about the help, direction, and friendship of the Holy Spirit in pivotal moments of his life. After his marriage, he became a member of Shiloh Baptist Church of Tuckahoe where he was ordained as a deacon. Over the years, he also worshiped at Bethesda Baptist Church of New Rochelle, and, until the time of his passing, was a founding member of Renaissance Church in Harlem. His commitment to his faith was evident in how he lived serving his community, mentoring others, and walking in integrity. Roger was pre-deceased by his parents Frankie and James Rice; brother Lawrence C. Brown; sister Frances Marshall; daughter-in- love, Danielle Williams Rice; and his parents-in-love, Mabel and Herman Whitaker. He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, cherished by his wife, Gail Rice; his sons, Jared and Jordan Rice; his daughter-in-love, Jasmine and Jessica Rice; and his treasured grandchildren, Jocelyn, Jayden, Jameson, and Josiah Rice. He is also survived by his siblings- in-love Sandra and Glen McGhee, Quincy and Gail Brooks, and Joyce and Keno Johnson, and Margo Clarke; uncles and aunt Prince Allen Whetstone and Arnold and Esther Brooks; nieces and nephews Paula and Charles Barber, Spencer and Helen Rodriguez, Luis, Alexander, and Jasmine Rodriguez, Taila and Edward Faustin, and Darren and Christine Brooks. Additionally, a host of great-nieces and nephews, cousins, extended family members, friends, colleagues and Rice & Rice family, and former clients who will forever remember his kindness, wisdom, and generosity. Roger Rice was well-loved and lived well. He will be deeply missed, but his footprint will endure forever in New York's 16th Congressional District. ____________________