Jeffrey L Rice

Following a long and courageous battle with cancer, Jeffrey Lyle Rice passed away surrounded by his loving family on November 4, 2023. Born April 19, 1953, Jeff was a lifelong resident of Ravenna, where he graduated from Ravenna High School in 1970, then enlisted in the U.S. Army the same year. He was proud of his service in the Army, and following an honorable discharge, returned to his home to start a family and a decades-long career at the former Robinson Memorial Hospital. Jeff was a simple man, and found his greatest joy spending time with his family, doting on his daughters and his cherished Cocker Spaniels. On many summer evenings, Jeff could be found coaching his daughter’s softball teams, and when not a gameday, helping them with batting, throwing and catching skills in the backyard. Jo-Jo, the family’s black-and-tan Cocker Spaniel at that time, was a constant companion, as were pups Kennedy, Toby and Sofia who followed in later years. Jeff also enjoyed the Christmas holiday season, painstakingly decorating a tree every season with hundreds of animated ornaments. The result of the days-long process was a one-of-a-kind tree that was always a highlight for visitors during Christmas Eve dinner, a long-held family tradition. Jeff will be remembered for his quiet strength and easy-going way, loyalty to friends, love of animals and devotion to his daughters and wife. He loved his family beyond measure.  Jeff is survived by his wife of 49 years, Debbie, daughters Tawnya (Mark) Bosko and Alyssa (Paul) Ferraro, grandson Graham Jeffrey, brother Brian and sister Karen North. He was preceded in death by his parents James Alva and Thelma Lee, brother James Michael and sister Beverly Ann. The family would like to thank Dr. Paul Gibbons, Dr. Charles Fuenning, Dr. Brian White, the late Dr. Hitesh Makkar, and the staffs of Western Reserve Hospital and Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Center for their constant and attentive care. Per Jeff’s wishes, no services will be held and any remembrances may be made to the Portage Animal Protective League in Ravenna at portageapl.org. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.sscfuneralhomes.com.

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