Charles Raymond Rice, 82, entered into eternal life to be with our Lord, September 8, 2026. He was the son of the late Ottis Robert Rice, Sr. and Lois Jones Rice. He was a native of Buncombe County and lived most of his life in the Jupiter Community. Charles was a retired truck driver, at one point an owner/operator and finished his career at ABF Freight Systems with over 2 million miles of safe driving. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife of 62 yrs., Ruby Irene Rice and brothers, Boyd and Sherman Rice.

Charles was an active and faithful member at Locust Grove Baptist Church where he was a deacon for over 40 yrs and spent many days investing in the youth. He loved his family, especially his grandchildren, and was very active in their lives. Each year he planned a special vacation just for his grandsons. As a family, they enjoyed their time together, farming, making molasses, traveling, and listening to his jukebox. Charles and Ruby had been to every state except Alaska and spent many winters camping in Florida. His love for the water was undeniable, and he was always the captain of the boat whether fishing or just enjoying a boat ride.

Charles is survived by his sons, Durwin Rice (Shelley), and Kelsey Rice; sister, Gloria Shook (Dewey); brother, Ottis Robert Rice, Jr. (Debbie); grandchildren, Devin Rice (Madison), and Austin Rice (Brooke); and great grandchildren, Charlie Ray Rice, Ruby Kay Rice and Harper Ann Rice.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00pm, Friday September 11, 2026, in Locust Grove Baptist Church, Weaverville. Reverend Brent Snyder will officiate. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:30 to 11:45am prior to the service at the church.

The family would like to thank all the healthcare providers that cared for Charles during his time of need over the past several years.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.blueridgefuneralservice.org.