Mr. Thomas Rice, Jr 84, of Chicago, IL transitioned on May 10, 2023. The year 1938 was a very good one for Thomas Rice, Sr. and Hattie Everette Rice. They awaited the arrival of their first bundle of joy with great anticipation. And on August 3, they were blessed with a baby boy. They named him Thomas Rice, Jr., and for all of his 84 years, he was fondly referred to as "Junior." Thomas accepted Christ in his life at an early age, was baptized, and spent his youth as a member of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Plumerville, Arkansas. Thomas graduated from Conway County Training School (CCTS) in 1957 and was a proud Mustang. He played on the basketball team, where he always bragged about being on the "winning team." Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army. After his honorable discharge, he moved to St. Louis, Missouri, where he developed a love for trucks and the trucking industry. He later moved to Chicago, Illinois, and became the owner of Rice Trucking Company, where he spent many years transporting cargo across the country. Happiness for Thomas was dressing in his overalls and talking about trucks to anyone who would listen. He never met a stranger, and he freely shared his time, talents, and resources with his family and friends. Thomas was preceded in death by a daughter, Oneria Faye Bell; parents, Deacon Thomas Sr. and Hattie Rice; sister, Mae Bertha Rice; and a brother, Jimmy Charles Rice. Those left to cherish many fond memories his daughter, Kimberly (Robert) Rice-Cunningham of St. Louis, Missouri; grandson, Khristopher Rice of St. Louis, Missouri; granddaughter, Bria Bell of Los Angeles, California; great granddaughter, Kyri Marble of St. Louis, Missouri; two sisters, Leola Rice Adams of Miami Gardens, Florida and Emma J. Rice of Plumerville, Arkansas; sister-in-law, Ruby Rice of Mabelvale, Arkansas; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and sorrowing friends. Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Deuteronomy 31:6 Vance-Wilson & Jarrett Funeral Directors "The Epitome of Service"

Visitation Friday, May 26, 2023 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM The Robert & Barbara Wilson Memorial Chapel 106 E. Elm St. Morrilton, Arkansas 72110 Funeral Service Saturday, May 27, 2023 11:00 AM Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church 105 Arnold Street Plumberville, AR 72127