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Spurgeon “Sonny” Hannah Rice, Jr., 88, of Crewe, Va., passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Sonny is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Joyce Rice. He also leaves behind his son, James Rice (Elizabeth), and his two daughters, Mary Childress (Clyde) and Angie Dumond (Jason), all of Crewe, Va. He was a proud and loving grandfather to five grandchildren; Tyler Rice (Ginny), Adam Rice (Hartley), Alexis Motley (Robert), Addison Childress, and Sadie Dumond; as well as many loving nieces and nephews who meant so much to him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Spurgeon Hannah Rice, Sr. and Sadie Swicegood Rice.
Sonny retired from Crewe Garment Factory where he worked as a machinist for over 40 years and a lifetime farmer. He was known for his dedication, dependability, and strong work ethic, qualities that carried into every part of his life. Sonny devoted much of his time to his family farm, Turkey Island Farm, where he took great pride in raising cattle and caring for the land he loved so much.
Above all else, Sonny was a family man. Nothing brought him more happiness than being surrounded by those he loved, whether it was sharing meals, telling stories, or simply enjoying time together. He believed in providing for his family and showing his love through hard work, quiet strength, and steady presence.
Sonny was also an avid outdoorsman who found his greatest peace outside. He especially loved spending time on the lake, where he enjoyed boating, water skiing, and making memories with his family and friends. Some of his happiest days were spent in the sunshine, on the water, doing what he loved most with the people he loved most.
He will be remembered for his strong hands, his generous heart, his love of the land, and his unwavering dedication to his family. His legacy lives on through the family he built, the values he instilled, and the many memories that will be treasured forever.
The family will receive friends at the Joseph McMillian Funeral Home, 1826 Cox Rd., Blackstone, Va. 23824, from 5-7 P.M., Thursday, April 9, 2026. Graveside funeral services will be held at 2 P.M., Friday, April 10, 2026 at the Rice Family Cemetery, 4100 Indian Oak Rd., Crewe, VA 23930. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to your favorite charity in Sonny’s name. www.mcmillianfuneralhome.com
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