Joe Lewis Rice

Mr. Joe Lewis Rice, age 76, of Sanford, NC transitioned to eternal rest Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill, NC.

Obituary

Joe Lewis Rice was born on August 28, 1949, to the late George and Julia Jamison Rice.

He attended W.B. Wicker School. He loved fishing and playing music, back in his younger days; his D.J. name was "Joe Blow Disco". He also had a passion for cars; he used to fix them, and was the best detailer in town, his shine game was top notch. His favorite restaurant was Ms. Wenger's where he had to have his grits hot. If the grits wasn't hot, he would send them back and then say, this is what I'm talking about.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; five sisters, Annie Lee Strickland, Odessa Smith, Jewel Rice, Pearlie McNeill, and Albenia Rice; four brothers, Juewillie Rice, Johnny Jamison, Henry Rice, and Gonzie Lee Rice.

He leaves to cherish his memories three daughters, Tameika Jennings Judd (Stewart), Danielle Jennings (Victor Ingram), and Tomesha Brice, all of Sanford, NC; one sister, Julia Allen; two brothers, George Junior Rice and Joseph Rice, all of Sanford, NC; thirteen grandchildren: Donte Jennings (Marie) of Killeen Texas, Stewart Judd III, Damian Judd, Tamiya Judd, Delmaz Jennings, Dayreon Jennings, Dylan Jennings, D'Zahrey Jennings, DanVeion Jennings, Elyjah Smith, Jacob Smith, Larry Smith III, and Darren Brice, all of Sanford, NC; five great-grandchildren, DaVeah Jennings, Braylen Jennings, DeLayah Jennings, Khy'mir Smith, and A'lahni Smith, all of Sanford, NC; two special friends, Wilma Jennings and Katherine Cole; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

"We do not own copyrights to the background music."

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Professional services entrusted to Knotts Funeral Home - Sanford, NC