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Stephen Rice Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Stephen Rice
Nina Chandler
March 29, 2019
He was a good friend and will be missed.
Kevin Stevenson
August 31, 2007
I just learned of your passing. Although we lost touch over the years, I always recalled our friendship as meaningfull time in my life.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
BARBARA A. BLACK-RAHRIG
August 18, 2007
Stevie:
Another, minute, hour, day and month goes buy without you. "How sad". I think of you often and realize that you are in God's care and we are still here on this earth without you. It is still unbelievable that you are gone. I know how your mother must feel loosing such a wonderful son, I feel that I lost one too, the one I never had. Your laughter and joy for life will always be in my mind and heart. I am lost for words. I miss you so. (*I feel your presence every where)...........
BARBARA A. BLACK-RAHRIG
August 18, 2007
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
MzCazz
May 23, 2007
I am heart sick and in shock. How could something this huge get by me for so-so long. Sometimes we get so caught up in our own lives we unwittingly let too much time pass between friends and our kinship with them. Losing Stevie has tragically reminded me, every moment really counts. This is a major loss, that like many others have said, will leave a huge hole in me for a very long time. Over the last 10+ years many months would pass between our visits, but it only took seconds to catch back up to the present. I will forever miss our catch up sessions and rib cramping laughter that always ensued. With heartfelt sympathy and love, always.
Gilbert L. & Barbara A. Rahrig
April 23, 2007
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
James Lanier
April 23, 2007
I Love you my kind friend. Everyday that you have been gone we try to understand. Questions we keep asking our self’s, Why now Father would you take our dear friend, brother and a father him self? My faith has been ANCHORED in the passing of Stevie. Anyone that knew Stevie knew that he was a Warrior a Fighter a Champion of GOD. Look at Stveie’s life work look at what he did day in and day out. I know for a fact and to be a strong truth that STEVE RICE was called back to the Father to take part in the largest battle known to humanity. This is not a time for weakness or a time for denial. Look around take time to think and let this loss be and ignition point in your LIFE NOW!
We will see Mr. Rice again and he will stretch his arms out to help protect us in these days to come.
James – “ Steve , thank you sir for what you did for me.”
Barbara A. Black-Rahrig
April 21, 2007
In My Pocket
I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.
My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.
They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.
Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.
But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.
Gilbert L. & Barbara A. Black-Rahrig
April 21, 2007
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
Barabara A. Black-Rahrig
April 20, 2007
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
BARBARA A. BLACK-RAHRIG
April 19, 2007
Steve,
Another day passes without you here, fund memories of our friendship and the fun we had through out the years. I miss you and I know you miss all of us. Since your up in heaven, do me a favor and give all my brothers that passed away in 2006, (JANUARY, 2006)Harold M. Bateman, (MARCH, 2006)Roy E. Bateman and (AUGUST, 2006)Bobby Bateman, a hug for me and tell them I miss them, and that I don't have to worry about their health and safety anymore, because I know they are in GOD'S CARE, and one day we all will be together again.
Love you always,
Ashley Bateman
April 19, 2007
DADDY!
Wow, it's hard to believe that you're actually gone. I've spent the past 18yrs with you in my life and then all of the sudden, it's over. I miss you tremendously. Words can not describe how I feel right now. However, i'm glad to know that you're my gardian angel. I'm so lucky to have you as my dad. You always knew how to put a smile on my face or anyone elses' too. My mom always tells me "you're just like your dad" and now when she says that I smile and look up at you. I'm trying to hold myself together and it's been a difficult 4 months but, I know I have you here by my side to help keep me strong. I always dreamt that you'd be here with me when I graduate SHS next year, giving me a big hug and a high-five. Not to mention, walking me down the isle when I decide to get married. I know you'll be there with me in spirit.
I LOVE YOU!!
Love always,
Ashley aka "Chicken Lips" or "tall girl"
... you'll forever be missed and your life still lives on inside our hearts.
BARBARA A. BLACK-RAHRIG
April 18, 2007
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007
Barbara A. Black-Rahrig
April 18, 2007
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
Barbara A. Black
April 18, 2007
Steve,
I know that you are in Heaven with God making everyone laugh and teaching everyone how to have a good sense of humor, which you were good at. When I lost you, I lost a dear friend. When you were a young teenager I met you in Bradenton, Florida, where my brother, Roy E. Bateman was racing his "RED TRUCK-SAM". After years had passed, once again you came back into my path in 1992 after my returning from Austrailia. We spent several months sharing a wonderful friendship and sharing many wonderful days/nights talking about how our lives were going and what would come around the corner next. You and my daughter, Tammy Lynn(Clammy) spent four(4)wonderful years together. But most of all, I was happy because you made her laugh, cry and was her very-very best friend in the whole world. I had always hoped that you would become my son-in-law, but that wasn't in the cards for the two of you. Through out the years we stayed in contact with each other sharing our lifes up and down and we knew that if either one of us needed each other, we would be there. I will never forget the last telephone conversation I had with you in summer of 2006 before we left to go back to Arkansas for the summer. You were so excited about investing in real estate property and looking forward to a new start in your life. You will forever be in my thoughts and I know that you are in heaven which gives me so much piece because I know that you are in safe keeping in GODS HANDS and are in no more pain and suffering. The day of your memorial service, I kissed your lips and told you that one day we will see each other again, and once again, I will give you that same kiss and say I love you, Steve, as I always have. I know that you are watching all of us from up there and thinking how great you have it and how bad we have it, down here on this old earth, WITHOUT YOU. But, remember one day we will all be together again. LOVE YOU ALWAYS,
Barbara A. Black
April 18, 2007
Steve, what a great loss to all of your friends and family. I met you when you were a young teenager in Bradenton, Florida when my brother Roy Bateman was racing his big "RED TRUCK - SAM" From that moment on you became a true friend. In 1992 we shared memories and wonderful times together than no one can take away from us. Your relationship with my daughter, Tammy Lynn(Clammy), was a god-send to me, knowing that you were in her life and making her very happy. Unfortunately it wasn't in the cards that you became my son-in-law. Your sense of humor and gift for life was remarkable. I have so much love and respect for you and I do and I will always miss you, and very sad that I can't pick up the phone, just to hear your voice, joking and kidding around with me. The only thing that I am not sad about is where you are - IN HEAVEN - WITH GOD. Our friendship never waivered no matter how long we were apart and didn't see each other, when we did, it was like we were never apart. You will always be missed and never forgotten and just remember, no one can ever take away the wonderful fun times we shared together. When you needed me, I was there for you and when I needed you, you were there. We got thru sorrowful times together, and knew that no matter what, we would always be there for each other. I think about you all the time and think what a tragedy it was, GOD, taking you home so soon. "But, I have no worries because I know you are in no pain and your with God Almighty. "Like at your memorial services as I kissed you for the last time - I will see you again, and once again, kiss you in a very loving way.
Uncle Jimmy & Aunt Brenda Siegle
April 18, 2007
Stevie
Your loss has left a huge hole in all of our hearts. Uncle Jimmy and I watched you grow up from a little kid to a one of a kind amazing man. You were always so much fun, positive and a true gentleman. I can only hope that we all get a little piece of that from knowing you. You showed us what life is all about, never letting those little or big things get you down. Seeing the positive even in some of the darkest moments, you always had a joke that lightened everyone up. You left us with so many unforgettable memories that we will cherish forever especially this past Christmas, it was a priceless time. You left some big shoes to fill…….
We love you and miss you tremendously....
Uncle Jimmy, Aunt Brenda, Garett & Austin
Go Canes!!!!
Jill
April 18, 2007
Stevie,
You will always be remembered as that guy that knew how to have a good time, with a great smile and kind eyes. We had such a great time having a great time! Thank you for inviting me into the craziness of what the Sebring crew had to offer. Please keep an eye out for me. I miss you always. All my love, Jill
Shirley Edwards
April 3, 2007
Stevie,
You came back into my life at the moment I needed a friend the most and although you left it to soon again you are always in my thoughts. I carry with me memories of our friendship and the words of advice that you gave me. Never will I forget you or what you told me. I miss you. Forever you will be in my thoughts and prayers. Dottie, Kim and family you have suffered a great loss but have gained a great gift knowing that Stevie touched everyone and he was a blessing.
Christine T.
February 15, 2007
Stevie,
Thank you for always seeing the good in people even when they were at their lowest. You were always the smooth talker, a true ladies man. You will be missed.
I love you Stevie,
Vern
Kim Dokka
February 13, 2007
Stevie,
My Beloved Brother. My heart is broken and shattered. The loss of you is unbearable. It feels as if half of me has been torn off. It’s a loneliness that I can’t describe. It is through Gods strength and our faith that we will get through this. For with out my faith I would be completely lost in the darkness of grief. I know you are in Heaven with Jesus now and this brings me great comfort. Your role in my life is not over, that’s for sure. I feel that you are my Guardian Angel now. You will be there to help guide our entire family. I could not think of a better person to watch over me. In life you always were there to protect me and even your death can’t change that. For as long as I can remember it has been just you, Mom and me. What a great childhood we had growing up on the ranch. All the new adventures with each new house we lived in. I will always cherish those memories. Then we were blessed with your beautiful daughter Ashley. She has become such a wonderful young Woman and I know you are very proud of Her. In just a few days she will turn 18 years old. Her grace and wisdom goes well beyond her years and I can’t wait to see what she will do in life. I am so proud of you Stevie. What a great Man you have become. You were the best Brother, Son and Father that anyone could hope to be. You knew how to live life to the fullest and did not waste a drop. In your 35 years here with us you lived more that most. You knew the true meaning of life. What a kind, gentle loving soul you are. When God created you he knew just how special you would be. Your brightness still shines in us all and you will never be forgotten. You touched so many people’s lives. I hope that we can pay it forward and touch someone else the way you have touched us. I miss you so much and love you even more. I know that one day we will see each other again, so it’s not goodbye it’s bonvoyage.
I love you Stevie!
Your Sister,
Kimmy
Stephanie Lockwood-Carroll
February 12, 2007
We will miss Stevie dearly. He was a great person with an infectious laugh. Kim & family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Debbie Suftko
February 11, 2007
Stevie,
Words can't describe how much you will be missed. Over the years you have touched all of our lives in so many ways. You were always such a caring person and how you could make us all laugh and smile. Your daughter is such a beautiful woman, our hearts and prayers go out to her, your sister and your mom. Our family won't be the same without you in it. We love you - your cousin Debbie, Peter, Eric, Alex & Ryan Suftko
Chuck Rice
February 10, 2007
Stevie, I miss you. You left big holes in a lot of lives that no one else will ever fill. When I think of you, I remember first of all, that big, good looking smile! You appreciated life and knew how to live it. More important, you appreciated those around you, and always made them feel that way. You knew the real value of life was in each one of us. I watched you play the roles of son, brother, father, step-father, husband, nephew, cousin and friend. You played them all well, all our tears are evidence of that. What ever responsibility life laid upon you, you seized it, embraced it and fulfilled it. You left a trail of love to mark your path. When life knocked you down, you didn't make excuses. You got back up and moved forward. You had real class, Kid. I think of Rudyard Kipling's poem "If". In it he talks of what it means to be a man; to be able to hold your head and walk with kings, but not lose touch with the common man. You were all of that. You had a heart of gold and the gift of laughter. You were a real Prince. I love you and miss you, your uncle Chuck.
Tammy Seguin-Duguay
February 9, 2007
Stephen, You showed me what "a party" was truly. You lived life to have fun. I had some of the best years of my life with you... and worst but we will set that aside :) Your humor will always remain... there is no one like you and never will be. My thoughts are with your daughter, Ashley and your mom, Dottie and sister, Kim... and of course all the rest of your family. I love you much Big Worm and you will be in my heart forever. Clammy
Judi Farmer
January 17, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you
Leon Roberts, LFD
January 17, 2007
Steve, If I had a dollar for everytime we cut up and you made me laugh during our days at Riverside-Gordon, I would be rich. It was always a blast working with you and your humor was worth a million dollars. My sympathy to your Mom and family. You left us way too soon man. Thanks for all the fun memories you left.
Angie Rhodes
January 17, 2007
Kim,
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your brother. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time.
Ken Kellner
January 16, 2007
I knew Stevie as a teenager, and can honestly say that he was one of the funnest and funniest people I've known. I'm so sad at his passing and the loss that Kim, Dottie, and the rest of his family has experienced. You have my sincere, heartfelt condolences.
Mary Jo Cooper
January 16, 2007
Kim,
I am so sorry for your loss.
I never met your brother, but I know the pain of losing a brother.
I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
May God's love be your strength and comfort.
God Bless,
Mary Jo
Judy Merrell
January 15, 2007
I met Steve at the PDA class Kim taught. We talked briefly and he was such a friendly, nice looking, quality man.
Kim, I pray God will soon give you peace through thoughts of joyous times with him, and feel the love and support of family and friends. You and your family will be in my prayers.
Sharon O'Connor
January 14, 2007
I don't know of any words to help comfort you at this time. I don't believe anyone does. The pain is real and sad. Please know that you and your family will be in my prayers. I pray that God will give you the strenght and comfort you need at this time.
Sharon
Susan Newberry
January 14, 2007
I'm so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to your and your family.
Sherrie Culpepper
January 14, 2007
It is always hard to find words of comfort at a time like this. Just know there are lots of people out there with your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Nancy Ballew
January 14, 2007
My prayers are with you and your family as you endure this great loss. I know time will heal your pain, and memories will keep your brother alive in your heart.
Sincerely,
Karen Zwald
January 13, 2007
Steve,
I didn't know you but I enjoyed meeting you thru the PDA. You
attended a meeting with Kim and you were so cute to watch as you
hung your sister's artwork across the room.I remember your spirit and your sweet face and soft, kind smile.May your family find peace,
love,and comfort with their loving memories of you today and always.
And may they smile when they think of you...I send many heartfelt blessings to your family and friends.
Mets Schilstra
January 13, 2007
My heart goes out to Kim and the rest of the family for this great loss.
My prayers are with you.
Mona Cosse
January 13, 2007
I met Steve when Kim taught the gilding class at Peachree Decorative Guild in Atlanta. For that brief moment I could tell he was a "ray of sunshine" that touched everyone he met in a positive, kind way. He spoke of love for his sister Kim as he told stories of how she got started and blossomed in the field of art. Throughout the stories he would call her "Kimmy" and the way his face would light up---brother bragging on sister was so refreshing so see. Kim and family you are in my prayers.
Diana Shupe
January 13, 2007
I only met Steve once, at a class his sister Kim taught in Atlanta, but from first impressions, I could tell he was a solid person with a strong love for his sister. My prayers are with the family at this time of sorrow. Although Steve has passed on to another place, the significance of his life will stay alive through the memories of those who loved him, of those who knew him, and of those who knew of him until the last person who remembers him passes from this life too.
Cindy Coleman
January 12, 2007
I am so glad that I got to meet Stephen, at Kim's wedding, and again when she was teaching in November in Atlanta. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family, as I know this is a devastating loss. Warmest Regards, Cindy Coleman, Atlanta, GA.
Heather Doerr - Wilbur
January 12, 2007
Stevie...My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I hope instead of mourning your death, all will celebrate your life. I have so many great memories of our friendship. You were One-of-a-kind. Thanks for the many laughs and good-times!!! If there were a Party Hall of Fame, you would be in it!!! Aside from the crazy side...you had a precious Soul and Heart of Gold. You will be missed. Rest in Peace my Friend!! God be with you....
Kimberly Stuart
January 12, 2007
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Ashleigh Britt-Dunlap
January 12, 2007
Steve...I will always remember you and the joy you brought to everyone's life who you had touched. One thing that settles my thoughts is knowing that you truly lived your life to the fullest..and you would want us to do the same
Elizabeth Eikenberry-Spurlock
January 12, 2007
My sympathies and prayers are with the family. God bless you all.
Amber Chancey
January 12, 2007
Stevie you were a great "big brother" to me growing up. I can hear your laugh and see your smile.You will be sadly missed but left us w/ great memories and stories to keep your laughter alive.
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