Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
About
FUNERAL HOME
Kenneth Rice Obituary
Lieutenant Colonel Kenneth A. Rice (Ret.), of Glen Allen, Va., passed peacefully on November 26, 2025, at age 80. Born June 16, 1945, in Rochester, N.Y., to Harold and Elnora (Bunce) Rice, Ken grew up in Penfield and graduated from Rochester High School in 1963. He was honored to attend the United States Military Academy, West Point, Class of 1967, later completing Ranger School and earning an MS in Industrial Relations from Purdue.
Ken had a 23-year career in the Army, serving honorably in Vietnam, Germany, South Korea, and throughout the U.S. He retired in 1990 at Fort Monroe, Va., with distinctions including the Bronze Star, Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medals, and Ranger Tab.
After military retirement, Ken spent 27 fulfilling years at Sentara Healthcare, where he led system-wide process improvement initiatives such as eCare, received a U.S. Senate Productivity Award, and built lifelong friendships. He was known for leading with humor and a focus on collaboration.
Some of Ken's witty sayings included, "Don't let perfect get in the way of good," and "Don't pole vault over mouse turds." Family was the center of his life. He showed up through celebrations and challenges alike.
He's survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Candice (O'Connor) Rice; son, Travis (wife Alden); daughter, Debra; grandchildren, Dylan (wife Natalie), Skylar (fiancé Donald), and Braylan; sister, Marilyn Christiano; brother, Richard (Dick) Rice (wife Susan); nieces and nephews; and adoring family dogs.
A service followed by a reception will be held at 11 am. on January 17, at Bliley's Funeral Home, 8510 Staples Mill Road, Henrico, Va. Guests are invited to bring a written memory of Ken for the family to cherish. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bon Secours Community Hospice House, https://communityhospicehouse.com/support. They cared for Ken and his family with exceptional kindness.
Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth Rice
Sponsored by Bliley's Funeral Home - Staples Mill Staples Mill Chapel.
How you can show support
0 Entries
Be the first to post a memory or condolences.
Make a Donation
in Kenneth Rice's name
Memorial Events
for Kenneth Rice
Funeral services provided by:
Bliley's Funeral Home - Staples Mill8510 Staples Mill Rd, Richmond, VA 23228
People and places connected with Kenneth
Richmond, VA
Richmond Times-Dispatch
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Kenneth's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Kenneth Rice's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
