William J. Rice

Wiliam J. "Bill" Rice, age 90, of Philadelphia, PA, passed away Friday, January 1, 2021 at Abington Memorial Hospital after a short illness. Bill passed peacefully with his children by his side.

Bill was born in Philadelphia, attended Frankford High School and Pierce Business School, and was a Staff Sergeant with the US Air Force serving in Korea.

Bill married Elizabeth "Betty" Edwards and moved to Bustleton where they lived until their deaths. Bill is survived by his children Barb (Tom) Filer, Cheri (Tom) Kenney, and grandchildren T.C., Corey, Brianna and Ryan.

Bill found his passion after becoming involved in the Bustleton Boys Club. Whether he was acting as coach or President, he could be found at 5 Diamonds, Lackman Playground or Northeast High School for the nightly game. After Bustleton, he coached St. Bernard's 8th grade boys CYO basketball team- where his 1980 team went on to win the state championship. From there he went on to help coach Archbishop Wood Boys and St. Basil Academy Girls basketball  programs. He became a staple at local sports events- everyone knew Mr. Rice, Coach, and Pop Pop Rice. He was never too busy to lend a hand, give a ride, throw batting practice or rebound foul shots! He will be forever missed.

Relatives and friends are invited to his Funeral Service Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at Maternity B.V.M. Church, 9220 Old Bustleton Avenue, Phila., PA 19115, with a Viewing from 9:00 to 10:00 AM, followed by Funeral Mass at 10:00 AM. Interment and Military Honors will follow at Hillside Cemetery, Roslyn, PA.

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