James L. Rice, Jr

James L Rice, Jr. (95) passed away peacefully on September 23, after a long, wonderful life centered around his family, career, and providing humor to those around him. Jim’s 67 year marriage to Carol was the loving foundation for their family based on kindness, respect, and grace. Jim sense of humor endured him to his family, friends, and his wonderful caregivers at Marquette Manor.

Jim was born in Fort Dodge, Iowa to James L. Rice, Sr. and Inza Mater Rice. His work ethic began as a young boy when he swept out his father’s jewelry store to earn money to attend the Saturday afternoon movies. During World War II, his family moved to Des Moines when his father used his watchmaking skills to calibrate ammunition manufacturing equipment. While attending Roosevelt High School, Jim played the bass clarinet, was drum major in the marching band, became an Eagle Boy Scout, and met his future wife Carol.

Jim graduated from the University of Iowa with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in General Science, followed by one year of medical school before he was drafted into the army. While stationed at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri, he married the sweet flute player, Carol Carnahan. Upon discharge, he returned to the University of Iowa and enrolled in the first class of the Masters of Hospital Administration program.

His Hospital Administration career began as a resident and advanced up to the Assistant Administrator at Trumbull Memorial Hospital in Warren, Ohio. In 1966, Jim joined the University of Oklahoma Hospitals in Oklahoma City until 1973 when he became Associate Administrator at Indiana University Hospitals. With his vast knowledge and experience, Jim joined the Indiana State Department of Health to help surrounding counties until his retirement in 1989.

Jim was a lifelong believer in the importance of donating blood. He received the Beacon of Hope Award for served as a Board Member of Versiti Blood Center of Indiana from 1977 to 2021 and donating over 20 gallons of blood.

Jim was a member of the Second Presbyterian Church of Indianapolis since 1973. He participated in the church choir, SAWs, and Habits for Humanity.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, his grandson David, and his beloved wife Carol. He is survived by his children Jean Nelson (Alan), Mary Agnew (Robert), and Robert Rice, along with nine grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, several nieces, and a nephew.

Jim’s Celebration of Life will be held at Second Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis on Friday, October 24 at 2 pm with visitation afterwards. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Second Presbyterian Church (SecondChurch.org).

Arrangements entrusted to Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Funeral Home