[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 19 (Tuesday, February 2, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E90]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING THE SERVICE OF RICHARD RICE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. TRENT KELLY

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 2, 2021

  Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate 
the life of Mr. Richard Rice who passed away on Saturday, January 16 at 
North Mississippi Medical Center. His beloved wife, Jill, passed away 
in November of 2020.
  Richard was born in September of 1940 in Ware, Massachusetts to 
Thomas and Jean Lech Rice. After attending public high schools, Richard 
enlisted in the United States Navy. During Basic Training in 
Millington, Tennessee, he met his wife Jill. The two were married in 
September of 1960. Throughout his military career, Chief Petty Officer 
Rice served as a meteorologist, forecasting sea swells and tracking 
atmospheric changes for missile launches.
  In July, 1979, Richard and Jill moved to Tupelo, Mississippi where 
Richard soon became a household name. He was Northeast Mississippi's 
weatherman and delighted children each Christmas as the ``Santa 
Tracker.'' He was deeply invested in the community, frequently speaking 
to local organizations and schools about his career in meteorology. He 
mentored colleagues at WTVA and was a role model for local 
broadcasters. Off screen, Richard was a dedicated husband, father, and 
grandfather, as well as an accomplished gardener.
  Richard Rice is survived by his daughter, Debbie; three 
grandchildren, John, Robert, and Scotty; and three great-grandchildren, 
Lauren, Aaryn, and Chloe.
  Richard Rice was a local hero, community leader, and role model to 
many. I sincerely thank him for his service to the state of Mississippi 
and extend my deepest condolences to his loved ones.

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