[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 54 (Friday, March 29, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E294-E295]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING APOSTLE DR. LEE F. RICE

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. CORI BUSH

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 29, 2024

  Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, along with the people of St. 
Louis, to pay tribute to the remarkable life and enduring legacy of 
Apostle Dr. Lee F. Rice, a dedicated servant of God whose impact 
extends far beyond the walls of Victory Christian Outreach Church. Dr. 
Rice's commitment to spreading the Gospel and serving his community 
leaves an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
  Dr. Rice was more than a pastor; he was a beloved husband, father, 
grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his loving family, including 
his adult children: Rhoda Rice, Sardius Rice, Pastor Daphne Rice-Bruce 
(spouse-Alex

[[Page E295]]

Bruce), Minister Romney Rice-Dunn (spouse-Minister Fred Dunn), and 
Minister Bryttani Rice. His legacy also lives on through his many 
grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and countless other cherished 
family members and friends.
  The educational background of Dr. Rice and his beloved wife, the late 
Apostle Dr. Doris V. Rice, speaks volumes about their commitment to 
ministry and service. Both graduated from Rhema Bible Training College 
in Tulsa, Oklahoma and received Family Counseling Degrees from National 
Lewis College. Their dedication to theological education culminated in 
the attainment of Biblical Studies Doctorate Degrees from Pillsbury 
Bible College.
  For over 40 years, they served as shepherds of the house of Victory 
Christian Outreach Church, nurturing a membership that at one time 
exceeded 500 members. Their leadership extended to the broader 
community, where they organized years of outreach events serving 
families, children, and youth with food, clothing, childcare, family 
counseling, and utility assistance. In times of crises, their church 
provided a safe refuge for families in need.
  As Senior Pastors, Church Administrators, and Community Leaders, Dr. 
Lee F. Rice and Dr. Doris V. Rice dedicated themselves to partnering 
with local churches to share the Gospel and provide a safe place for 
worship. Their church became a cornerstone of the community, hosting 
annual events such as Octoberfest, Be A Blessing, and the Easter Egg 
Hunt. Their contributions were recognized by the University City School 
District, which lauded Victory Christian Outreach Church as an 
outstanding community contributor.
  Pastor Lee and Pastor Doris have also had a profound impact on my 
life. They were my personal pastors for many years as well as my 
employers, and their daughter Daphne, who now serves as the current 
pastor, has been my very close friend since we were teens. Their other 
daughters, Romney and Bryttani, are like sisters. I am proud to have 
had the privilege of working at their preschool for a decade, and where 
I grew to love the important and lifesaving role that childcare 
providers have in our community.
  In honoring the life of Apostle Dr. Lee Rice, we celebrate a man of 
faith, integrity, and compassion. His legacy of service and devotion to 
God will continue to inspire generations to come. May his memory be a 
blessing to all who knew and loved him and may his spirit of love and 
generosity continue to shine brightly in our community.

                          ____________________