Francis J. Rice

Francis J. Rice passed away peacefully on Friday, November 9, 2018. He was 94.

Francis was born in South Philadelphia. He was a longtime resident of Burlington, NJ.

Son of the late Gustavus and Katherine Rice. He is preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Gloria Rice (Mazzuca) and 8 siblings.

Francis is survived by daughters Francyne Wharton (James) and Susan Gambescia (Stephen) and son Francis (Theresa). He had 9 grandchildren: Jim, Stephanie, Natalie, Jason, AJ, Stephen, Kelly, Robert, and Katherine and 4 great grandchildren: Kellen, Quinn, Julianna, and Colton. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Carmen Mazzuca, and many nieces and nephews.

Francis was one of brothers who served six in WWII. He was decorated with several medals including a Purple Heart Medal, 2 Bronze Stars, and a Victory Medal. He was a life member of the American Legion and active in the Wyndmoor, PA and Sellersville, PA Posts. Francis worked at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard for 30 years and was a loyal Philadelphia Eagles fan who got to see the Super Bowl LII win against the Patriots!

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, November 15th at Sacred Heart Church, Manoa Road, Havertown, PA. Interment will be private. [Saint Peter and Saint Paul Cemetery, 1600 S. Sproul Road, Springfield, PA]

In lieu of flowers, send contributions to The American Legion - Sellersville Post #255, 75 N. Main Street, Sellersville, PA 18960.