Michael Lee Rice, 78, of Chillicothe, passed at 11:57 p.m. Friday, March 7, 2025 at his residence following a brief illness.

He was born January 9, 1947, in Franklin Furnace, Ohio, to the late Homer Charles and Doris Ailene Hill Rice.

Surviving are a son, Michael Shane Rice, of Chillicothe; daughters, Melinda Rice, of Chillicothe and Jaimi Weaver, of Florida; grandchildren, Tyler Michael Rice, Kyla Michelle Rice and Briana Nichole Sherman; and 4 great grandchildren.  He was predeceased by his wife, Sandee Burden Rice; father, Homer Charles Rice; and mother, Doris A. Cockefair.

Michael was a welder.  He served in the United States Army's 25th Infantry Division during the Vietnam War.

A celebration of his life will be held at the convenience of the family.  Arrangements are under the direction of the WARE FUNERAL HOME.

You may sign his online register at www.warefh.com