James W. Rice

James William Rice, 84, of Galesburg, Illinois, died peacefully at home, Sunday, March 1, 2026 at 11:20 a.m.

Jim or Jimmy as he was fondly known, was born January 1, 1942 in Dallas, Texas, the son of W.C. and Dorothy Louise (Holt) Rice.

Jim married Darlene Griffith on November 16, 1979 in North Glenn, Colorado. Darlene survives as do his five children, Laura Rice of Bonham, Texas, Thomas (Karri) Yeater of Milan, Illinois, Diana Rice and Lisa Ellis both of Biggsville, Illinois, and Clifford (Kerry) Rice of Little Elm, Texas. He is also survived by thirteen grandchildren; and nineteen great grandchildren. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, his uncle “Snooks’” and a grandson, Christopher “Chuck” Yeater.

Jim worked as an over the road trucker spending most of his years working as a team driver with his wife Darlene, driving for Munson Trucking and spent his last many years working for Martin Transport, retiring on June 16, 2012. Jim and Darlene together accumulated almost 6 million miles. Jim worked his entire life, over 2.75 million miles without a single infraction or accident. A quiet man, Jim enjoyed bowling, playing cards or any game, and being with his family.

Cremation will be accorded. A celebration of life visitation will be Monday, March 9, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. No funeral service is planned. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

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