Jo Anne Rice

July 18, 1948 - January 2, 2022

Jo Anne Rice,73 of Lexington, NC passed away on Sunday, January 2, 2022. She was born in Danville, VA on July 18, 1948, daughter of the late John David Rice and Elva Elizabeth Rice. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her godson Brandon Clontz. Jo Anne was raised in Caswell County, NC and graduated from Bartlett Yancey High School. She resided in Greensboro, NC and was employed at Cone Mills as a Standard Engineer/Supervisor, retiring with 35 years of service. She also managed The Vacuum Center providing services where she enjoyed hands on work. Jo Anne was known for her exceptional work ethic, decision making capabilities and had a servant’s heart which led her to selflessly care for others. She was an avid supporter and member of the board at the Humane Society of Davidson County where she enjoyed spending time with friends sharing the same mission. She loved her family and friends whole-heartedly. Jo Anne is survived in death by her lifelong friend Shelia Everhart of Lexington, NC; godsons, Daniel Clontz (Lesley) and Xander Clontz of Lexington, NC; brothers, David Ray Rice (Diane) of Blairs, VA and James Allen Rice (Debra) of Providence, NC; sister, Brenda Rice Thompson of Providence, NC; devoted nephew, James Scott Rice (Teresa) of Danville, VA; Derrick Thompson (Allie) of Chesapeake, VA; niece, Dana Thompson (Robert) of Eden, NC; nephew, John Thomas Lovelace of Providence, NC; great-nephews, Jason Rice and Cody Rice of Danville, VA, Robert Phelps, Jr. of Eden, NC; great-niece; Lauren Hernandez of Eden, NC; her beloved pet Callie; and many close friends. She will be forever missed by all while she rejoices with her Lord and savior. A Graveside service will be held on Saturday, January 15 at 2:00 pm at Bethel United Methodist Church in Pelham, NC with Pastor Butch Robinson officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made to Humane Society Davidson County, P.O. box 1791, Lexington, NC 27293. Wrenn-Yeatts Yanceyville is respectfully serving the Rice family.