From: McLeansboro Times, November 22, 1917

W. J. RICE RELIEVED FROM HIS SUFFERING
Passed From This Life Monday Afternoon;
Was Buried Wednesday

W. J. Rice was born near the east line of Crook township, December 12, 1841, and died at his home in McLeansboro November 19, 1917, aged 75 years, 11 months and 7 days.  His parents, Toliver G. Rice and wife among the early settlers of our county and moved to McLeansboro when log houses were the order of the day.

Jasper Rice lived his life in Hamilton county and was a true Hamiltonian.  He was married to Miss Mary Ann Savage, September 30, 1868.  To this union were born Edward, of Los Angeles, Cal.; William, of Dallas, Tex., Nellie, now the wife of J. T. Daily; Oda M., of Riverside Cal,; Harry and Eugene, who died many years ago.

The first Mrs. Rice died March 6, 1879.  He lived unmarried until February 12, 1897, when he was married to Miss Hattie Richards, with whom he lived happily until his death.  Two sons, Roy M., and Dorsey B., and two daughters, Effie and Geneva, blessed this union.  He leaves a loving wife, eight children, six grand children, five great, grand children and a host of friends to mourn his departure.

Mr. Rice was a man among men!  In 1861, he enlisted in the service of his country and when his first enlistment expired he immediately re-enlisted and served until the close of the war.  He belonged to the famous 6th Illinois Cavalry, and was in almost every battle in which his command was engaged.  He was in the battles Franklin, Tenn., Nashville, (unreadable)

(His funeral was at) Presbyterian church Wednesday, November 21, at 2:30 o'clock p.m. conducted by Rev. A. I. Rosser assisted by Rev. J. T. Kelley.  The Knights of Pythias conducted the services at the grave.  Interment in Odd Fellows cemetery.

We notice on the funeral card, "William J. Rice entered eternal life, at this home in McLeansboro, Monday November 19, 1917."  This is true.