RICE Hargus "Tex" Rice, age 73, of Pataskala, died unexpectedly Monday, October 27, 2008 at Mt. Carmel East. Born December 19, 1934 in Station Camp, KY to the late Hobart and Bertha (Jenkins) Rice. Originally from Croton, he was a graduate of Hartford High School in 1953, where he played football and baseball. A diesel mechanic and machinist by trade, he as also worked as a security guard. An avid Ohio State and Browns fan, he was a sentimental saver, who was a friend to all. Family was always first with Tex. He was a member of Victory Baptist Church in Etna, where he was a choir member and grounds keeper. A man of integrity, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, and coaching his children's various sport teams. A wonderful father and husband, he is survived by his wife of 28 years, Jean (Karnes), whom he considered his angel; children, Sharon (David) Prose of Ostrander, Scott Rice of Delaware, Rick (Tracy) Rice-Wheeler of Whitehall, Sarah Rice of Columbus, Jerry (Lisa) Rice of Whiteh! all; 13 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; sister, Jewell Sabados of Sunbury; brother-in-law, Jerry (Debbie) Karnes of Pataskala. Also preceded in death by son Steve in 2007, brothers Clayton Rice, Roy Evans, sisters Neva Rice, Mabel Jenkins. Friends may call Thursday 6-8 p.m. at Victory Baptist Church, 9564 Hazelton-Etna Rd. (SR 310), Etna, where service will be Friday 3 p.m. with Rev. Mark Plaugher officiating. Arrangements entrusted to DeVORE-SNYDER FUNERAL HOME, Sunbury. Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com. Sign the online guestbook at www.dispatch.com/obituaries Published in The Columbus Dispatch on 10/29/2008