Jeffrey L. Rice

Jeffrey L. Rice, 58, of Cincinnatus, NY, passed away on Monday, March 16, 2020, at Upstate University Hospital, Syracuse, NY, while surrounded by his family.

Jeff was born in Cortland, NY, on May 8, 1961, the son of the late Donald and Joanna Torrey Rice.  A lifelong resident of the area, he had worked as a union carpenter and welder for J&B Welding for over 30 years.  Jeff was an avid trapper and hunter and enjoyed playing golf.

He is survived by his life partner, Judith Cass; and his step-children, William Cass of PA, Timothy (Kristine) Cass of Pitcher, and Tina (Donald II) Knickerbocker of Cincinnatus.  He also leaves behind his brothers, John (Pat) Rice, Jim (Lorelei) Rice, Jay (Julie) Rice, and Joel (Pam Ross) Rice, all of Cincinnatus, and Jerry (Nicole) Rice of DeRuyter; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; several stepbrothers, stepsisters, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Janette Rice, in 1960; and his stepfather, Bruce McDonald, in 2020.

The family will be present to receive friends at the K.L. Sharp Funeral Home, Cincinnatus, NY, on Saturday, March 21, 2020, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.  Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Saturday at 1:00 p.m. with Fred M.S. Downs officiating.  Burial will be in Taylor Rural Cemetery.  Expressions of sympathy in memory of Jeff may be directed to a charity of one’s choice.