Rachel Butler Rice

Rachel Butler Rice, of Spartanburg, SC passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026 at the age 90.

Born on December 24, 1935, in Rutherford, North Carolina, Rachel was the daughter of the late Charles and Sue Butler.

Rachel shared 57 wonderful years of marriage with the love of her life, the late Clyde Everette Rice. Together they built a home centered on love, family, and unwavering devotion.

Rachel spent more than 20 years working in retail as a saleslady with Butte Knit Stores. She truly loved her work and cherished the friendships she made throughout her career. She found joy in life's simple pleasures. Rachel had a gift for growing beautiful flowers that brightened every season, and she treasured dancing with her husband throughout their years together. She was dearly loved by her many friends and was known for her caring heart and kindness.

One fond family memory is of Rachel’s playful exchanges with her son, Monk, and her grandson, Burke, who especially enjoyed teasing her by calling her "Granny"—a nickname she insisted made her feel much older than she wanted to be. Their lighthearted banter became a cherished memory her family will always hold close.

She is survived by her sons, Clyde Douglas "Doug" Rice (Glenda) and Stephen Mark "Monk" Rice; her grandson, Tom Wilke (Sally); and her great-grandchildren, Thomas, Angela, and Summer. She predeceased by her son, James Paul "Mike" Rice; her daughter, Elizabeth Ann "Libby" Rice; and her grandson, Stephen "Burke" Rice.

Rachel's legacy of love, strength, kindness, and dedication will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Rachel’s funeral service will be Sunday, July 19, 2026 at 2:45pm at J.M Dunbar Funeral Home, 690 Southport Rd, Roebuck, SC 29376. Visitation will be prior starting at 2:00pm.