Dell Lamont Rice

Dell Lamont Rice 50, of Snellville, Georgia departed from his earthly home during the late hours of June 19, 2021, at Eastside Hospital. He fought a courageous battle against multiple health issues and ascended in the presence of family and in the hearts & minds of loved ones.  

He was born on July 8, 1970, in Kansas City MO, the fruit of the blessed union between O’Dell & Ruby Mae Rice, who have both proceeded him in death. Dell was the eldest of 5 siblings: Lavenia Rice, Timothy Rice (proceeded in death), Felicia Rice, Gerald Rice (proceeded in death) and Ophelia Roach. Dell was educated in the Hickman Mills C-1 School district, attending Ingels Elementary, Smith Hale Middle School and then graduating from Ruskin High class of 1988. While in school he participated consistently in Boys Scouts, VBS, track, basketball, and the Ruskin marching band. While attending school, he worked various fast food and construction jobs part time.  

On March 1, 1991, Dell and his beloved Sharnese Owoyemi (née Higgins) of Kansas City gave birth to their only son, Antonio LaVelle Higgins. After gaining acceptance to one of Georgia’s most prominent art schools (The Art Institute of Atlanta), he pursued a degree in Music Entertainment Management. Dell attended college from 07/1994 until 03/1995, maintaining a 3.0 GPA. After receiving his certification in the field of technology, he went on to become a network engineer, computer specialist, and SCCM administrator. He maintained employment over the years working for: Bellsouth, Norfolk Southern, the CDC, the Navy and most recently NASA.  

In 1997, Dell wed his longtime love LaTonya (née Crowder) of Kansas City, and gave birth to sons, Devante LaVaughn Rice (March 17, 2001), and Dell Melchizedek Rice (born June 23, 2003). In his spare time, he produced soul and hip-hop music that was reminiscent of the music he grew up hearing from his father, the radio legend Dell Rice. He also temporarily coached his son’s basketball team at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, GA. 

Dell leaves behind to cherish his memory, three sons, Antonio, DeVante & Dell, three surviving siblings Lavenia, Felicia & Ophelia, his nieces and nephews: Gabriel Hayes, Daishana Rice, Jasmine Rice, Gerald LaVaughn Rice, and Teneshia Rice. His memory is also celebrated by a host of aunts, uncles, relatives, and friends. He forever will be remembered for his love of life, music, family and of course his infectious laugh! 

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