James F. Rice, 74, of Worcester, died Wednesday December 16th after a brief illness.

He retired in 2013 from Quinsigamond Community College after 44 years as a Professor Emeritus.

He was the son of the late Edith M. and Albert F. Rice. He is survived by his two sisters Kathleen M. Ecker of Worcester and Margorie A. Falcone of Walnut Creek, California along with five children; James A. Rice of Northbridge, Deirdre A. Carlson of Auburn, Juliane Rice of Jamaica Plain, Brian A. Rice of Oceanside, California, and Zachary J. Rice of Dedham; as well as six grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Born in Worcester, MA, he graduated from South High School. His passion for teaching led him to a career at Quinsigamond Community College (QCC) where he was a Professor of English. In addition to teaching, he was also an active member in a number of professional organizations including the National Education Association (NEA), Massachusetts Community College Council (MCCC), Massachusetts Teachers Association (MTA), and National Council on Higher Education (NCHE). He served in a number of roles within those organizations including MCCC President and NCHE President. Throughout his career at QCC his priority has always been the college, his colleagues, the Union, and most importantly the students.

Calling hours will be held from 4:00 until 7:00 P.M. Sunday December 20th in O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue. His funeral will be held on Monday, December 21st, with a Mass at 11:00 A.M. at St. Andrew the Apostle Church, 5 Spaulding Street. The family asks that Mr. Rice’s dedication to higher education be honored with donations to the QCC Foundation at www.qcc.edu/foundation/how-give in lieu of flowers.