Tributes have been paid following the death of one of Newry’s most successful and well-known businessmen.
Noel Rice – who was perhaps most famous for his instrumental contribution to the family business, Rice Office Supplies, where he acted as Company Director until his resignation in 2008 – passed away peacefully at Carlingford Lodge on December 16.
His unfailing dedication to the family-business helped secure their status as one of Co. Down’s largest independent providers of business supplies.
By his former employees he was held in the utmost esteem as a “gentleman” and a “pleasure to work for”.
Those who knew him beyond the shop walls shared similar sentiments, regarding him as “a kindly, considerate gentleman” and “just the loveliest man”.
One person recalled their fond memories of Noel at work: “So, so sorry to hear about this. Noel was a gentleman. I used to really love popping into his shop on Monaghan street, as a youngster, when it was there. RIP Noel and condolences to the entire family circle.”
Another said: “Deepest Condolences to the Rice family circle on the passing of Noel, an utter gentleman to have dealt with in the family business. May he Rest In Eternal Peace.”
A death notice describes Noel as the beloved husband of Pauline (née McEvoy), loving father of David and Anne-Noelle, father-in-law to Tanya and Nigel, grandfather to Amy, Niamh, Daniel, Raymond, Abigail and Maitiú and loving brother to Catherine Tiffney and Donal.
His funeral is due to take place on Wednesday morning (December 18) at 11.40am, arriving for Requiem Mass at 12 noon in The Church of the Sacred Heart, Cloughoge. Burial will take place afterwards in Church Hill cemetery, Jonesborough.
Rice Office Supplies will close on Wednesday December 18 as a mark of respect.
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