In Memoriam - Willard G. Rice, Jr., MD

Dr. Willard “Bill” G. Rice, Jr. died on January 19, 2023. This marked the end of a remarkable era when, for about 100 years, there was a Dr. Rice caring for ophthalmology patients in the city of Worcester. Bill continued the traditions and values exemplified by his father and grandfather before him. It was important to him to be respectful of past generations of physicians, kind to his patients, and helpful to his colleagues. He did this faithfully with skill, caring, and dignity.

Bill was a quiet and gentle man. He was always kind. He served his country in the United States Air Force. He was well read and liked talking about current events concerning many things, including politics and sports. He liked the physical challenges of being outside and puttering in his yard. Those are things he liked. The two things he loved the most were his family and practicing medicine.

His love for his family was always evident. He enjoyed raising his family and watching his children mature and succeed. He was not an excitable person, but nothing would bring a bigger or prouder smile to his face than discussing and showing pictures of his grandchildren. He loved being the patriarch of the family.

He also loved medicine and being a practicing physician. In many ways that was who he was as he proudly carried on the example of preceding generations. He was a wonderful colleague and was frequently the first to offer help when someone was ill or needed coverage. He never declined. He would avoid conflict and arguments if possible and never spoke ill of anyone. Equally as important, he was always a source of quiet and wise counsel in all matters relating to practicing medicine. His many good qualities and respectful demeanor will be remembered by all who knew him as a wonderful example of an exceptional colleague. +

Source: https://www.telegram.com/obituaries/pneo0416687

Ed Kazarian, MD