Gerald (Jay) Edward Rice Jr., age 48 of Stratford passed away on Wednesday, August 9, 2017 at Bridgeport Hospital with his loving family by his side. He was the beloved husband of Amy Bott Rice.
Born in Stamford he was the son of Rozella Rice and the late Gerald E. Rice Sr.. Jay was a driver for 12 years with CDI before his battle with ALS.  Jay played football for West Haven High where he won two state championships and gained a life long brotherhood with his teammates. He then went on to play football for the University of New Haven Chargers. Jay was a funny man with a mischievous way about him. If you knew Jay, you knew his smile. He was loved by all and will be missed.
In addition to his wife and mother he is survived by his sons; Gerald VanDrooge of Monroe and Kevin Bott of Stratford.  His sister Dawn Marie Rice of Texas. He is also survived by his uncle Raleigh Padgett and his wife Mary, his father-in-law and mother-in-law John and Lynn Bott of Stratford, as well as many other aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. The family would like to send a special thank you to his caregiver Valerie Jenkins for her exceptional care she gave to Jay over the past two years.
Funeral Services will take place on Wednesday, August 16, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Episcopal Church, 2000 Main Street, Stratford with Rev. Scott Lee officiating.  Friends may greet the family from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday August 15, 2017 at the Dennis & D'Arcy - Abriola & Kelemen Funeral Home 2611 Main St. Stratford CT 06615.  Interment will be held privately.  In lieu of flowers donations in his memory may be made to ALS. To offer online condolences please visit www.dennisanddarcy.com