George Phillip Rife, 74, left this earth to be with the heavenly father on Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2018 at his home in Long Branch.
George's story began May 29, 1943, when he was born the seventh of eight children to the late John C. and Ruby Joplin Rife in Graham. He grew up, attended school and was a resident of Graham for many years, making lifelong friends before moving to South Texas then settling and retiring in East Texas. He was a member of Old Shiloh Baptist Church of Mount Enterprise, and Pine Hill Masonic Lodge #95. George had a strong work ethic, owned several businesses and was a retired independent petroleum landman. He enjoyed horses, hunting, fishing, the outdoors, carpentry, restoring antiques, making money, spending money, his mothers' homemade lemon pie and an occasional drink of good smooth whiskey. He loved life, his wife, his kids, grandkids, great-grandkids, his family and his dog, Parker. He was a faithful friend who was well-known for his outgoing, quick wit and personality. He never let an opportunity pass him by, would make you laugh no matter your mood, and always had a great story to tell. He was a proud conservative Republican who believed in God, the savior Jesus Christ, the Constitution of the United States of America, and to always stand up for what you believe in. He taught his children that if you don't stand up for what you believe in, you will fall for anything. He also taught his children that it is okay to play hard as long as it doesn't get in the way of working hard, and to love, forgive and look out for each other.
George is survived by his wife, Terry Rife; daughter, Denise Rife Tinnon of Graford; son, Ben Rife and wife, Carrie, of Graford; daughter, Tammy Rife Hankins and husband, Chalk, of Graford; son, Dan Rife and wife, Wanda, of Lake Tawakoni; and daughter, Kendra Rainbolt and husband, Wesley, of Long Branch; 13 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; four brothers, Clifton Rife, Kim Rife, Bill Rife and Carl Rife; number of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Phillis Rife McNeely; sister, Dorris Rife MacBeth; and brother, Kenneth Rife.
A celebration of his life memorial will be held Saturday, Feb. 3, at 10 a.m. at Clayton Community Center in Clayton.
A special thank you to Heartsway Hospice of Longview, for their loving care and support. In lieu of flowers the family requests that you make a donation to Heartsway Hospice at 4351 McCann Road, Longview, TX, 75605 /heartswayhospice.org, or to Parkinsons Foundation at 200 SE 1st St., Ste. 800, Miami, FL 33131/ parkinsons.org.