Hugh lived the Rotary Motto

Hugh began his banking career in 1959 in Dublin. In 1969 he was promoted to Assistant Manager in AIB Enniskillen at which branch he became manager in 1974. Always a keen sportsman he continued his sports activities with cricket, rugby and was a founder member of the Enniskillen Swimming Club.

In Enniskillen he began his lifelong interest in golf. He took part in Enniskillen’s twinning with Bielefeld, Germany for many years. He joined Junior Chamber, taking on the Presidency and in 1978 became Northern Ireland Regional Group Chairman. He represented Northern Ireland at World Conferences in the Philippines, Japan, Berlin and Montreal. For this work he was awarded a Senatorship of Junior Chamber.

In 1981 Hugh was transferred as Manager to AIB Banbridge. With enthusiasm he settled into life in Banbridge, joining the Golf Club, the Rotary Club, Banbridge Academy Board of Governors, and working for many charitable organisations.

In his banking career Hugh was totally dedicated to his customers, always willing to help and advise. He retired from AIB in 1993.

In retirement Hugh forged ahead with his dedication to Rotary, taking the Presidency on three occasions. He undertook fundraising through running barbecues and film premieres at the old Iveagh cinema.

He was involved with student interviews and development and social events at the Gateway club.

Over many years he represented Banbridge Rotary Club at National Conferences and functions throughout Ireland, England and Scotland.

For his dedication and work with Rotary he was delighted to be honoured with the Paul Harris Fellowship.

At Banbridge Golf club Hugh worked with Rotary and he was delighted to be honoured with the Paul Harris Fellowship.

At Banbridge Golf Club Hugh worked through all the official positions, was a member of council and was elected captain in 2008.

While weakened by increasing health problems, Hugh got on with the job, giving his usual 100 per cent.

The Rice family wish to take this opportunity to thank all the medical and nursing staff of Daisy Hill hospital in Newry, who cared for Hugh and his family during the past three months.

They also wish to thanks most sincerely relatives, friends and the clergy who visited Hugh in hospital and all those who sympathised and helped them during this sad time.

Hugh lived the Rotary Motto - “Service Above Self”.