Rick was predeceased by his parents, Martha Jane and Marshall Royce. He is survived by his wife, Denise, his daughter Hailea, and five siblings-Curt (Judy) Royce (KY), Julie McDill (IN), Mary Bruce (Alex) Rae-Grant (MA), Barbara Smith (MS), and Bruce Smith (KY). He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Maureen Durbeck (FL) and Karen (Steve) Rigoli (MD), his cousins John Royce (NV) and Charles Royce (CT), and by many nieces and nephews-Katie, Marshall, Brandon, Brittany, Michael, Tucker, George, Noah, Bria, Beau, Hannah, Grant, and Claire.
Rick was born and raised in Louisville, KY. He received his undergraduate economics degree from Hampden-Sydney in VA and his MBA from Vanderbilt. Following a short return to Louisville, he moved to Nashville to continue his finance career.
Rick loved nature and especially enjoyed fishing the streams and lakes around Middle Tennessee. He arranged his work schedule so that on a pretty afternoon, especially if a small thunderstorm was brewing in the distance, he could head to nearby waters with his fishing rod. It was catch and release because fishing was all about the surroundings and the sport, and just maybe he could catch the same fish or future generations on another day.
With his wife, he raised a wonderful daughter who was the joy of his life (although fishing was a close second).
He was kind and generous, often giving funds anonymously to those in need. Sometimes just a small amount would prevent an eviction or other adverse event.
He was also fond of fun practical jokes. Family legend recalls that one December Rick and a co-conspirator secretly removed many round brass doorknobs from office doors. Co-workers were amazed when they eventually discovered the knobs were hiding in plain sight, hanging as ornaments on the Christmas tree.
Beginning many years ago, Rick faced challenges caused by health issues, but he did not let his situation define him. He was a fighter, and he lived a good life with his family and friends. We will miss him greatly.
There will be a gathering of family and friends at the Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home from 11am to 1pm on Wednesday, October 12, 2022 followed immediately by a Celebration of Life Service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to the Nashville Rescue Mission.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Woodlawn-Roesch-PattonFH.com for the Royce family.
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