Gerald "Jerry" Lee Rice, Sr.

Gerald "Jerry" Rice Sr., born September 8, 1937, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2024. Known affectionately as Jerry to his friends and family, he was a glowing example of integrity, always greeting everyone with a warm, loving smile. Carrying a fondness for laughter, reading, golfing, and engaging in games of backgammon, cribbage,and dominoes, among other board games, he enjoyed life to the fullest. Jerry's bright personality will be deeply missed.

Jerry was a proud alumnus of the General Motors Institute, where he graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1960. He dedicated a large part of his life to his career in sales of industrial hydraulic equipment before retiring in 2002 to live on Isabella Golf Course in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. Jerry was a devout attendee of Christ Lutheran Church during their time in Hot Springs Village. Jerry's faith in Jesus Christ played a significant part in his life.

One of his most cherished accomplishments included a beautiful 60-year marriage to his loving wife, Bernadine Rice. Together they built a rich life, filled with love and surrounded by their sons Greg (Diana) Rice, Steve (Anna Marie) Rice, and Jerry Jr. (Dannett) Rice. Jerry's zest for life extended to his love for the Michigan Wolverines and Detroit Lions, along with his enjoyment of Bernadine's cooking, and especially the joy he found in being surrounded by his twelve grandchildren: Megan, Greg Jr., Garrett, Madeline, Chloe, Forrest, Lauren, Ethan, Noah, Naomi, Joshua, and Faith Rice. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of his loved ones.

Jerry was predeceased by his mother, Esther Rice, and his father, Elco Rice.

In memory of Jerry, a service will be held on February 5, 2024, at 12:00 PM at St. Andrew's Lutheran Church in Hurst, TX. In remembrance of Jerry’s life and the love he shared with so many, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, charitable donations be made to St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church in Hurst,TX.

Please feel free to share cherished memories of Jerry to the family via email ([email protected]).