02/24/2026
James H. Rice
James H. Rice, age 84, of Castalian Springs, entered into rest on Saturday, February 21, 2026. He was born on September 26, 1941, in Memphis, Tennessee.
James was truly a multifaceted man, with incredible life experiences. James was a gifted musician who could play many instruments since he was a teenager. In fact, not only was he an award-winning member of the marching band, he was also in a band called the “Rocking Rebels.” He mastered the art of storytelling throughout his life in conversation as well as through writing novels, songs, and poems. Upon graduating Gallatin High School in 1960, the members of the “Rocking Rebels” all went their separate ways; just a few days shy of being offered a deal from Sun Records, of Memphis, Tennessee.
Immediately after high school, James honorably served in the United States Airforce during the Vietnam War era. James was an assistant to the Chaplain, and musician for the honor guard. It was with great esteem that James was engaged in the final memorial for President John F. Kennedy. He played taps every hour, on the hour, as well as being present for the wing salute.
Following his military service, James was a valued machinist for Tennessee Valley Authority for 22 years. He was heavily relied on for fixing machinery and blueprinting his own designs for parts. He also had a side business where he restored guns to pristine condition. However, he ultimately retired from the Waste and Water Treatment Center of Gallatin.
James deeply appreciated the beauty of nature and God’s creation. He frequently visited many parks and spent countless hours sitting on his porch. James also enjoyed deer hunting and fishing.
Above all, James was faithful to the Lord; he was a member of First United Methodist Church of Gallatin, since 1958.
He will be remembered for his sense of humor, his generous spirit, and how effortlessly he was able to connect with others. He was a wonderful husband, father, and friend.
Although James will be deeply missed, his family finds peace that he is with his Lord and Savior.
James Harold Rice leaves behind his daughter, Christie Rice, to cherish his memory; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Bobbie S. Rice; father, John Rice; mother, Wylma Rice; brothers, John Rice Jr, Wylie Rice, Charles Duggan, Russell Duggan; and sister, Nell Buie.
Visitation with the Rice family will take place at Crestview Funeral Home, on Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM, and continue Friday, February 27, from 12:00 PM until time of the funeral service at 2:00 PM. Pastor Michael Stewart will be officiating. Interment in Sumner Memorial Gardens will immediately follow.
The Rice family would like to recognize Carolyn Stewart, Teresa Ragland, Harold Sullins, Brooklyn Ragland, Jack and Agnes, Dewayne Long, and Wayne Wright, as dear friends and honorary pallbearers.
As well as extend a special thank you to the healthcare providers who delivered excellent care to James Rice, including the staff of The Waters of Gallatin (especially Nurse Aid Amanda and Kelly Reed), Alive Hospice, Sumner Medical Group, Dr. Brian Stewart, Urology Associates of Gallatin (Dr. Ramirez, Dr. Wood, and Dr. Morris), and US Renal Care (Dr. Priyadarshi).
~
In Memory Of My Dad
If I could write a story
It would be the greatest ever told
Of a kind and loving father
Who had a heart of gold
I could write a million pages
But still be unable to say, just how
Much I love and miss him
Every single day
I will remember all he taught me
I’m hurt but won’t be sad
Because he’ll send me down the answers
And he’ll always be MY DAD
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