STEVE RICE's Obituary
PERRY –
Steven Franklin “Steve” Rice, 73, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, after a hard-fought battle with ALS. Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at Watson-Hunt Funeral Home in Perry with Rev. Leslie Albritton officiating. The family will receive friends the hour before the service, from 3:00 until 4:00 p.m., at the funeral home. Interment will be private. Flowers will be gratefully accepted, or contributions may be made in memory of Steve to the ALS Foundation at https://www.als.org or 1300 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 600, Arlington, VA 22209.
Steve was born on June 4, 1952, in Chillicothe, Ohio. He was a man known for his faith, humor, competitive spirit, and deep love for his family. Steve dedicated many years of his life serving and being actively involved in church, where he shared his faith and wisdom with the community. He was a member of Calvary Way Community Church. His creativity, however, was not limited to his spiritual teachings; he was also a skilled woodworker. Steve crafted beautiful clocks, children’s chairs, and various pieces of furniture. From a young age, he was a talented ball player and had a deep love for sports, a love and skill that he passed down to his children and grandchildren. He absolutely loved being at the games and watching his children and grandchildren play ball. His passion for golf was evident, as he could almost always be found on the golf course with his brother, Rick, playing the game he loved. Steve’s competitive nature was balanced by his humor and ability to find creative solutions, a trait that always entertained his family and friends. He loved traveling, camping, and going to the beach, activities that allowed him to be adventurous and spend quality time with his loved ones. His life will leave a lasting impact on all who knew him. His memory will be cherished and kept alive through his faith and the lessons he imparted on so many others throughout his life.
Steve was predeceased by his father, Alfred Franklin Rice.
Left to cherish the memories they made with Steve are his loving and devoted wife of nearly 45 years, Elaine Rice of Perry; his beloved mother, Erma Rice, of Perry; his children, Tiffany McCarter (Jason) of Roswell, Heather Borim (Justin) of Roswell, Presley Rice (Kristy) of Perry, Daniel Rice (Jenna) of Perry, and Philip Rice (Lexie) of Perry; 15 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild; his brother, Rick Rice (Darlene) of Perry; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Condolences for the family may be left in the online guestbook at https://www.watsonhunt.com. Watson-Hunt Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
What’s your fondest memory of STEVE?
What’s a lesson you learned from STEVE?
Share a story where STEVE's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with STEVE you’ll never forget.
How did STEVE make you smile?