TSgt Floyd Dean Rice, USAF, Retired

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He found joy in simple, meaningful things, especially tending his garden, and he was known for often keeping several gardens going at the same time.

TSgt Floyd Dean Rice, USAF, Retired, of Asheville, passed away on Sunday, November 8, 2026, in Asheville. He was born on August 11, 1947, in Asheville.

A 1965 graduate of Enka High School, Floyd went on to dedicate 22 years of faithful service to the United States Air Force. Serving from 1966 until his retirement in 1988, he began his military career as a baker and later rose into administration and club management. His years in uniform reflected a life of steady commitment, hard work, and service.

Alongside his military career and in the years that followed, Floyd was a longtime member of New Morgan Hill Baptist Church. He found joy in simple, meaningful things, especially tending his garden, and he was known for often keeping several gardens going at the same time. He generously helped his neighbors by mowing grass and working in their gardens, offering his time and kindness freely. A simple man in the best sense of the word, he became affectionately known throughout his neighborhood as the “Mayor,” and he was well loved by all who knew him.

Floyd is survived by his beloved wife, Regina Sara Stockton Rice, whom he married on July 19, 1969. He also leaves behind his son, Tracy Rice and wife Jennifer; his grandchildren: Dustin Scott Rice and wife Ashley, Sarah Audrey Collis, Zack Stone Rice, Zander Shane Rice, Tristan Dean Rice, and Chelsey Nicole Rice; his sister, Mildred Patricia Rice Conner; and by many nieces and nephews. He will be remembered with deep love by his family and by the many friends and neighbors whose lives were brightened by his generosity, warmth, and steady presence.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Victor S. Rice and Elsie Lucille Caldwell Rice; and his daughter, Shelby Nanette Rice Collis, who passed away on January 15, 2020.

No services are planned. Please consider a donation in Floyd's memory to the Asheville Humane Society at www.ashevillehumane.org

Floyd’s life was marked by devotion to his country, love for his family, service to his church, and kindness to those around him. His memory will remain a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Anders Rice & Roper Funeral Home and Cremation Center is honored to serve Floyd's family.