Alan Bryan Rice

It is with profound sadness and deep appreciation for a life fully lived that we announce the passing of Alan Bryan Rice, beloved husband, devoted father, mischievous Papa, and cherished friend who left this world in the arms of his loving wife on January 31, 2025 at Greenville Memorial Hospital, at the age of 74. 

Born on March 10, 1950, in Vallejo, CA, to the late Bryan and Francis Rice, Alan was a man of faith, intelligence, and immense love. Alan grew up in Buncombe County, NC, graduated from North Buncombe High School in 1968 and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Mars Hill College in 1972.

Alan was the cherished husband of Wanda Coates Rice and they enjoyed a loving and beautiful life together for 53 years. He was a caring, and affectionate father to Allana Rice Burke and Jordan Bryn Rice and loved his son-in-law Dave Burke. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Caroline Grey Burke, Harry Davis Burke II, Ernest William Rice, and Athena Bryn Rice, who will miss their Papa’s warm hugs and infinite wisdom.

He shared an unwavering bond with his brothers, David William Rice and Gary Stephen Rice and wife Donna alongside his brother-in-law, Tom Coates and wife Lynda.

A holder of a Bachelor of Arts from Mars Hill College, Alan proudly ran his own business, Rice Jewelers, where he loved creating custom jewelry for others.

Alan had a profound appreciation for gardening, travel, art, and history, enriching his life and those around him with beauty and knowledge. A man of deep Christian faith, Alan lived his life as a testament to the values he held dear.

His departure is felt deeply by those who knew him, yet they take solace in the undying impressions he left on their lives – a true embodiment of a loving, intelligent, and faith-filled soul. 

In Lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to World Vision. 

World Vision works to end extreme poverty worldwide. www.worldvision.org/donate