Cover photo for Mr. Joe David Rice's Obituary
Mr. Joe David Rice Profile Photo
1950 Mr. 2021

Mr. Joe David Rice

February 19, 1950 — November 25, 2021

Joe David Rice passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 25, 2021 surrounded by his family. Joe was born on Feb. 19, 1950 in Atoka, OK. He moved to Fort Meade in 1995, where he lived his life to the fullest.

He is preceded in death by his parents Uel Lee (Dub) and Sammi Lee Rice, his grandson Blake Kinler, and his faithful Buddy Kitty.

He is survived by his wife, the Love of his life, Lisa. His amazing children Jodi, her husband Jim, and his son, Jon. His stepchildren, Tony Price and wife Heather, and Crystal Hoecker and her husband Jay. As well as his loving brothers and sisters Jack and his wife Yvonne, Sandra and Vangie, and Nancy and her husband Johnnie.

He was also blessed with 9 grandkids: Josh, Zack, Aidan, Mackenzie, Kelcie, Brooklyn, Taylor, Layla, and Kaylee.

And lastly, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention his furbabies, Allie and Happy, who will miss their morning walks with him dearly.

Joe was a Vietnam Veteran who proudly served for two tours. He kept in touch with his Navy Squadron, the Sidewinders, which still hold reunions to this day. He and his best friend Bo were awarded the “Liberty Hounds” award at one of the last reunions. (This means they were the first ones off and the last ones on when it came to shore leave. They often had to have the MPs go and find them)

Joe was very active with The American Legion Post 3 in Bartow. He served on the E-Board of the Legion. He spent much of his week at the Post working on projects, building and fixing whatever needed attention. His passion however, was with the American Legion Riders, of which he was the Director. He was also a dual member of the Fraternal Order of the Masonic Lodge in both Louisiana and Fort Meade.

Joe loved to live, and that means you would find him on his Harley every chance he got. The Saturday before this unexpected illness took him, he rode almost 200 miles with his ALR group to Leesburg Bike Fest. This is how he would want everyone to remember him. Smiling, wind in his face, and ready for a good time.


He touched countless lives and always served as an example of what a great husband, father and friend. He would want us to not be sad, but grateful for the gifts of moments and memories he gave us.

Memorial services will be announced at a later date, and memorial contributions may be made in Joe's memory to: https://www.militaryveteranproject.org/22aday-movement.html

Hancock Funeral Home, Fort Meade, FL 863-285-8171
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Mr. Joe David Rice, please visit our flower store.

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