Brevard - Paul Earl Rice (1943-2025), a follower of Jesus Christ went home to be with his Lord on Sunday August 10 while surrounded by loving family.

Paul was born and raised in Cashiers, NC. He married his school "best friend" Jean Holland. They moved to Brevard and started their life together. They have been married 64 years. He had a lengthy career with Ecusta Olin Manufacturing in the Electrical Maintenance Department. Paul was a longtime member of Turkey Creek Baptist  Church. Paul was an avid golfer as a member of Glen Cannon Country Club and more recently played Etowah Golf Club.

Paul was predeceased by his parents Warren and Annie Mae Rice and sister Margaret Franks. Paul is survived by his wife Jean who lovingly cared for him through years of disability and declining health. Surviving also son Paul, Jr., daughter Cheryl Ball, four grandchildren- Lindsey Myers (Chadd), Michaela Salim (Kahlil), Luca Tompkins-Rice, and Madison Ball. He also leaves behind two great granddaughters Lorelai and Olive Salim, and sister Janet Oliverson (Matthew), nephew Jonathan Newman and great nephew Jackson Newman.

Funeral services will be held on Monday August 18 at Turkey Creek Baptist Church. Visitation held at the church will begin at 1:00 and funeral service at 2:00 followed by graveside service at Blue Ridge Gardens of Memory at 994 Hendersonville Hwy in Pisgah Forest.

Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com .

Moody Connolly Funeral Home is caring for the family.