Harry D. Rice, Sr., of Hunter Creek Road in Marshall, NC, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2024, at the Elderberry Health Care facility. His family was at his bedside. He was 87 and a lifelong resident of Madison County.

A proud veteran, Harry served in the U.S. Marine Corps before dedicating his life to farming, where he raised tobacco, tomatoes, and Charolais beef cattle. He was also a beekeeper, a gardener, and a storyteller.

Harry loved Madison County and Marshall, in particular. Several years ago, he gave the town of Marshall permission to dig two wells on his property to provide the town with drinking water. Those wells continue to operate to this day.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Carolyn, and their four children: Chuck, Linda, Jon, and Harry Jr. Harry was also a cherished grandfather to nine grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Gladys Wilson, of Colorado.

He was preceded in death by his parents J. Winston Rice and Christine Runnion Rice, sisters Jane Talley and Gwendolyn Wisecarver and a brother John Winston Rice, Jr.

The family has entrusted Blue Ridge Funeral and Cremation Service of Mars Hill with the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, Harry requested that any donations be made to a

favorite charity.

He will be remembered as a dedicated family man, a proud veteran, a skilled farmer, and a generous community member. His legacy will continue to live on through the wells that serve Marshall and the memories shared by his loved ones.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.blueridgefuneralservice.org