David Hay Rice

David was born on July 4, 1945, in Brownsville, TN to the late Harry and Nadine Rice. David graduated from Jackson High School. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Memphis State University, his master’s degree from the University of Mississippi, and his Ph.D. from Belhaven University.

He married Judy Vinson on April 28, 1973, and they moved to Memphis, TN before settling in Southaven, MS where they raised their family and lived for thirty years. They lived in Olive Branch, MS for the last twenty years.

David was a businessman for more than forty years before shifting gears and becoming a teacher at Lewisburg Middle School. It was a career change that brought him much joy. Over the course of his life, he was a Sunday School teacher, a member of the Southaven Planning Commission, a Rotarian, a pilot, a drummer, a talented carpenter, and avid gardener.

David is survived by his wife, Judy; children Melody and Marc Kelly and Chris Rice; his grandchildren Jack Kelly (Gabi), Matt Kelly (Leela), Isabella, Olivia, Liam, and Leland Rice.

He was an adored husband, father, and Gaggy to his family as well as a beloved teacher and friend to so many. He will be missed forever on this side of heaven.

The family will receive friends for a time of visitation at DeSoto Hill Baptist Church on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 5-7 pm. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, March 26, 2026, also at DeSoto Hills Baptist. Burial will be at Malesus Ebenezer Cemetery in Medon, TN.