Thomas John Rice, Sr. "Tom" passed away on Tuesday, September 26, 2023 in Scottsdale, Arizona. He was born on April 16, 1941 to Christina and Elmer Rice, Sr. in Detroit, Michigan, the youngest of three boys. He graduated from Cooley High School and entered the Army reserves in 1959. Following the Army reserves, Tom moved to Livonia and began his employment as an Order Writer for Mulligan Lincoln Mercury in Detroit eventually becoming their Service Manager. He spent the majority of his 30-year career as a Service Manager for McDonald Ford in Northville and a Body Shop Repair Manager for McDonald Ford in Detroit.
Tom enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Many summer weekends were spent at Cass Lake while he lived in Michigan. Two of his favorite annual traditions were attending the Thanksgiving Day parade, which always included a stop for a Coney dog or two, and making homemade Irish Cream. Both are traditions his children and grandchildren have continued.
Tom loved doing projects around his home, both indoor and outdoor, which increased exponentially when he retired. Although there wasn't a lawn to attend to when he moved to Arizona in 1991, he enjoyed being able to care for his plants year-round. Tom was always willing to assist others with their projects too and was sought out by many in his Sun City neighborhood for his painting expertise.
Tom had a soft spot for dogs and could often be caught feeding them scraps from the table. Tom will be missed by all who knew him, including his most recent rescue dog Mimi.
Tom is survived by his wife of 15 years Mary Ann; his children from his first wife Beverly Rice: Michael (Lisa) Rice, Thomas (Laura) Rice, Jr. and Chantelle (Scott) Bowser; Lucille Rice's children: Mark Roy, Deborah (Scott) Gilbert and Suzanne (Maxine) Roy; his grandchildren; his sister-in-law Patricia; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. He was predeceased by his parents; his brothers Elmer Rice, Jr. "Bud" and David Rice; his wife of 24 years Lucille Rice; and his grandson Andrew.
Memorial Service 10 am Saturday, November 25, 2023 at St. James Catholic Church 46325 Ten Mile Rd. Novi, MI 48374 with visitation at 9:30 am at church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be directed to the Michigan Humane Society.