Gary E. Rice

Gary E. Rice, 72 passed away peacefully in his sleep September 17, 2022. He is predeceased by his parents George E. Rice and Irma Plew Rice. He is survived by his loving children Carrie (Keith) King, Ashley (Michael) Rielly and Greg (Kristen) Rice. His adoring grandchildren Kyla and Kelsey King, Jack, Ava and Liam Rielly, also his sister and brother-in-law Linda (Dick) Sleeper; special niece and nephew Amy Terboss and Rick Sleeper, several nieces, nephews and cousins. Gary graduated from Binghamton Central High School and Ferris State College in Michigan. From there he went to work for Tioga Co. Health Dept., started as an Environmental Sanitarian and he retired in the position of Public Health Director. His notable achievement in those years was the piloting and implementation of the recycling program that is used today. After 26 years he went onto ICON Development Solutions where he retired after 10 years and most recently was security for the horse gate at Tioga Downs (which was a job he loved). He was a loving father, grandfather, brother and uncle. Called “Ole Silver Tongue” in his youth, his charming and witty personality made him memorable to strangers or others who knew him well. He enjoyed spending time with family & friends, working in his garden growing tomatoes, sitting on his bench his son made him while watching his fountain, and listening to his Tina Turner music REALLY LOUD. Often you could find him at Tioga Downs playing a bit of poker or betting on the horses. He hit the final jackpot on a Saturday afternoon when God called his name to enter heaven's gate, where his mother Irma was waiting for him with open arms. Today he is pain free, and the chains of this world are broken. He is surrounded by love (and although sorely missed), we all look forward to seeing him again someday. We will continue to make him proud in the meantime. A Memorial Service to be held on October 22, 2022 at Noon at Vestal Hills Memorial Park Cemetery Chapel.  Any donations could be made in Gary’s name to the Oxford Veterans Home.

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