Lawrence Arlin "Gary" Rice

Lawrence Arlin “Gary” Rice, 77, of Asheville, NC, peacefully passed away at the Charles George VA Medical Center on Friday, June 12, 2026.

Lawrence was born in Buncombe County, NC, on October 30, 1948, to the late Willard and Julia Rice. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Guy Perry, JD Rice, and Paul Rice; and his sisters, Bonnie Dyer, Sherry Wheeler, and Willie Jean Perry.

Lawrence earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Western Carolina University. He proudly served in the United States Army for nine years during the Vietnam War and was a member of the Disabled American Veterans. Lawrence enjoyed religious studies, soccer, cars, computers, and technology.

He is survived by his children, Carissa Rice of Weaverville, NC and Joshua Rice (Stacie) of Weaverville, NC; his brother, David Rice (Robin), of Barnardsville, NC; his grandchildren, Josiah Rice and Julia Rice, both of Weaverville, NC; his cousin, Opal Harris; his sister-in-law, Dee Rice; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A visitation will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, June 29, 2026, at Penland Family Funeral Home, 125 South Avenue, Swannanoa, NC. A funeral service will immediately follow, officiated by Sonia Burleson. A private interment will take place following the service.

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