SFC Steven Rice (USA RET), age 45, of Baxley, GA, passed away Monday, March 4, 2024 at Memorial Health University Medical Center in Savannah, GA.

Born in June 1978 in Duluth, GA, he was a son of Carolyn Garrett Rice and the late Paul Rice.

Steven retired after 22 years as a Sergeant First Class in the United States Army where he served as an infantryman, seeing combat in numerous countries including Bosnia, Iraq, Afghanistan, and others.  His actions earned him numerous citations and awards, to include two Bronze Stars.  Following his retirement, Steven became a K9 trainer and handler, working detection K9s to training service dogs.  He enjoyed time with his K9s.  From motorcycles to cooking, to all things outdoors, Steven stayed active and truly enjoyed life with those he loved.

He is survived by his mother, Carolyn Rice; sons, Ayden Rice and Garrett Rice; brother, Bryan Rice; sister, Jennifer Thomas; and a large extended family.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his grandparents.

The family will receive friends at the mortuary from 12 noon – 1:30 pm on Friday March 8, 2024.

Graveside services will be held at two o'clock, Friday, March 8, 2024 at Roselane Cemetery.

Burial will follow.  Military honors will be provided by the United States Army.

The United States Army will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Warriors Heart, 756 Purple Sage Road, Bandera, TX  78003.

Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers and sign the online guestbook at www.whitlockmortuary.net

Whitlock Mortuary, Funerals and Cremations is honored to be serving the family of SFC Steven Rice (USA RET).