Paul Michael Rice, Jr.

Paul Michael Rice, Jr., age 54 of Morristown, TN died unexpectedly in his sleep at his home on Friday, May 8, 2026.

Born on June 28, 1971, in Baltimore, MD, Paul dedicated his life to the service of others. He was a lifelong learner, earning his A.S.N. from Walters State (2008), a B.S.N. from King College (2010), and his M.S.N. from Carson-Newman University in 2017. As a Family Nurse Practitioner, Paul served his community at Jefferson Family Practice, Team Health, and First Love on Main. He had worked as a Registered Nurse most notably at Amedisys Hospice and MHHS. Paul took much joy in serving his patients and their family with great compassion, kindness, and respect.

In 2004, Paul married his beloved wife, Michelle. Together, they built a legacy of community service, working side-by-side in hospice care and interdisciplinary community health. Their shared commitment to others extended to their personal lives through their dedication to foster care.

In 2022, Paul and Michelle were blessed with the honor of parenting their precious son, Melik. Paul’s happiest years were the four he spent as a father; he took immense joy and pride in Melik, who was truly the light of his life.

Paul is survived by his devoted wife of 22 years, Michelle Rice; his son, Melik Rice; his mother and stepfather, Deborah and Roy Robertson; his sister, Dana Rice; his stepmother, Christine Rice; and chosen family: Keith and Michelle Vannoy and their family; as well as Amanda Marsh and family.

He was preceded in death by his father, Paul Rice, Sr.; and his grandparents, John and Carmela Rice; along with a host of family and close friends.

His memory will be cherished by numerous friends, extended family, colleagues, and patients. Services will be held at Stetzer-Bales Funeral Home in Morristown, TN, on Sunday, May 24, 2026. The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 6:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Paul’s son, Melik A. Rice’s college fund at Edward Jones (1404 S. Sizer Ave., Suite E., Jefferson City, TN  37760).

Arrangements by Stetzer-Bales Funeral Home.

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