John Thomas Rice

John Thomas Rice, age 43, passed away on March 12, 2026, in Salem, Oregon, after a life lived in his own unique and memorable way. He was born on July 2, 1982, in Panama City, Florida. Funeral arrangements will be held in Colquitt, Georgia, honoring John’s wish to be laid to rest near his grandparents at Colquitt City Cemetery. Visitation will take place from 2:00–3:00 p.m. EST at Colquitt Funeral Home on Friday, March 20, 2026, followed by a funeral service at 3:00 p.m. with Craig Tully officiating.

John was preceded in death by his father, Tommy Adrian Rice, and his grandparents, Willis Glen Tully and Emma Carolyn Tully.

He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Ann Tully Everett and Hayes Lewis Everett Jr.; his siblings, Adrian Rice and Leigh Everett; his step-siblings, Eric Everett, Evan Everett, and Jeana Skora; his daughter, Alyssa Sanchez; his niece, Kendall Rice; his aunts, Tammy Tully, Patti Corley, and Glenda Repasz; and his cousins, Ellen Criswell, Carolyn Hamlin, Rebecca Corley, Blake Corley, Seth Corley, Shelley Spooner, and Austin Spooner, along with many extended family members and friends who loved him deeply.

John was a true free spirit who moved through life at his own pace. He had a way of making every day interesting and every story worth telling—often filled with laughter. He smiled at strangers, brought humor wherever he went, and had a natural ability to lift the spirits of those around him. He was deeply compassionate and carried a heart full of love that he shared freely.

He had a special love for animals, especially his dog, Prince, and cherished his travels from coast to coast. John didn’t need much in this life to be content, but he carried big dreams and a vibrant, expressive spirit that left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

He will be deeply missed by his family, who always saw a bright future in him and cherished the light he brought into each day.

Flowers will be accepted, or donations may be made to Colquitt Funeral Home for funeral expenses, or to the Colquitt City Cemetery Fund.