Neil Rice

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Neil E. Rice, aged 90, who departed this life on March 13, 2026 in Damariscotta, ME. Born on April 16, 1935 in Boston, MA, Neil was the devoted father of Kenneth Rice of Sharon, MA, James Rice of Birmingham, MI, beloved husband of the late Harriet J. Rice of nearly fifty years, loving and devoted partner of Ann Baldwin of twenty years of Walpole ME, and brother of Stephen Rice of Westwood, MA.
He passed away peacefully surrounded by the memories and people who meant the most to him. He lived a life defined by quiet strength, steady character, and a deep commitment to his family. Those who knew him will remember a man whose presence was reassuring, whose advice was thoughtful, and whose loyalty never wavered.
Born into a close-knit family, he grew up learning the values that would guide him throughout his life: hard work, humility, and a sense of responsibility to the people around him. These values shaped the man he became and the example he set for those who followed him. Whether through his work, his friendships, or the way he carried himself day to day, he demonstrated that integrity and perseverance were more than words; they were habits of life.
Neil carried on his father’s insurance legacy in 1971 as President and CEO of Joseph J. Rice Ltd., Inc., a longstanding, successful Boston-based specialty wholesale insurance brokerage for many decades until his retirement. Like his father, Joseph Rice, his approach to the business was entrepreneurial and ahead of its time, which helped enable him to earn the respect and trust of many local and national insurance professionals.
Outside the office, Neil was an avid boater and fisherman and spent his summers at his home on Cape Cod with friends and family busily cruising the many fishing spots and inlets and coves throughout Nantucket Sound. Also, as a young father, he graciously volunteered his time to coach youth sports, both in baseball and in hockey for his sons and for so many others.
While he may no longer be physically present, Neil’s influence of his life – his strength, kindness, and quiet wisdom – will remain a guiding force for years to come. His family and friends will remember him not only for the life he lived but for the love, stability, and example he provided. His legacy is one of devotion to family, integrity in all things, and a life lived with dignity and purpose.
In addition to his sons, his partner, and brother, Neil is survived by his grandchildren: Adam Rice, Pamela Rice, and Samuel Rice and three other grandchildren. He is also remembered by his daughters-in-law, Linda Rice and Alecia Rice.
A funeral service for Neil will be held at 1:00PM, on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at the chapel of Sharon Memorial Park in Sharon, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust, PO Box 333, Damariscotta, ME 04543.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main Street, Damariscotta, ME 04543. Condolences, and messages for his family, may be expressed by visiting: www.StrongHancock.com.