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BORN
1947
DIED
2024
FUNERAL HOME
Paul Rice Obituary
He was educated in Dalton schools and was a graduate of Westfield State College.
Mr. Rice was married to the former Nancy Ann Amerio. She predeceased him in 2016.
Paul worked for 29 years at Wood Bro's Music, where he taught music and also did so out of his own home.
He played in many bands in Berkshire County and New York State. He made his own fiddles, was an avid outdoorsman, who loved wind surfing and enjoyed wildlife.
Mr. Rice is survived by his daughter, Lauren A. Rice and boyfriend Jake Blondin of North Adams; a sister, Judith Bocknek of Andersonville, TN. Besides his wife Nancy Rice, he was predeceased by a brother, Arnie Rice.
A Celebration of Life will be held, Sunday, September 8, 2024 at 1 p.m. at the Peru Community Center, 3 E. Main Rd., Peru, MA. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his name to the Berkshire Music School or to the Berkshire Humane Society and mailed to Dery-Foley Funeral Home, 890 E. Main St., Dalton, MA 01226.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Paul Rice
Sponsored by The Berkshire Eagle.
Pete White
August 29, 2025
Still think of our history. and it was all good.
Patrick James Murphy Gray sr., jr
August 29, 2025
Our most wonderful friend and fiddle player for our j p murphy band. We were heartstruck when we heard of Paul's passing. He was such a wonderful person and musician. We are so sorry for his family and friemds and many fans. God Bless you Paul. Patrick Gray Sr., and junior, felix and the band. You have left a heartfelt bond, tha can never be replaced. "Dear Lord please see that Paul continues playing in the band in the land that knows no parting". We love you and miss you and Thank you, Paul Rice.
jpmurphy band, Patrick Gray
November 12, 2024
God bless our friend and fiddle player, jpmurphy Band
Patrick J. Gray
September 11, 2024
So sorry to hear of our very good friend's passing. Paul was a wonderful person a terrific fiddle player, who enhanced our band many times. We the JP Murphy band will miss him so very much. If anyone wishes to see or hear Paul performing with us about 20 years ago in Pittsfield Center video. Go to youtube, JP Murphy Band Pittsfield celebration. God bless our dear friend. Do a couple jigs and reels when you get inside Heaven's doors. Patrick Sr, Patrick jr, Connie and all. Prayers to Paul and his family, our deepest sympathy.
Peter White
September 10, 2024
Paul was a very good friend for many years. His passing leaves a hole in my life for sure.
Noah Witek
September 8, 2024
Rest in Peace, Paul, a genuinely talented, wise, kind person, teacher, mentor, and friend. Rest easy
Bob Yarmey
September 8, 2024
As an aspiring teen musician in the 60´s, I often ordered music scores through Wood brothers. Paul was ALWAYS very friendly, helpful and encouraging. He was also a fine talented musician. Many years have gone by and our paths never crossed thereafter. However, the memory of this kind, talented and very likable gentleman persist. RIP as you make music with the angels Paul.
- Bob Yarmey
Rose Marie Healey-Picard
September 7, 2024
i'm sad to hear of Paul's passing. My Husband and I heard him at the old Home Club in Hinsdale. That was decades ago.
He was a great fiddle player.
Now he will join all the great Fiddler's in his Heavenly Reward.
Bob Thistle
September 6, 2024
Paul taught me how to fingerpick, encouraged me play my music in front of people and accompanied me many times when I did so. He was an incredible musician and kind and caring person. He played along side me at a memorial for my Dad three years ago and his beautiful violin playing touched all of our hearts that day. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. I´m so thankful for the impact he made on my life.
Joe Gomes
September 6, 2024
So many of my musician friends have passed, I'm sure there's a helluva jam session going on that I'm missing. Rest in peace, Paul, it's been a long, interesting ride. My condolences to the family.
Rick Marquis
September 5, 2024
One of the nicest guys and finest musicians. I never got a chance to make music with him. Imissed out on a gig one night. The heavens are full of sweet music!
Donna Merletto
September 5, 2024
Paul was such a kind soul and an incredibly talented musician. As sad as his passing is for many who knew him, I hope his family and friends will take solace in knowing that he is in the arms of the angels now.
Brian Killion
September 5, 2024
I am so sorry to learn of Paul's passing. He was such a gentle soul and an integral part of the Berkshire music scene. He will be remembered and missed by many. Please, keep him in your hearts with the music.
michael w wheeler
September 5, 2024
Sorry for your loss
Marty and Jeannie Plankey
September 5, 2024
I was saddened to hear of Paul's passing. I'm a frequent visitor to Wood Brothers Music, and Paul was the 'go to' guy if I ever had a question or needed a recommendation for tweaking a guitar or other instrument. All the folks there are very helpful, but Paul had a wealth of knowledge and talent that will be missed. Our sincere condolences to his family and coworkers. Rest in Peace, Paul.
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