Arthur Pierson Rice

Arthur Pierson Rice ("Skip"), born September 21, 1953 in Orange, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2024, at the age of 70, surrounded by loved ones.
He studied at St. John's University, the School of Visual Arts in New York City and held a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Pratt Institute, which helped further his impressive career in art and drama. He enjoyed designing sets for musical theater and served as Set Director, Technical Director, and Production Designer for the Metropolitan Musical Theater and the Overlook Musical Theater, both in Summit, New Jersey. Skip continued to pursue his passion by teaching art, drama, and architecture at Delbarton High School in Morristown, New Jersey, from which he was a proud alum. Despite the severity of an auto accident suffered in 1978, Skip worked to overcome his physical limitations. Regardless of the difficulties he faced, he continued to devote his time to his love of art and music with the collaboration of dear, dear friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Jeanne and Ernest Rice Jr., and his brother, Randall Rice.
He is survived by his siblings, Ernest Rice III; Harry Rice (Tori); Miriam Barroso (Jorge); eight nieces and nephews and nine grand nieces and nephews.
We will miss Skip's gentle conversations, spontaneous singing, and delightful "Arthur-isms".
We will forever be grateful to Skip for reminding us of the joy of living in the moment.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Hospice Foundation of America (hospicefoundation.org).
Arrangements are under the direction of the Saul Colonial Home, 3795 Nottingham Way, Hamilton Square, NJ.