Dennis "Bud" Rice

Dennis “Bud” Rice, 91, of New Palestine, passed away December 27th, 2025. He was born April 7th,1934, in Hyden, Kentucky, to parents Mack and Martha Rice.

Bud grew up in Kentucky and moved to Indianapolis as a young man.

Always a very hard worker, Bud was a contractor and carpenter for many years.

Bud proudly served his country in the United States Navy.

Bud was a generous, loving gentleman. Growing up in Kentucky, Bud found his love for being outdoors in nature. He enjoyed visiting his childhood home, camping, and shooting. He was a skilled craftsman, using his talents in his career and woodworking. Bud took great pride in his garden each year. He had a soft spot for animals and children. Family was paramount for Bud, and he adored spending time with them as often as he could. He was a social man, catching up with his friends over coffee each morning. Bud will be remembered as a good-natured father figure who mentored and loved many people.

He is survived by his wife Elizabeth “Bunny” Rice; his children Tammy (The Late Tom) Edwards, Craig (Sarah) Rice, Jeff Rice Howell, and Robin (Don Colip) Watkins; grandchildren Tommy Spears, Andrew (Brandi) Cobb, Bailey Edwards, and Nicole (Gavin) Joret; several step children; eight great-grandchildren; several step grandchildren; and five great-great grandchildren; his sister Helen Finn; and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

Bud is preceded in death by his parents; his previous wife Marjorie; stepdaughter Sue Hubbard; three brothers and three sisters; and his son in law Tom Edwards.

Bud’s visitation will be Saturday, January 3rd, 2026, at Flanner Buchanan Washington Park East from 12-2pm. His funeral will begin at 2pm. His services will conclude with military honors at the funeral home.

To view his service virtually, please use this link. The service will be recorded and available to view for 90 days following his service.