Ernest "Quad" Rice

Ernest “Quad” Rice, IV, 71, of Dyersburg, Tennessee, passed away on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at Regional One Health in Memphis. Born on April 22, 1953, he was the son of the late Ernest, III, and Robbie Jean Reynolds Rice. 

Quad was known for his fun-loving spirit. A dedicated entrepreneur, he proudly owned and operated Dirt Works of Tennessee, and was often found tinkering with his equipment. His depth of knowledge and willingness to share left a lasting impression on everyone he met, and he will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Quad faced life's challenges with remarkable resilience. He was preceded in death by his sister, Karen Rice, who passed away in 1963. After his mother became incapacitated from encephalitis when he was just 15, and the tragic loss of his father in a car accident at 16, he left school to take on the responsibility of the family farming operation. Despite these hardships, he returned to school, ultimately graduating from Middle Tennessee State University.

Throughout his life, Quad embraced a variety of passions. He paid his way through college by working as a photographer and painter. He later became a skilled welder, and the proud owner of Dyersburg’s first one-hour photo booth. His entrepreneurial spirit also led him to be involved with one of the first ethanol plants in West Tennessee, and he spent many fruitful years farming in both Mississippi and Tennessee.

Quad's love for politics was rooted in his rich family history; he often spoke proudly of his great-grandfather, Ernest Rice Sr., who served as Speaker of the House in 1905.

A member of First United Methodist Church, Quad’s faith was an integral part of his life. He is survived by his loving wife of 22 years, Tammy Tucker-Rice; his son, Ernest, V (Quinn), a senior at Dyersburg High School; his sister, Laurie Caudill; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation from 4:00 to 6:00 PM on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, in the Sanctuary of First United Methodist Church. A Celebration of Quad’s Life service will follow at 6:00 PM, officiated by Rev. Dr. Mary Beth Bernheisel.

Cremation services are entrusted to Curry Funeral Home. Quad’s legacy of love, resilience, and joy will continue to inspire all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Paws to Care and Dyersburg Humane Society.