Melvin "Mel" Donald Guice

Melvin Donald Guice, lovingly known as “Mel,” was born on July 22, 1947, to Robert Guice and Hazel Poole Guice in Doyline, Louisiana, and passed away on Monday, May 5, 2025, in Shreveport, Louisiana.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Hazel Guice; father, Robert “Bob” Guice, and brother Mike Guice.

Mel is survived by his wife of 37 years, Rhonda; sister, Yvonne Pigott; daughter, Amy Guice Bartley, and stepdaughter, Mia Sikes, whom he raised since she was a little girl. He was also “Papa” to Taylor Reed and Kaylen Ardoin, whom he raised not just as granddaughters, but more like daughters. He is also survived by grandson-in-law, Brandon Reed, and five great-grandchildren who were his absolute pride and joy: Bentley, 14, Gracelyn, 12, Paisleigh, 7, Everett, 5, and Remi, 3. He also leaves behind several cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends whom he adored.

Mel graduated from Doyline High School, where he played basketball and worked as a lifeguard in his younger years. He retired from Riley Beaird and General Motors, and after retirement, he enjoyed picking up and delivering cars for Morgan GMC.

He loved cooking for his family, especially grilling, and could often be found piddling with projects around the house, telling jokes, watching old TV, and drinking his coffee while reading the newspaper every morning. His great-grandbabies were the light of his life, and he took great pride in everything they did.

Anyone who met Mel loved him instantly. He had a huge heart, a sharp, sarcastic wit, and a stubborn streak that matched his strength. He loved deeply, and he will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.

Honoring Mel as pallbearers will be Brandon Reed, Bentley Reed, Duke Rhodes, Matthew Thrift, Mark Thrift, Alan Linn, Brian Bass, and Michael Guice. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Chris Carter and Randy Wagg.