Michael Eugene "Mike" Rice

Michael Eugene “Big Mike” Rice entered eternal rest on Friday, July 10, 2026, surrounded by his beloved daughter. Born on December 30, 1961, he was a native of the Lukesville Community in Union, South Carolina, and was the son of the late Lucius Marion Rice, Sr., and the late Evelyn Dawkins Rice.

Michael was a proud 1980 graduate of Union High School. He continued his education at the University of South Carolina Union and Spartanburg Community College. A dedicated and hardworking man, Michael began working at Buffalo Mill at the age of 16 and later became an employee of Timken (formerly Torrington), where he remained until his health declined.

Michael was kindhearted, humorous, and hardworking. Above all, he demonstrated an unwavering love and devotion to his daughter, granddaughter, family, and friends. He found great joy in singing with the church choir, and his favorite song was Fully Committed. During his illness, Michael remained steadfast in his faith, boldly expressing his commitment to God. His life became a testimony of God's sustaining grace, as He carried him through every trial until the very end. Through it all, Michael never complained about his illness, choosing instead to trust God with quiet strength and dignity.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories his loving daughter, Braedyn Michaela Rice, and his beloved granddaughter, Riley Newell Rice, both of the home; three sisters, Patricia (Henry) Johnson of Spartanburg, South Carolina, Linda S. Rice and Gloria Rice, both of Union, South Carolina; one brother, Lucius M. (Geraldine) Rice, Jr. of Jonesville, South Carolina; one niece, Tyrhonda (Kenny) Holmes; four nephews, Courtney M. Rice, Lucius M. Rice III, Jerome Rice, and Torrey (Cheryl) Johnson; and a host of loving cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Though Michael's earthly journey has ended, his legacy of faith, love, kindness, and quiet strength will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Community Mortuary Inc. 361 Meansville Road, Union, SC.