Jefferson Edward Rice

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Jefferson E. Rice on April 7, 2026 at the young age of 55. Jeff died peacefully surrounded by family after a courageous 2 1/2 year battle with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer. 

Jeff ‘Jeppy' Rice was born on June 29, 1970. He is survived by his wife Karen, daughter Reagan, and son Jefferson. Jeff was the son of Ruth Zook Summers and the late Joseph Rice II.  Brother of Leslie McCullough (Charlie), Joseph Rice (Carolyn), Kimberly Clay (Ronnie) and Eric Rice (Diane). Brother-in-law of Douglas McKay and Richard McKay (Maren). Son-in-law of Susan McKay and the late Douglas McKay, also survived by  many family members and close friends.

Jeff was a 1988 graduate of Winston Churchill High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from Salisbury State University in 1992. He was a dedicated fraternity brother of Sigma Alpha Epsilon and past Eminent Archon of the Maryland Sigma Chapter. Jeff began his professional career in 1993 joining J.E. Rice Insurance Agency, Inc. the family business founded by his late father, Joseph Rice II. For more than 25 years as a principal, Jeff distinguished himself as a highly respected insurance professional. Jeff was known for his unwavering integrity, strong work ethic and deep sense of loyalty. He approached his work with a steadfast commitment to doing what was right for his clients. He built enduring relationships with both friends and clients, a testament to the trust and respect he cultivated throughout his life. He was proud of the firms’ success and reputation, ensuring the  legacy of his father’s vision.  

Jeff was a loving husband and father, cherished by his family. He was an avid mountain biker, golfer, member of Manor Country Club since 1988, proud member of the NRA and an animal lover with a special fondness for Boxer, his 'most handsome' Terrapin. He was also a sports fan, loving the Washington Redskins and Joe Gibbs Racing, however his greatest joy came from attending the numerous sporting events and activities of his children. Jeff will be deeply missed and long remembered for the joy he brought others. To his many friends, please raise a Crown Royal in his honor.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jeff's honor to Montgomery Hospice - https://montgomeryhospice.org

A private Service and Interment will be held on April 16, 2026.