Leland Marshall "Sam" Rice's Obituary
Leland Marshall Rice, lovingly known as “Sam,” was born on October 10, 1945, in Charleston, West Virginia, to Vivian Mae Kiser Rice and Charles Hubert Rice. On March 2, at the age of 80, Sam entered his heavenly home surrounded by the family who adored him. His departure leaves a space that can only be filled with the memories of his steadfast love, his gentle spirit, and the remarkable life he lived.
In 1989, Sam married the love of his life, Greta Smith—affectionately called “Darla Belle.” Together they built a life rich in devotion, laughter, and enduring partnership as longtime residents of Gainesville, Florida. Their love was the anchor of Sam’s world.
Sam is survived by his beloved wife, Greta Smith Rice; his children, who were the pride of his heart: son Phillip Marshall Rice (Jana) and grandchildren Tyler Rice and Jordan Bloemker (Jacob); daughter Anne Rice Smith (Mike) and grandson Morgan Smith; and daughter Melissa Rice, along with her cherished “grandfurbabies” Flash and Chief. He is also survived by his brothers Richard Rice (Becky) and Meredith Rice (Carol). He was preceded in death by his brother Charlie Rice.
A graduate of Morris Harvey College—now the University of Charleston, West Virginia—Sam earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and went on to retire from Metal Container Anheuser-Busch after more than 25 years of loyal service as a comptroller. His work ethic was impeccable, guided by integrity and an unwavering sense of responsibility.
Faith was the cornerstone of Sam’s life. He was a devoted member of Canvas Church in Alachua and was especially proud to be a 2023 graduate of the Men of Honor program. Those who knew him will remember him as a deeply loyal family man who loved without hesitation and gave without measure.
Sam carried with him the soul of the West Virginia mountains he grew up in. He was a jeans-and-flannel kind of man—humble, steady, and true. He found joy in the simple things: cheering on Gator football and softball, exploring his love of trains, savoring Buc-ee’s BBQ, and tending to his treasured clocks. He had a mind for puzzles—Sudoku, newspaper brainteasers, anything that kept him sharp—and he was an avid follower of the stock market, always curious and always learning.
A man of genuine character, Sam delighted in caring for others. He never missed a chance to send a birthday, anniversary, or holiday message to friends and family. He was reliable in every sense—faithful to his commitments, devoted to his “honey-do list,” and wonderfully thoughtful in the small, everyday ways that showed how much he cared.
Sam was a good man—quietly exceptional, profoundly loving, and deeply respected. His legacy lives on in the lives he shaped, the family he cherished, and the example of steady, sincere goodness he leaves behind.
He will be forever missed and forever remembered.
A celebration of life service will be held on Monday, March 9, 2026, at 10:00 am Canvas Church 15551 N.W. US Hwy 441 Alachua, Florida. Graveside Service to Follow at Forest Grove Cemetery 7950 NW 226th Street Alachua, FL 32615. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Men of Honor Program at Canvas Church by Mail: P.O. Box 219 Alachua, FL 32616 www.canvasgive.com click on the Men of Honor Tab
"Well done, good and faithful servant."
What’s your fondest memory of Leland?
What’s a lesson you learned from Leland?
Share a story where Leland's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Leland you’ll never forget.
How did Leland make you smile?