Garrison Robert Rice Jr.  Age 70 | Stuart, Florida

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Garrison Robert Rice Jr., known to most simply as Gary, who passed away peacefully on December 1, 2024, in Stuart, Florida. He was 70 years old.

Born in Summit, New Jersey, Gary was the first child of Garrison Rice and Janet Wood Rice. He attended Newark Academy and graduated from Summit High School in the Class of 1972, later earning his degree from Hartwick College.

Gary’s adventurous spirit led him west, where he explored Colorado, Wyoming, and other states, eventually working briefly in the Texas oil industry. He later returned to New Jersey, settling in Hoboken and working for H.C. Kranichfeld, managing major projects across New York City.

Fate introduced Gary to the love of his life, Joanne Davis, on a blind date in Saratoga Springs in 1981. They were married ten months later on May 15, 1982 and built a beautiful life together. They first settled in Fair Haven, NJ, where they were overjoyed to welcome their two daughters—Kathryn in 1989 and Abigail in 1991.

A dedicated volunteer and community member, Gary served as a Fair Haven volunteer fireman, was active in the Chefs Association, and enthusiastically participated in fundraisers and men's breakfasts at the Island Heights Methodist Church. The family thrived for 20 years in Island Heights, where Gary was a member of both the Toms River Country Club and the Toms River Yacht Club. He continued his career with Hometown Dairy and later became the proud owner of Fastbreak Restaurant, before retiring in Stuart, Florida, in 2012.

Gary was a man of many passions: he was an avid golfer (with not one, but two holes-in-one!), a skilled skier, a tennis player, and a pool shark. He loved music, great food, and making friends wherever he went—often striking up a conversation at a gas station and turning it into a lifelong connection. His zest for life and love for nature were infectious, and he brought joy and warmth to everyone around him.

Gary is survived by wife Joanne Rice, oldest daughter Kathryn Rice and her daughters/ his grand daughters Madeline , and Palmer of Stuart FL

His youngest daughter Abigail Rice of Stuart FL

His loving Sister Elizabeth Wilson her husband Scott Wilson of Dorset Vt and

Nieces Erin, Nicole Emily, Janet &Sara

Nephews: Jason, Ben, Larry, Chad & Matthew 

Sister in laws : Nancy Lorenzo of Beachwood , Patty Belluscio of Port St Lucie, Fl & Barbara Davis of Berlin, 

Many loving and fun cousins!!!

Gary leaves a lasting legacy of kindness, curiosity, and connection. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Please join us in celebrating Gary’s life on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Island Heights Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First United Methodist Church of Island Heights in Gary’s memory.

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