Paul A. Rice – 77 – of Arkport, died Saturday morning (March 7, 2026) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, following a long illness.
Born on August 28, 1948, in Harmony, PA, to the late Arthur and Ethel Rice. Paul lived a life marked by quiet kindness, genuine thoughtfulness, and a deep appreciation for the simple things that make life rich.
Paul grew up in Harmony and was a graduate of Seneca Valley High School (class of 1966). He went on to attend the Culinary Institute of New York, completing his studies in 1969. That training became the foundation for one of his greatest joys in life as Paul loved cooking, baking, and, perhaps most of all, eating. Whether he was preparing a meal for those he cared about or savoring something delicious, food was always at the heart of how he showed love and brought people together.
He was employed as a chef & kitchen manager for Marriot Hotels, serving throughout the United States in several locations including Dallas, TX, San Jose, CA and Florida. More recently he served as kitchen manager at the former Friendly’s Restaurant in Hornell.
Having a tender heart for all living things, Paul was known for his love of plants and animals, including a beloved old horse that held a special place in his life. His gentle nature extended to everyone around him, and those who knew him understood that his kindness was never just a gesture but something deeply felt.
Paul was an active member of St. Mary’s Church in Canaseraga, NY, where his faith provided comfort and community throughout his years in Arkport. May he now rest peacefully in the arms of the Lord he faithfully served.
In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by his wife, Jane Rice who died August 19, 2024.
He is survived by his step-children, Dawn and Rusty Taylor; his sisters, Patricia Rice and Priscilla Bhame; his brother, Philip Rice; his niece & her husband, Alexis Tatro; his nephews, Ronald Bhame, Robert Bhame, Richard Bhame; as well as sister-in-law Susan Rice and many other friends and loved ones.
At Paul’s request there will be no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday at 11:00 AM at St. Mary’s Church in Canaseraga, NY. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Canaseraga, NY.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Paul’s family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to St. Mary’s Cemetery of Canaseraga, C/O St Patrick’s Family of Churches, 18 East Hughes St., PO Box 366, Belfast, NY 14711. Memorial forms will be available at St. Mary’s Church.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com
