Mrs. Theresa A. “Tessie” Rice, age 69, Jonesborough, passed away Friday, July 25, 2025, at her residence with her family by her side.
Tessie was born March 22, 1956, in El Dorado, Arkansas, to the late Wesley “Gene” & Bertha Rinke Dison. She is preceded in death by a sister, Joan Elaine Dison.
She was of the Catholic faith.
Tessie was known for her infectious smiles, witty sense of humor, and love for her grandchildren. She touched the lives of everyone she met, always making them feel loved.
She spent most of her time working with her husband, Fred, and attending any events her grandchildren were involved in. Her two granddaughters were her greatest joy. She also loved traveling with her family, camping, canning, visiting her family in Arkansas, tending to her beautiful flowers, caring for her chickens, and sitting on the front porch sipping coffee with Paw (Fred).
She taught us to enjoy the simple things in life, the importance of laughter and to never pay full price on anything. She believed that there was no place where comfortable pants weren’t acceptable. Tessie loved her family more than anything and was truly special to us. We will miss her so much.
Survivors include her husband, Freddy Rice, Jonesborough; children, Adam Rice (Kristina) Jonesborough & Tonya Arnold (Alex Hubbard) Johnson City; granddaughter, Laykin Rice and Isabella Rice; brothers, Mark Dison (Beth), Larry Dison (Krista) and Billy Dison; and several nephews and nieces.
The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 pm Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 7:00 PM with Rev. Mike Sluder officiating.
Graveside services will be held at 10:00 AM, Thursday, July 31, 2025, at Washington County Memory Gardens.
Pallbearers will be family and friends.
07/30/2025
Linda Greer Malone
Freddy and family, I am thinking of you and pray you feel the presents of our LORD leading and guiding the way through these times of sorrow. Linda Malone
07/30/2025
Debbie Broyles Davenport
To Freddy, Adam, and Tonya my sincere condolences for the loss of a kind and loving friend. I will always remember Theresa as our secretary at Ernest Winters Assoc. Having her there was such a joy to all of us. May God give each of you the peace that passes all understanding during this difficult time. This is not saying goodbye but we will see you again.
The photo in her obituary says it all! Tessie was a bright and loving lady who lightened the load for many of us. She was always smiling and cheery when she met those at her work in a physician's practice and carried the same with her wherever she went. She and Fred raised some great children and spread love and smiles wherever she went. Our world will be a little colder and sadder without her. Rest in peace sweet lady. Warm wishes and sincere condolences to Fred, Tonya, Adam and all the family.
Freddie so sorry for you and your family loss , may God bless you all, Roger
The Little Family sends to Fred Rice and Teresa Rice families our deepest condolences and love at this time of need.
Fred so very sorry for your and your families loss. My God Bless and keep you and your family during this difficult time.
Roger
07/29/2025
Claude & Cindy Terry
Our hearts ache, Teresa was a joy. Fred, you and the family are in our prayers, God's comfort and strength be upon you. So many fond memories....Claude and Cindy Terry
My condolences to Freddie and the family. Theresa was a wonderful lady.
Tessie wasn't just a cousin, she was a dear friend. We didn't get to visit as much as we wanted to because of distance, but when we did get together it was like we never parted. I pray that her family and friends are comforted at this time of sorrow. She is resting peacefully in the arms of Jesus.
