Darrell Rice - In Memory of a Great Man

Darrell Rice, first and foremost, was a father of a good family. He worked throughout his life displaying the highest of Christian principles and commitment for the benefit of those around him. He practiced those beliefs with his family and throughout his business career over the years.

This special leadership capacity, that few possess, Darrell enjoyed, has guided Darrell, his wife Barbara and their two sons, also involved in the wholesale millwork industry, through the thick and thin of their lives. Darrell never liked to draw attention to himself. He just jumped in, stayed with it, and got things done in a pleasant way.

Darrell’s dedication throughout his life is attested through the many “connections” Darrell made that turned out so positive for both he and his many friends and business associates. Sunday school teacher, elder, deacon at the Fountain City Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, TN, the Kingsport Convention and Visitors Bureau, and many more that could tell of his “generous heart”.

Darrell’s “convincing commitment” within his community has earned him many awards from the associations he had been involved in for many years. He was past chair of the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce, past president of AMD (NSDJA), past president of YMCW, past president of the Kingsport Kiwanis Club and for the past 16 years worked with a great group of people distributing gifts for the children along the annual Santa’s Train 110 mile journey from Kentucky to Tennessee.

Darrell will be most remembered for his rendition of the “turtle on the fence”. A quote attributed to Mark Twain, the story comes from Darrell’s view on life. According to Darrell, “whenever you see a turtle on a fence post, you know someone had to put him there because the turtle could not get there on his own.” Darrell always said throughout all his accomplishments, he did not get there alone – he had someone else to help him along the way.

“Among the many things that Ron Taylor and Darrell Rice had in common was their ability to encourage you and lift you up. Darrell loved the Lord and lived his own life in such a way that you could see God’s love shining through everything Darrell did. Just as Ron did, Darrell set a tremendous example of servant leadership, and he always deflected attention from his own success to give credit to others. Both of them made a huge difference for the better in people’s lives, and this award is a fitting tribute to Darrell Rice’s life of service.”
— Mike Owens, Woodware Systems

In February 2004, the Kingsport Convention and Visitors Bureau announced the implementation of the “Turtle on the Fence Post” Award in honor of longtime Kingsport tourism ambassador Darrell Rice. “Darrell always believed someone helped him along the way, but in reality Kingsport is the turtle, and Darrell helped put us on that fence post.” — Jenny Seguin, KCVB Executive Director

Darrell’s “contributions” to myself and my family started back in 1962 when he turned out to be my first, and in my mind, boss in the millwork industry. Darrell was a close and personal family friend for over 40 years. Darrell’s knowledge of our industry, its people, its direction and our history coupled through Christian principles was only part of his personal contribution to the millwork industry. I hope others will follow through with his “convincing commitment” for many years to come. — Tony Kostusik, Mid-States Millwork

Left to right: Tony & Judy Kostusik, Darrell Rice, Jack McIlwee, Brian & Shannon McIlwee

About the Award :: 2004 Recipients :: Ned Guilbeau :: Contributors :: PDF version