Final Salute

John Daniel (Danny) Rice, 77, a resident of Indianapolis, passed away February 13, 2026. He was a beloved husband, father, son, grandfather and friend. He was born August 28, 1948 to Ralph and Margie (Ferrell) Rice. He was a (1966) graduate of Northwest High School and attended Indiana Barber School.

Danny was a barber for many years at Danny’s Barber Shop and a professional painter at Paul Hutton Painting before going on his own.

He volunteered fundraising for OCW (Operation Comfort Warriors) for 20+ years.

Danny was a veteran of the Navy (Seabees), proudly serving in the Vietnam War. He was an active member of American Legion, KND Wayne Post #64 for many years. He served throughout the years, the highest as Post Commander, and several committees. He also served as 11th District Commander and on other committees. He was fond of Indiana Veterans Home which was important to him. Each year he and veterans made yearly trips there delivering gifts and fruit pass outs to the veterans. He attended meetings in Washington, DC for Indiana veterans’ rights, discussing veterans’ needs with congressmen.

Danny is survived by his beloved wife Iva (Davis) Rice, his daughter Jennifer (Rice) Collier, and two grandsons, Jacob Collier and Derrick Collier. He was preceded in death by his brother John Wayne Rice, parents Margie McKinney and Ralph Rice and son-in-law Randy Collier.

Danny will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to OCW at Legion.org.

Funeral Services will be held 12:00 PM, Tuesday, February 24th at Stevens Mortuary, 5220 West 10th Street, Indianapolis, IN. Viewing from 10:00 AM until time of service. Chaplain Bradford Moulton will be officiating. Burial at Lincoln Memory Gardens, 6851 South Indianapolis, in Whitestown, IN.

A celebration of Life will also be held on Saturday, March 7th, at American Legion KND-Wayne Post #64, 601 South Holt Road, Indianapolis, Indiana. Hours 12p-3p.

Posted online on February 20, 2026

Published in The Indianapolis Star