John- Rice Collins French

It is with heavy hearts we share that John-Rice Collins French, from Cherry Lake, Fla., passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at the age of 43. John-Rice was born in Valdosta, Ga., on July 24, 1982, to Michael E. and Sharon Bland French. He enjoyed his youth growing up in the Cherry Lake area with his brothers, Josh and Jeremy. John-Rice loved being outside. He liked to go hunting, but his favorite pastime was to go fishing. John-Rice loved everything about fishing. He would go fishing anytime and anyplace, whenever he had the opportunity. After graduating from Madison County High School, he began to study to be a certified electrician. He earned the highest level you are able to achieve in that field and became a Journeyman Electrician. For several years, John-Rice lived in Sarasota, Fla., before he decided to return home to Cherry Lake two years ago. John-Rice was known by many people for his skills to be able to repair anything. He had a business known as Frenchys Handyman Services. John-Rice is survived by his three beautiful children: Haylie-Rice, Atlas and his stepson, Slade. He always found so much joy and happiness in his children. He was very proud of each of them and loved them dearly. They were truly the light of his life. John-Rice is also survived by his beloved mother, Sharon French and brothers, Josh and Jeremy (Missy). He had a very close and special relationship with his nieces and nephew, Addison, Amos and Carson French. They always kept him entertained and he loved spending time with them. John-Rice was proceeded in death by his father, Michael E. French. John-Rice always had a smile on his face and he never met a stranger. If John-Rice was your friend, you had a friend for life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will live on by those he touched. A celebration of Life service will take place on Friday, April 17, at 11 a.m., at King’s Mill Cabin, located at 288 NW Whispering Pines Loop, in Madison, Fla. As we gather to celebrate the life of John-Rice and because we will be outside, the family has asked that everyone dress casually and comfortably just as John-Rice would prefer. In lieu of flowers, please consider giving to the outdoor education program for youth by donating to the Fish and Wildlife Foundation of Florida, P.O. Box 11010, Tallahassee, Fla. 32302. You can share memories and condolences at beggsfuneral.com or by calling (850) 973-2258.

John- Rice Collins French

July 24, 1982 - April 2, 2026