Ira Gene Guice 1948-2026

Ira Gene Guice, 77, of Alba passed away peacefully at his home on April 7, 2026.

Ira was born on Aug. 20, 1948 in Memphis, Tenn. to Ira Lawrence Guice and Hallie Mae Reynolds. He faithfully served his country in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany during the Cold War era. Following his active-duty service, Ira continued his commitment in the Army Reserve for many years.

During this time, he met his future wife, Joyce Ann Barnett Guice. Together, they moved to East Texas in the early 1980s, where they made their home and raised two children, Kimberly Guice and Tim Guice.

Ira deeply loved his family and embraced the country life. He had a special passion for animals, especially his pet rabbits, which he raised and cared for with great devotion. In his leisure time, he enjoyed watching NASCAR races and was known as an excellent cook. He particularly loved oysters and often prepared oyster stew and a variety of Cajun dishes.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Hallie Mae; his wife, Joyce Guice; his sister, Shirley Guice; and his brothers, Alton Guice, Kenny Guice, and Rocky Guice.

Those left to cherish his memory include his daughter, Kimberly Guice of Alba; his son, Tim Guice of Alaska; his sisters, Pearl McGee and Tammie Pennington; his brother, Ricky Guice; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.