Stuart Edward "Stu" Trice, 72, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, after facing many health challenges.

Born on February 1, 1954, Stu was preceded in death by his loving and devoted parents, Sarah Stuart Trice and Stephen Edward Trice; his father-in-law, Judge Walter N. Burnside Jr.; and his brother-in-law, Robert S. Stringer.

Stu is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Carol Jean Burnside Trice; his two loving sons, Nathaniel Beck "Nathan" Trice and Stephen William "Stevie" Trice; and his cherished sister, Carol Trice Stringer.

He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Anna Ruth Burnside; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Nancy Burnside Grotecloss and Gary Grotecloss; his brother- and sister-in-law, Albert and Christine Burnside; and his brother-in-law, Walter N. Burnside III.

His memory will be treasured by his nieces and nephews: Layne Stringer Spotts (Jeff), parents of Emma and Cody; Stephanie Stringer (Rocky Jenkins); Ashley Grotecloss; Justin Corbett; and Alex Burnside, along with many cousins and extended nieces and nephews who lovingly knew him simply as "Uncle Stu."

As a young man, Stu enjoyed a wonderful childhood surrounded by family and cousins, creating lifelong memories at the family's beach house in Indian Rocks Beach and at the family cabin on Lake Thomas in Land O' Lakes. Those special places remained close to his heart throughout his life.

Stu attended neighborhood schools in Tampa and graduated from H.B. Plant High School, where he formed lifelong friendships with classmates who proudly continued to refer to one another as "brothers" throughout the years.

Following in the footsteps of his mother, Sarah, Stu attended Florida State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree with majors in Geography, Social Science, and History. He was a devoted Florida State Seminoles fan, a passion he shared with his son Nathan. He especially admired Coach Bobby Bowden and the era that defined Seminole football. His lifelong devotion to Florida State was commemorated with one of the university's earliest engraved bricks bearing the words, "Always Loyal to FSU."

A consummate lover of nature and all living things, Stu possessed an insatiable curiosity about history, particularly the earliest inhabitants of Florida. Inspired as a child by his cousin, Dr. Robin Brown, he developed a lifelong passion for researching and collecting fossils and artifacts. His knowledge of Florida's natural and cultural history was extensive, earning him the friendship and respect of fellow collectors and enthusiasts across the state. Just as importantly, he inspired that same passion and appreciation in many others.

Stu's adventurous spirit and love of the outdoors—shared especially with his son Stevie—led to countless days spent surfing, canoeing, camping, fishing, diving, and exploring Florida's natural beauty. He and his family especially treasured frequent trips to Englewood and the Florida Keys with family and dear friends. To Stu, friends were family, and family were friends.

His professional career reflected his diverse interests and dedication to public service and industry. He began his career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers before serving with the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD), R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, and ultimately retiring from CSX Railroad.

Stu will be remembered as a husband, father, brother, uncle, and loyal friend whose love of learning, nature, adventure, and Florida State University touched many lives. He leaves behind countless memories that will continue to be shared by those who knew and loved him.

The family invites those who wish to honor Stu's memory to make a memorial donation to one of the causes that he cared deeply about: the Sierra Club of Florida, the Arbor Day Foundation, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, or another children's hospital or medical research organization of your choice.

The family would also like to extend special recognition and heartfelt appreciation to Louis Minardi, Mark Zorn, and Don Martin for their friendship and support.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.