Matthew D. Rice

Matthew D. Rice 

December 27, 1978 ~ July 22, 2026

Matthew passed away on Wednesday evening, July 22, 2026, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, surrounded by his family, after a courageous two-and-a-half-year battle with cancer. Throughout his journey, he remained remarkably strong, endlessly funny, and full of the magic that defined his life.

Matthew’s entrepreneurial spirit emerged early. While still in high school, he started a baking business out of his family’s home, an accomplishment that earned him a scholarship to Johnson & Wales University. He went on to become a master baker, honing his craft in some of the top restaurants in Asheville, Salt Lake City, St. Louis, Chicago, and Nashville. His extraordinary talent was recognized nationally when he won Food Network’s Chopped.

When the restaurant industry came to a halt during the COVID-19 pandemic, Matthew returned to his entrepreneurial roots. He began baking cookies from his pink-doored home in Nashville, Tennessee, bringing comfort, joy, and a little sweetness to people during an incredibly difficult time. His playful imagination, artistic creativity, and exceptional baking talent quickly earned him a devoted following, allowing him to fulfill his dream of opening his own cookie shop, Pink Door Cookies.

Outside the kitchen, Matthew embraced life with the same joy and creativity that made him such an incredible baker. He was a devoted fan of The Golden Girls, a lifelong lover of Tori Amos, a self-proclaimed Swiftie, and never passed up the chance to enjoy a good Hallmark movie. His quick wit, contagious laugh, and gift for making people feel seen and welcomed left an impression wherever he went. Matthew had a way of turning ordinary moments into lasting memories, and his warmth, humor, and authenticity will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

Matthew was preceded in death by his mother, Marcia Rice. He is survived by his longtime partner, Chris Castile; his father, Randy Rice; brother, Adam Rice and partner Sarah Marr; cousin, Mindy Ramsey; and a large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends across the country who will forever cherish his warmth, generosity, humor, and the joy he brought into their lives.

A private celebration of Matthew will be scheduled in the future.  In the meantime, if you would like to honor Matthew, eat a cookie and think positive vibes.

Arrangements in the care of Compassion Funeral & Cremation Services, 6949 Charlotte Pike, Suite 104  (615) 857-9955. We proudly remain locally owned & operated.