2024 Hometown Hero Winner
Tom, a Fort Walton Beach native, received his Associate of Arts degree from Okaloosa-Walton Community College in 1980. A veteran and retired First Sergeant from the United States Army, Tom served with honor and distinction
for 39 years and was awarded numerous decorations. Following retirement, Tom followed his dream and opened the doors to the ever-popular Magnolia Grill in 1996. Tom was a long-time member of the Northwest Florida State College Foundation Board of Directors and he continues to share his passion for the college, veterans, and the arts daily. Kelly Humphrey, a past writer for The Daily News said it best, “if you live in Okaloosa County, your life’s been touched by Tom Rice.”
