Beech Tree News Network

Maitland B. "Sonny" Rice Jr., age 85 of Logansport, KY, passed away peacefully at his residence in Logansport, KY, on Saturday, December 7, 2024. Born on Wednesday, July 5, 1939, in Owensboro, KY, Sonny was a man whose life was defined by dedication to his family, service to his country, and commitment to his faith.

Sonny was preceded in death by his parents, Maitland B. and Opal Mae Hammond Rice. He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion as the beloved husband of 62 years to the late Wanda Green Rice. Together, they raised a family that included their late son Timothy Rice, and Sonny's late siblings, his twin sister Ione Rice and Anna Merle Powell.

Sonny's memory will be treasured by his four children, Jeffrey Rice (Tammy) of Utica, KY, Lisa Rice of Logansport, KY, Darren Rice (Amy) of Logansport, KY, Stephen Rice (Stacy) of Logansport, KY and his daughter in law Vanda Rice of Owensboro, KY.  His life was further enriched by his 11 grandchildren: Taryn Norris (Andy) of Owensboro, KY, John Rice (Maura) of Owensboro, KY, Sabrina Durbin (Heath) of Elizabethtown, KY, Holly Sherry (Jack) of Lexington, KY, Maitland Rice of Louisville, KY, Vincent Rice(Anna) of Nashville, TN, Katherine Ogletree (Seth) of Moss, TN,and Sam, Parker, Kennedy, and Lawson Rice all of Logansport, KY. His five great-grandchildren, Mary Beth and Anna Durbin of Elizabethtown, KY, Lincoln Norris of Owensboro, KY, and Saylor and Scottie Sherry of Lexington, KY.

A proud graduate of Daviess County High School and the University of Kentucky, Sonny served his nation with honor as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army. His unwavering faith was evident in his role as a member and Deacon of Salem Missionary Baptist Church. Sonny's leadership extended into his professional life, where he was a member of Cassia Lodge #272, past president of Daviess and Butler County Farm Bureau, and a Soil Conservation Board member and State Officer, where his wisdom and selfless nature were greatly valued.

Sonny's interests were as rich and varied as his contributions to the community. He found joy in spending time with his family, building and playing mandolins, camping, fishing, or simply sharing stories. His love for farming was more than a profession; it was a passion that connected him to the earth and the cycles of life. Sonny's winters were spent in Florida, where he enjoyed the warmth and the company of his wife Wanda and many friends. Those who knew Sonny will remember him as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His wise counsel and selfless actions touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those he encountered.

Funeral services will be held at the Salem Missionary Baptist Church on Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at 2:00pm with Bro. Jim Gifford officiating. Burial will be in Salem Cemetery where military rights will be presented by the Ohio County AM VETS. Serving as pallbearers Parker, Lawson, Vincent, Sam, John and Maitland Rice. Visitation will be held on Monday, December 9, 2024 from 3:00pm - 7:00pm at the Jones Funeral Chapel and Tuesday 12:00pm until funeral time at 2:00pm at Salem Missionary Baptist Church. Memorial contributions may be made to Salem Cemetery Fund 107 Hunts Lake Road Morgantown, KY 42261. Please share any photos, memories, condolences or light a candle in memory of Sonny at www.jonesfuneralchapel.com. Jones Funeral Chapel is honored to be serving the family of Maitland B. "Sonny" Rice Jr.