John "Jack" Joseph Rice's Obituary
John Joseph Rice passed away peacefully into eternity on Monday, July 8, 2024. John, affectionately known as “Jack” was born in St. Louis, Missouri, on June 27, 1942, to James and Alleen Rice.
Jack met the love of his life, Ruth (Ludwig) Rice, while working at the FBI. They were married on September 26, 1969, and shared 55 wonderful years together. To this union, Jack and Ruth were blessed with two sons: Jeffery and William. A proud veteran, Jack served honorably in the United States Army and was awarded a Purple Heart for his bravery and loyal service.
In 1978, Jack and Ruth moved from St. Louis to Broken Arrow, where Jack embarked on a successful career in metal sales in Oklahoma. Ask anyone that worked with him, if you wanted something done right… you gave it to Jack to handle. Known for his unwavering work ethic, Jack was the go-to person for any task that required precision.
Jack was an ardent supporter of the St. Louis Cardinals, showing unwavering loyalty whether they were winning or losing. It didn’t matter to him. The Cardinals were his team. Jack was a man of genuine warmth. He was supportive of his family and friends, had an amazing sense of humor and a heart that welcomed everyone. Jack truly never met a stranger; he could talk to absolutely anyone. He will be forever missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, James and Alleen Rice, grandson Parker Rice, and siblings: Dorothy (Jeannine) Young, Alleen “Pat” Rice, Lawrence “Larry” Rice, and James “Jim” Rice. He is survived by his loving family: his devoted wife, Ruth Rice; sons, Jeffrey Rice, and William “Bill” Rice; daughter-in-law, Allyson Rice; granddaughter, Jessica Gonzales; grandsons, Hayden Rice, Casey Rice, Jack Rice, and Hudson Rice; and great-grandson Romeo Gonzales. He also leaves to cherish his memory his nieces: Cheri Massa, Kathleen Gray, Debi Helbling, and nephew James “Jim” Rice.
Jack’s legacy of love, service, and friendship will forever be cherished by all who knew him.
A memorial service to honor the life of Jack will be held at 3:00 PM on Friday, August 9, 2024, at Floral Haven Funeral Home Chapel, located at 6500 S 129th E Ave, Broken Arrow, OK 74012, with Pastor Jim Keil officiating. The Army Honor Guard will be present to render Military Honors in remembrance of Jack and his service to his country.
Jack's service will be livestreamed for anyone unable to physically attend the service:
https://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/103514
Anyone wishing to send flowers may do so by ordering through our website or by calling Floral Designs by Floral Haven at (918) 459-1525. Any independent florists may deliver flowers directly to Floral Haven Funeral Home by 2:00 PM on Friday, August 9, 2024, in order for them to be set out and properly displayed for Jack’s service.
Arrangements entrusted to Floral Haven Funeral Home.
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