Bobby Joe Rice, 94, peacefully entered the arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday morning, December 7, 2025, at his home in Longview, Texas. He was born on June 6, 1931 in Sasakwa, Oklahoma, to C.L. and Elsie Rice, seventh of their nine children.

Although Bobby was born in Oklahoma, he got to Texas as soon as he could, moving to Longview at 3 months of age. He was a proud alumnus of Spring Hill High School.  A life-long patriot, he served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, attaining the rank of Sergeant. He celebrated every Veterans Day with his children and grandchildren, honoring his service as well as the service of other veterans.

Upon his return home from the war, Bobby attended East Texas Baptist College in Marshall, Texas, where he met the love of his life and wife of 67 years, Ernestine Thompson Rice. Together, they raised five children.

Bobby graduated from East Texas State University in Commerce, Texas and began a career as a design draftsman, first at Trailmobile in Longview and then at Thiokol in Karnack, where he retired. He had an active farm in Karnack, providing food for his family, and most notably a much-loved Christmas tree farm, Hilltop Farm. The entire family participated and made many happy memories among the Christmas trees.

Bobby was a dedicated Christian, bringing up his family in the love of Jesus. He loved serving as a deacon, both at Karnack Baptist Church and Central Baptist Church in Marshall, and was honored to be Deacon Emeritus at Spring Hill First Baptist Church in Longview. Another of his cherished ministries for more than twenty years was at Reunion Inn Assisted Living in Marshall, where he played the harmonica and led the music while Ernestine played the piano.

Bobby is survived by his wife Ernestine and children Mary Hagens (Tim), Carol Smith (Philip), Robin Rice (Angel), Sandi Mulkey (Steve), and Dana Rice, nine grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.  He is also survived by one sister, Carmon Rike, as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

The family would like to honor "adopted" children Frances Graham and children, Amy Barrett and children, and Luie and Liz Rodriguez, along with Lifecare Hospice Services and caregivers Laura Wilson and Tumeka West.

Visitation will be Wednesday, December 10th from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Downs Funeral Home in Marshall with funeral services, also at Downs, at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 11th. Interment follows immediately at Pope City Baptist Church.

Memorial donations may be made to Spring Hill First Baptist Church, St. Jude's Children's Hospital, or the East Texas Alzheimer's Alliance.