Boyd D. Rice, Sr., 70, of Chouteau, Oklahoma, after a long illness went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 14, 2024. He was born on August 12, 1953, in Pryor, Oklahoma, to Ray and Virginia Rice. Boyd was baptized at the age of 12 at Blue Bill Point and worshipped at Exciting Southeast Baptist Church in Pryor, Oklahoma.

Boyd had a rich and fulfilling life surrounded by his loved ones. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Connie Castillo Rice, his son Boyd Rice Jr. and Ellen of Greenfield, Missouri, his daughter Brandalyn and Paul Telemchuk of Inola, Oklahoma, his brother Ray Eugene and Donna Rice of Duncan, Oklahoma, his sister Virginia Ann Pell of Pryor, Oklahoma, his sister Elizabeth "Suzie" and Jay Stafford of Pryor, Oklahoma, his sister Diana and Clint Harris of Chouteau, Oklahoma and Mother-in-law Oreta Castillo of Inola, Oklahoma. Boyd was also a proud grandfather to Brandie (Justin) Morrow of Pryor, Oklahoma, Amber (Trevor) Laue of Springdale, Arkansas, Hailee (Jason) Thompson of Stotts City, Missouri, Clayten Rice of Chouteau, Shanee Covey of Nevada, Missouri, Sydney Rice of Claremore, Oklahoma, Candace Goddard of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Baylee Telemchuk of Inola, Oklahoma, Adam Telemchuk of Stillwater, Oklahoma, Brooklyn Goddard of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Jared Goddard of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and honorary grandchildren Veronica Castillo, Jamie Burke, Clinton Ray Harris,  Cally Harris and Eldon Yoder. He was a loving great-grandfather to Preslie, Xander, Kasch, Brandon, Kolby, Winston, William, Emma, and Pablo.  Boyd also leaves behind a host of nephews, nieces, and treasured friends.

Boyd was preceded in death by his parents Ray and Virginia Rice, father-in-law Vernon Castillo, daughter Krystal Goddard and brother-in-law's Jim Camp and Jack Pell.

He had a fulfilling career, retiring from Baker Hughes in 2018 after 19 years of dedicated service. Prior to that, Boyd traveled the country with IT Corporation for 12 years. He then spent 10 years at N-Ren, followed by 1.5 years at Cherokee Mobile Homes. Boyd's career began at Oklahoma Fixtures, where he worked for 5 years upon graduating from High School. His commitment and hard work throughout his various roles made a lasting impact on those he worked with.

Boyd attended Chouteau Primary School and Chouteau High School, where he had the honor of playing on the school's first-ever football team. He was also a catcher for the baseball team and actively participated in basketball. He was an active member of the FFA and enjoyed raising show pigs. Boyd's love for sports extended to his son and grandchildren, whom he coached and supported. Whether in an official capacity or from the sidelines his words of "encouragement" could always be heard.  Boyd had a deep appreciation for the outdoors, spending time on his tractor mowing pastures and hunting. He cherished moments in his hunting blind with his grandson Adam and his hunting buddy Brooks Tramel. Boyd's guidance led to the successful harvest of over 18 deer.

The Visitation for Boyd Rice, Sr. will be held at Mallett Funeral Home in Wagoner, Oklahoma, on January 17, 2024, from 5 – 7 pm. The funeral will take place at Exciting Southeast Baptist Church in Pryor, Oklahoma, on January 18, 2024, at 2 p.m. Officiating will be Brother Carl Eslinger and Rob Pierce. Following the funeral services, Boyd will be laid to rest at New Home Cemetery in Peggs, Oklahoma.  Pall bearers:  Adam Telemchuk, Clayten Rice, Eli Mast, Dewayne Barnes, Brad Denton and Jason Gibson.  Honorary pall bearers:  Jim Vann, Jimmy Lewis, Johnny Ray, Walt Dry, Larry Rice, Billy Jack Foreman, Freddy Stimson, Jess VanBrunt, hunting buddy Brooks Tramel and football buddy Eldon Yoder.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Boyd was a beloved member of his community. He touched the lives of many through his kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends. Boyd will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and friend.  All who knew him will cherish his memory and the legacy he leaves behind.  Papa your memory will be kept alive in our hearts forever.

The family would like to thank all the Home Health Care, Hospice Nurses and multitude of medical professionals that have assisted in Boyd's care over the past few years.  A special thank you to Barbara Johnson for her countless hours she has spent at his bedside.  In memory of Boyd Rice, Sr., donations can be made to The Wounded Warrior Project .  His father instilled a deep respect for our military through his own service.