Cecil Leon Rice

Cecil Leon Rice passed away peacefully at his home early Tuesday morning, August 20, 2013 surrounded by his daughters and Lois, his sweetheart of 66 years.

Leon was born in Plevna, Missouri on September 29, 1924 to James Cecil and Virgie Belle (Rhoades) Rice. He married Lois May Shuler in a civil ceremony on October 23, 1947, they were sealed for Time and all Eternity on October 23, 1970 in the Logan L.D.S. Temple. They have five children, Wanda (Rodney) Payne; J.R. (Sue) Rice; Sue (Marv) Pebley; Joyce (Jeff) Devey and Vickie (Dennis) Henson; 18 grandchildren, 37 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. Leon was preceded in death by his father, mother and brothers, his son, J.R. and his son-in-law, Dennis.

Leon graduated Class President and Valedictorian at the age of 17 and went to work on a river boat as a soda jerk. He spent many summers traveling to Idaho with his parents to work in the fields, haul timber, and even helped build the Minidoka Internment Camp.

Like many young men, he joined the Army Air Corp in 1942. After his regular tour of duty, he married his sweetheart, and reenlisted in the Air Force for another 20 years. He retired as a Chief Master Sergeant in 1964. He then worked 8 years with the Civil Service as a computer programmer. He moved to Idaho in 1972 and programmed computers for companies in the Magic Valley.

Being a Cub Scout Leader was perhaps his most cherished position and for the five years he was Ward Finance Clerk for the Filer 1st ward his records always balanced. He was called as Executive Secretary to Bishop Jerry Staley. Over time they became close friends.

Leon was a good provider for the needs of his family and was forever faithful to his wife. He was steady, dependable and trustworthy. His “word was as good as his bond.”

The family would like to thank the staff at Bridgeview Estates, Visions Hospice and White Mortuary for their care throughout this difficult time.

Funeral services for Leon will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2013 at the Filer 1st Ward, 841 W. Midway, Filer, ID with Bishop Jerre Tews conducting. Burial will follow at the Filer Cemetery. Military Honors by the Magic Valley Honor Guard and Idaho National Guard. A viewing for friends and family will take place on Saturday morning from 9:30 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. at the LDS church. Services are under the direction of Trent Stimpson and staff at White Mortuary, Chapel by the Park, Twin Falls.

Condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.whitemortuary.com