Louis William Rice

Louis William Rice was a kind, understanding soul who cared deeply about others. He was an intellectual, a dreamer, a visionary, a son, a husband, a father, a grandfather, an uncle, and a friend to many. He took great joy in being a follower of Christ and strove to become a better Catholic every day of his life. He had a contagious laugh and joie de vivre that made everyone instantly feel at home. He knew no strangers and always had a comforting word or laugh to share with anyone in need of uplifting.

Louis was a natural leader from an early age, serving as valedictorian of his graduating class of 1971 at Crystal City High School. After graduation, he served in the Army and earned his business degree from UTSA in 1976. He later completed his education with a master’s degree at HBU in 1982.

Louis began his career in Oil & Gas in 1977 with Transco pipeline, he later worked for Norcen Explorer before becoming a co-founder and president of Worldwide Energy Services, a producer services company where he had the honor of working alongside his daughter Stacey. Louis was well respected in the industry, and became an expert witness due to his knowledge from both the pipeline and producer's perspective.

Houston was where Louis & his wife Diana established their home and raised their daughters. Louis' love for Houston sports teams grew, even though he had followed Houston sports throughout his adolescent life. He loved rooting for the Astros, Oilers, Rockets & Texans. Louis enjoyed playing golf at Bentwater and Houston National along with various other courses. He also liked playing basketball and racquetball.

Helping others and his community were important to him. He served as the President of his HOA for many years, tutored students, and mentored students through the Boys & Girls Club of Houston. He volunteered as a coach and scout leader. At his community church, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, where he was a parishioner since 1977, he volunteered to lead Faith Formation Confirmation classes, was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Men's Group, and WATCH.

Born on November 22, 1952, in El Paso, Texas, Louis was called to be with the Lord on November 26, 2024. Despite becoming ill in his final months, he remained an active mentor in both his business and his faith. He truly fought the good fight and was present for others until the very end.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Oscar & Lorena Rice. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Diana; his two daughters, Stacey and husband Charles Torres and Stephanie and husband James. He is also survived by his five grandchildren—Celine and Anthony Torres, and Sofia, Samuel, and Mateo —who were the light of his life. Additionally, he leaves behind his brothers, Oscar Rice and wife Rose, and James Rice and wife Diana; his brother-in-law, Ric Castillo and wife Otila, and sister-in-law Becky Castillo, as well as his Uncle Jesse Martinez, numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Louis truly set the bar high as a good human being, leaving an indelible mark on Earth. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Wreaths Across America to to remember and honor our veterans through the laying of Remembrance wreaths this holiday season.

A visitation will begin at 5:00 p.m. with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 8, 2024 at Brookside Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, December 9, 2024 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. Military Honors to follow at Houston National Cemetery.