Barbara A. Rice,78, of Fairland, Indiana passed away peacefully on January 16th, 2026 at her home.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Fred Martin (Father), Dorothy Gibbens(Mother), and Step-father(Delbert Gibbens), and son, James Rice(Infant). She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Jimmy Rice, and sibling Cynthia Mock(Paul). Children: LeeAnn Rice, Todd Rice(Sara); Grandchildren: Sydney Woodson(Noah), Samuel Rice, Alexander Rice; Great-grandchildren: Oliver Woodson, and Winnie Woodson; and many other extended family members and beloved friends.
Barbara was born in Indianapolis, Indiana on November 14th, 1947 to the late, Fred Martin and Dorothy Gibbens. Barbara received her Bachelor's and Master Degree from Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. She went on to become an English teacher and was a dedicated teacher for 39 years. She was involved with and ran the Booster Club at Emmerich Manual High School and received several awards of recognition during her 39 years of teaching. Barbara was very dedicated to her students and they all loved her. Barbara had many special friends she met through the years while teaching.
Barbara was a very loving mother who dedicated her life to her family. She was caring, compassionate, witty, and loved deeply. Barbara was an avid lover of animals. Barbara had a love for horses at a young age and she loved to ride and train them. Barbara had several horses that she loved deeply throughout her life. She also loved Boxers, her many plants, and Hummingbirds.
Arrangements handled by Bell Mortuary & Crematory, Shangrila Chapel, 1444 W US HWY 52, Fountaintown, IN 46130.
Online condolences at www.bellmortuary.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1444 West US Hwy 52, Fountaintown, IN 46130

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more