Bobby Joe Rice

Bobby Joe Rice, a kind and generous man, whose laughter could light up a room, passed away on August 11, 2025, at the age of 65. Born on April 16, 1960, in Cardwell, Missouri, Bobby led a life filled with service, family, and passion. He graduated from Malden High School in 1978 and furthered his education at Black River Technical College in Pocahontas, Arkansas.

On March 28, 1999, Bobby married the love of his life, Belinda Rice. He was a devoted father to three children: Briana Jean (Joshua) of Campbell, Missouri; Christopher Smith (Jessica) of Pocahontas, Arkansas; and Taylor White (Hunter) of Sherwood, Arkansas. He cherished his role as a grandfather to Juno Jean, Jordan Smith, Jasmine Smith, Julie Smith, and Ariel Smith, and as a great-grandfather to Joseph Ludwick, Grayson Ludwick, and Emma White. Bobby also leaves behind his sister, Carolyn Martin of Malden, Missouri, along with a host of family and friends who will miss his kindness and humor dearly.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Johnny and Lola Rice; his sister, Brenda Rice; his daughter, Jennifer Smith; and his mother and father-in-law, Bruce and Betty Womble. Bobby Joe Rice leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and service, forever cherished in the memories of those who knew him.

He served as a Senior Site Manager with Daifuku Elite Line Services at Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport, where he was respected for his leadership and commitment. In his earlier career, Bobby was in a supervisory role at Waterloo Industries in Pocahontas, Arkansas. His professional journey was preceded by a noteworthy tenure in the United States Air Force, where Bobby proudly served for four years, stationed in Guam and Oklahoma City.

Beyond his careers, Bobby was deeply passionate about his hobbies. As a Harley Davidson enthusiast, he spent countless hours enjoying bike rides and reaching out to his community through support for Toys for Tots. Bobby enjoyed getting and talking about tattoos. He also loved spending time with his grandkids. His generous spirit was not just limited to his interests; it emanated in his daily interactions, making everyone around him feel at ease.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025 from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Smith Sherwood Funeral Home (7700 Hwy 107). 

A graveside service with military honors will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, September 20th, at Gravesville Cemetery in Pocahontas, Arkansas.