Herbert "Herb" Rice Jr.

Herbert Rice Jr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on January 21, 2026, at the age of 88.

He was born on July 12, 1937, in Rye, Arkansas. As a young boy, Herbert moved with his family to Texas, where he would spend the majority of his life building a life defined by faith, integrity, and hard work.

At the age of eight, Herbert accepted Jesus Christ into his heart and was baptized in the Saline River in Rye, Arkansas. His faith remained a steady and guiding presence throughout his life, shaping the way he treated others and the values he lived by. He was known for his quiet strength, honesty, and kindness; traits that were evident to all who knew him and that he consistently modeled for his family.

Herbert dedicated 30 years of service as a District Manager for American National Insurance, where he earned the respect of colleagues and clients alike for his leadership, work ethic, and fairness. Beyond his professional career, he was deeply committed to serving his community. For many years, Herbert volunteered his time with the Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Corporation, work he took great pride in. He genuinely loved people and found purpose in helping others, whether through leadership, service, or simple acts of kindness.

After retiring, Herbert found deep joy and contentment at the ranch, where he spent countless hours caring for the cattle and tending the hay, often alongside one of his closest friends. The ranch was where he felt most at peace and where his love for meaningful, hands-on work was most evident.

Herbert was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley Palermo Rice, whose passing five months earlier left a profound absence. Their marriage was one of devotion, partnership, and enduring love.

He is survived by his four children: Jodye Burge and her husband Wayne; Jay Rice and his wife Lisa; Joni Jalali; and Kirk Rice and his wife Lori.

He also leaves behind his grandchildren: Kurt Riley, Jr. (Nicole), Christopher Burge (Denyse), Mina Jalali, Amir Jalali (DeLani), Jacob Rice (Cassee), Blake Rice, and Courtney Tomplait.

Herbert was a proud great-grandfather to Waylon Rice and Reza Jalali, and step great-grandfather to Dalton Harrel and Lincoln Harrel.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to his devoted caretaker, Nicole, whose compassion, dedication, and support were a true blessing to Herbert and to our family. We also offer sincere thanks to the nurses and staff who provided him with care and kindness during his final days.

Herbert Rice Jr. will be remembered as a good and faithful man, steady in his faith, generous with his time, and deeply committed to his family and community. His life leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, humility, service, and quiet strength.