Della Marie Rice

Della Marie Rice, 78, of Weatherford, Texas went to be with her Lord and Savior on August 14, 2019 surrounded by her family.
A Funeral Service will be held Tuesday, August 20, 2019 at Central Christian Church beginning at 10:00 am. Burial will follow at East Greenwood Cemetery. On Monday, August 19th a visitation will be held at Galbreaith Pickard Funeral Chapel from 5:00pm to 7:00pm.
Della was born in Sweetwater, Texas to the late Clarence Wilborn and Pearl Isadore McCoy Lewis on April 11, 1941. She grew up with her brother, Bill, and sister, Fannie. After high school, Della attended Hardin-Simmons University where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business. She married the love of her life, Byron Carl Rice and together they had two children, Derrick and Stephen. In 1975 they became official residents of Parker County. In 1982 they opened Big Pantry which became a local hot spot in Weatherford. Della and her husband were very involved in the community. They are also former owners of Byron Rice Lincoln Mercury Dealership. She attended Central Christian Church with her family and was active in the Friendship Sunday School Class. Della loved to sing and loved to spend time with her family. She made a huge impact on the Parker County Community and for that we are forever grateful.
Della is preceded in death by her parents, Clarence Wilborn Lewis and Pearl Isadore McCoy Lewis; brothers, J.H. and Earl; and sisters, Gwen and Martha.
Survivors include her loving husband of over 50 years, Byron Carl Rice of Weatherford; sons, Derrick Rice (Sara) and Stephen Rice of Weatherford; sister, Fannie Ventle of Lubbock; brother, Bill Lewis of Sweetwater; grandchildren, Lola Rice and Joaquin Rice; and a host of church family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of Della Rice.