Frank Arnold Rice

Frank Rice, age 83, of Buffalo, Missouri, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2026, at Colonial Springs Healthcare Center in Buffalo, Missouri. He was born on February 21, 1943, in New Offenburg, Missouri, to the late Otto Lee Rice and Dovie Mae (Pruitt) Rice. At the time of his passing, he was 83 years and 26 days old. Frank spent his early childhood in New Offenburg before moving in the second grade to a farm in Buffalo, Missouri, where he was raised. He grew up in a large family alongside his nine brothers and sisters. At a young age, Frank accepted Christ as his Savior during Bible school at Bible Baptist Church, a faith that remained an important part of his life. Frank proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1960 to 1963. During his service, he was stationed in France with the NATO European Medical Command, where he worked as a medical supply specialist. He achieved the rank of Specialist 5th Class and was honorably discharged in November of 1963. On May 14, 1965, Frank married the love of his life, Sharon Brown. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work, raising four children: Scott, Reggie, Jason, and Lisa. Throughout his life, Frank was known for his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. He held various jobs and was self-employed in several ventures. Alongside Sharon, he milked cows and operated a chukar farm. He also owned and operated an excavator business and a pump service. Additionally, he served as Dallas County North Commissioner for 8 years. His dedication to providing for his family was evident in everything he did. Frank had a deep love for the outdoors and enjoyed fishing and hunting. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family, creating lasting memories with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Otto and Dovie Rice; his brothers Dune, Elmer, Gary, Pete, and Marvin; and his sisters Linda Kay and Wanda Eddington. Frank is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Sharon Rice; his sons Scott Rice and wife Jacque, Reggie Rice and wife Missy, and Jason Rice and wife Michelle; and his daughter Lisa Sissel and husband Justin. He is also survived by his brother Danny Rice and wife Brenda, and his sister Judy Long. He leaves behind a legacy of love through his eight grandchildren: Dylan Rice and wife Mikalla, Christian Rice and wife Brittany, Austin Rice and wife Darrian, Emily Rice, Savannah Skinner and husband Easton, Garrett Rice, Parker Sissel, and Lyla Sissel; and six great-grandchildren: Liam, Kolby, Roman, Sawyer, Leah, and Lainey. Frank will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His kindness, strength, and unwavering dedication to his family will never be forgotten. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 21, 2026 in the Cantlon-Otterness & Viets Funeral Home with Bro. Dennis Skinner officiating. Escorts will be Dylan Rice, Christian Rice, Austin Rice, Garrett Rice, Easton Skinner, and Parker Sissel. Interment will be in the Memorial Gardens of Memory Cemetery under the care and direction of the Cantlon-Otterness & Viets Funeral Home of Buffalo. Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 a.m. Saturday at the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

Frank Arnold Rice

February 21, 1943 - March 18, 2026