Raymond Dale Rice

Raymond Dale Rice, 73, passed away Thursday, March 16, 2017 with his family by his side, at his home in Eagar. He was born November 13, 1943 in Morenci, the son of Raymond L. Rice and Butrice Myrl Childers Rice. Dale served his country in the United States Army from 1962-1970. He was a Purple Heart recipient along with many other awards during his military career. Due to various employment opportunities his family moved several times during his childhood finally settling in Thatcher where he attended Thatcher schools. Dale was a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, being very active in Boy Scouts. He married the love of his life, Linda on December 28, 1984 in Mesa. Dale was a member of the Graham County S&R for many years holding the office of Communications Officer. He was always one of the first ones to arrive at a search and one of the last to leave. He worked as a volunteer dispatcher for the Graham County Sheriff’s Department where he enjoyed working with the officers and staff at that department. His love for hunting and fishing never dimmed as he grew older. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially hunting and fishing trips with his grandsons, Adam, Chad and Bryan and special friends, Jim Layton and David DeSpain. Dale was a very humble man who always put others needs before his own. Dale is survived by his sweetheart of 32 years, Linda Rice, Eagar; step-children, Julie (Peter) Trujillo, Safford; Larry Olson, Tucson; John (Nicol) Hains, Tucson; brothers, Paul (Jackie) Rice, Marty (Becky) Rice, sister, Sherry Bryce, 8 grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, step-daughter-in-law, Regina Olson, sister, Naomi “Bunny” Heward and brothers-in-law, Paul Bryce and Dick Heward. A Graveside Service will be held Friday, March 24, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the Thatcher Town Cemetery, Stadium Ave. and Ball Park Rd., Thatcher.