William Howard Rice Sr. passed away surrounded by the love of a family who will forever carry his influence with them.

He is survived by his daughter, Tammy Shield-Rice; his sons, William H. Rice Jr. and Craig Rice; his stepdaughter, Lisa Gentcher; and six grandchildren whom he loved dearly.

William was a man who knew what he loved. He was a devoted fan of all things New Orleans Saints and LSU football, loved classic rock music, and rarely met a dessert he wouldn’t eat—as long as it didn’t eat him first.

But the greatest part of William’s life was his family.

He was an amazing father who taught his children, both through his words and the way he lived, the importance of family, hard work, responsibility, and taking care of the people you love. Those lessons became part of who his children are and will continue through his grandchildren and the generations that follow.

William found Jesus later in life, but in many ways, he had spent his life already practicing the values of his faith. He worked hard, loved his family deeply, helped provide for those he loved, and understood that family was something to protect, nurture, and hold onto.

He leaves behind countless memories, lessons, laughter, and a family that is better because he was at the center of it.

William was loved dearly in this life, and he will be missed even more.

His family takes comfort in knowing that his work here is finished, his faith has brought him home, and the love he gave them remains.

Rest easy, Dad. You raised us well. We’ll take it from here.