05/15/2026
Life on earth for James L. Rice, born October 8, 1936 came to an end May 13, 2026.
Rice often said that outside of having wonderful parents, Virgil E. and Bessie O. Rice, having 63 years of marriage to Vonda was a gift of God. Jay and Julie Rice were born to the couple and they offered so much for James (Jim) of which to be proud.
Jim is a graduate of Classen High School, attended the University of Oklahoma and graduated from Oklahoma City University.
Rice had a successful career in advertising. After learning much with ten years of experience at the Daily Oklahoman and another advertising agency, Jim and Vonda established the Rice Advertising Agency in 1974. The firm provided advertising services to many of the most prominent businesses throughout the Southwest. Rice served civic and professional organizations in leadership roles like the Southwest Association of Advertising Agencies, the Exchange Club of Oklahoma City, and Sales and Marketing Association. He also had leadership roles at his church, Wesley United Methodist in Oklahoma City.
One of the most prestigious awards of the Oklahoma City Advertising Club, the Silver Medal Award was given to Vonda and Jim. It was the first time the award was given to a working husband and wife in the advertising agency business. The award is for the highest recognition in advertising for outstanding contribution to the profession.
Rice was extremely proud of his time coaching little league football, softball and baseball. He was one of the first Little League Football coaches starting in 1957. Participation of son, Jay and daughter, Julie Rice in sports activity coached by Jim and others provided many thrills to the family. Rice was a softball fast pitcher for Wesley United Methodist Church and other teams. He loved sports and played golf until recently.
After 23 years of active and reserve duty, Jim retired as a Major from the United States Army in 1981. He said often, “Being drafted into military service turned out very good for him.” His last assignment was serving as a liaison officer to the United States Military Academy at West Point.
Two blessings came to Jim and Vonda in their later years, granddaughters Abigail and Audrey Rice. His desire is to thank all the many friends and relatives he had in life. Jim believed God had been at his side in support of health, family, work, and worship.
James (Jim) Rice is survived by his wife, Vonda; son, Jay Rice; daughter, Julie Rice; daughter-in-law, Jang Satchakul and granddaughters Abigail and Audrey Rice.
The service will be held on Wednesday, May, 20, 2026 at 2 PM at Wesley United Methodist Church with burial to follow at Rose Hill Burial Park. Services are under the direction of Crawford Buchanan Funeral & Cremation Service.
Memorial gifts to support Wesley Church and its memories can be made to Wesley UMC OKC by clicking here: https://onrealm.org/WesleyUnitedMet86318/-/form/give/now