Roberta Violet Rice's Obituary
Roberta Violet Rice, of Welch, Okla., passed away at her rural home Monday morning, August 19, 2019, after an illness. She was 99 years old.
She was born June 15, 1920, west of Welch, to Charles Roy McClure and Grace (Curnutte) McClure. She was a graduate of Bluejacket High School. On October 9, 1940, she married John Jacob Rice. They made their home on a farm west of Welch, where they enjoyed summers harvesting their garden and preparing for the winter months.
Roberta was a retired Nurse Aide, working at Eastern State Hospital for over 30 years. After retiring, she continued to farm, as they grew large gardens to share throughout the community. She also loved sewing, quilting, cooking, and collecting poems. She was a longtime member of the Welch Christian Church, and helped with vacation bible school for years.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a daughter, Barbara Ann Aderton; two brothers, Robert and Wayne McClure, along with an infant brother.
She is survived by one daughter, Juanita Hilliard of Welch; one grandchild, Maurene Russell and husband, Todd, of Salina, Okla.; two grandchildren, Amanda and Jacob Russell; along with several nieces and nephews.
Roberta's service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, August 22, 2019 at the Thomas & Chenoweth Funeral Home Chapel. The family will greet friends beginning at 9:00 a.m. prior to the service. Minister Jesse Burns will officiate. She will be laid to rest in the Welch Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Jacob Russell, Bob Eubanks, Garry Chaney, Johnny Hurst, Delroy Foust, and Mike Fitzpatrick.
What’s your fondest memory of Roberta?
What’s a lesson you learned from Roberta?
Share a story where Roberta's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Roberta you’ll never forget.
How did Roberta make you smile?

