Mr. Theodore Rice, "after four-score years", answered the beckoning of the Master on Tuesday afternoon, November 23, 2010 from Muskogee.


In far Western Oklahoma, in the humble home of John Mack Ballard and Bertha Lee Woods Ballard, a second son was born and they named this son Theodore. Ted, as he was affectionately called, was blessed to have nine brothers and sisters to join him in the home.


Ted grew up in a Christian home and accepted Christ at an early age. After school, he joined the United States Army and served courageously, and received an Honorable discharge. Later in life, he met and married his beloved wife, Vetriss N. Rice. They spent many happy years as husband and wife.


He was a faithful member of the New Zion Baptist Church and was crowned as a Deacon by Reverend Joseph Cary on January 23, 2000. Later, he moved his membership to the Antioch Missionary Baptist church, where he served as President of the Brotherhood. He served faithfully until his health began to fail him. Although his health failed him, he never stopped caring and giving the best care he could for his lovely wife, along with the aid of his nephews, nieces and friends.


Mr. Rice dozed into the peaceful slumber of eternal rest on Tuesday, November 23, 2010 from Muskogee. Those who have gone on to await his arrival in Glory; his parents, and his siblings, Howard Wayne Ballard and Linda Sue Ballard.


Remaining to wait on the Lord; his devoted wife, Vetriss N. Rice, of the home; his siblings, Theoapolis Ballard [Ann], Tulsa, Oklahoma, Norma Jean Newton, Fort Worth, Texas, Marva Jo Ballard, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Mary Anna Allen, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Martha Jane Ballard, Tulsa, Oklahoma, John Mack Ballard, Jr., Tulsa, Oklahoma, Robert Lee Ballard, Ramona Faye Triplet both of Okahoma City, Oklahoma and Thomas Ballard [Laverne], Tulsa, Oklahoma; along with other relatives and friends.