Ardith "Artie" Kay Rice

Ardith "Artie" Kay Rice of Mountain Home, Arkansas, passed away October 6, 2025, in Mountain Home, Arkansas at the age of 83. She was born September 14, 1942, in Antioch, California, the daughter of Kenneth and Alberta Hollett Johnson. She married her high school sweetheart, William Rice, on June 20, 1959 in Citrus Heights, California. The couple lived in Sacramento, California in their early marriage. They made Grants Pass, Oregon, their home and raised their seven children there. Artie worked in retail and grocery at a variety of companies. Upon retirement, Artie and William moved to Arkansas. They moved away for a short time and made their way back from Idaho in October 2023. Artie was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She was incredibly giving in service. Artie loved kids and especially babies. She was never known to sit still, unless reading a book.

Artie is survived by her husband, William Rice of Mountain Home, AR; children, Christy Pennington of Mountain Home, AR, Kenneth H. Rice of Clarksville, TN, Charlene K. Cagnolatti of Nampa, ID, Robyn Rice of St. Maries, ID, Kelly D. Rice of West Sacramento, CA, and Ashley K. Hanlon of Meridian, ID; 27 grandchildren; and 30 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and son, Richard Rice.

Visitation will be Friday, October 17, 2025, 5:00 pm, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Mountain Home, Arkansas. A Funeral Service for Artie will begin at 6:00 pm, with Bishop Chad Maple officiating.

Memorials may be made to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Arrangements are by Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services - Mountain Home, Arkansas. Visit an online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.