Leola McMahan Rice

Leola McMahan Rice, 97, made her entrance into this world on February 14, 1927, in North Zulch, Texas and made her entrance into glory on November 1, 2024. She was the daughter of proud parents, William Albert and Virgie (Isbell) McMahan. She was a lifelong resident of the area around North Zulch and Iola and blessed the lives of many people over the course of her life.

There are so many wonderful things that can be said about Leola. She was so kindhearted and saw great value in the lives of those she encountered. This was especially evident in her care for the elderly as she would carry them to doctor’s appointments and visit them on a regular basis. Leola will be fondly remembered as a woman with a solid work ethic. She spent many years in custodial service in the Iola school district and was very proud of the work she did there. When she was not working at the school, she was digging in the garden or mowing the lawn, something else Leola was passionate about. 

Leola was a great cook, and many were blessed by her recipes over the years. Her meals definitely left a lasting mark on those who sat at her table. Leola had the uncanny ability to say exactly what was on her mind to whoever she felt needed to hear it. She had a little bit of a stubborn streak, but it was balanced out with a loving and caring disposition that molded her together into one great lady.

Leola adored her family, especially her kids and grandchildren. She set a wonderful example for others to follow and was an instrument of God’s righteousness as He reached through Leola into the lives of others. Her life was characterized by sacrifice and service to others. 

Leola is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Floy Rice; grandson, Michael Floy Rice, II; brother William Albert McMahan; and sister, Ivas Rose Schimming.

Those left to cherish her memory are her son Michael “Bubba” Rice (Mona) of Iola; daughter, Ola Mae Nicol (Everett) of Tomball; grandchildren, Greg (Rachel), Stephanie, Amy (Michael), Steven (Haley) and Kevin (Mary); nine great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and numerous other nieces, nephews, extended family and loving friends.

A graveside service honoring the life of Leola Rice and officiated by Jerry McMahon will be held in the Cross Cemetery, Cross, Texas, on Monday, November 4, 2024, at 1 P.M.

Final arrangements for Leola Rice are under the compassionate care and direction of Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas.