Leota Stinnett Rice

Leota Stinnett Rice, 89, of Cleveland, departed this life peacefully to be with her Savior Jesus Christ on December 30, 2022.

She was born on June 29, 1933, in Benton, TN to the late Alfred and Stella Mae Cavett Stinnett.

Throughout life she served others well and valued family. Leota grew up active in church, first at Smyrna Baptist and then at First Baptist Church in Benton. In her younger years, she traveled and stayed with families in other communities to do Vacation Bible School. She was well-known in the area as a leader at Benton Banking Co. for over 40 years. She loved to travel with family, friends and on bus tours.

In addition to her parents, Leota was preceded in death by her daughter, Ramona (David, surviving) King; and siblings, Paul Stinnett, Marvin (Evelyn) Stinnett, Jerry Stinnett, and Lucille (W.L.) Shipman; sister-in-law, Shirlyn Stinnett.

Left to cherish the many memories include her loving husband of 68 years, James W. “Billy” Rice; beloved daughter, Rhonda (Tom) Jolley; brothers, Billy (Drusilla) Stinnett, A.J. Stinnett, and sister-in-law, Clara Stinnett; cherished grandchildren, Meagan Jolley, and Joshua ( Lauren) Jolley; great-grandchildren, Addy Jolley, Leah Jolley, Nolan Jolley, and Owen Jolley. Several nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends also survive.

A Celebration of Life service will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, January 2, 2023, at First Baptist Church of Benton, with Dr. Robert K. Speights officiating. Interment will follow at Benton Memorial Gardens with the following family serving as pallbearers: Chris Stinnett, Greg Stinnett, Terry Stinnett, Nathan Shipman, Jeff Stinnett, and Danny Stinnett; and honorary pallbearers, Mike Stinnett, Mark Shipman, Dennis Stinnett, and Dean Stinnett.

Family and friends will gather from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Monday, prior to the service at the church.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.HigginsFuneral.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Higgins Funeral Home of Benton.