Doug Rice

Douglas W. Rice, 76, of Nancy, passed away Tuesday, August 29, 2023. Doug was the son of Geneva (Floyd) & James Lee Rice, Sr. who preceded him in death. He was also predeceased by one brother James Lee (Diane) Rice, Jr. 

Doug proudly served in the United States Navy (U.S.S. Austin), the United States Navy Reserve, the United States Army Reserve, and the Kentucky National Guard. He also worked as a Kentucky State Police dispatcher, taught classes at Somerset Community College, and eventually retired from a career as an educational sales consultant. 

Doug was best known throughout the community for his twenty years of service teaching at Somerset High School from 1977 to 1997. Having a Masters Degree and Rank 1 from Western Kentucky University, Doug primarily taught Psychology, Sociology, and Civics. Former students still express their appreciation and admiration for the way he taught with respect, creativity, and humor. More than fulfilling his duty as classroom teacher, Mr. Rice organized prom, supervised float building, sold concessions at SHS games, and led trips to the State Capital in Frankfort.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Beverly (Stykes); two sons, Bryan Douglas (Sherri) Rice and Shawn Patrick (Whitney) Rice both of Lexington; two grandchildren, Elizabeth Anne Rice and Grayson Andrew Rice of Lexington; brothers-in-law Jerome Stykes and Kevin (Joann) Stykes both of Somerset; sisters-in-law Diane Yanders Rice and Gloria (Jeffrey) McGrady both of Somerset; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

For those wishing to pay their respects, a graveside service will be held Wednesday, September 6th at 1:30pm at Mill Springs National Cemetery. Military honors will be conducted by American Legion Post 38 Honor Guard and Colonel Jeffrey D. McGrady, US Army Chaplain, will preside over the burial ceremony. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Homeless and Housing Coalition of Kentucky. The family welcomes your stories and memories of Doug in the comments below as we continue to reflect on his life and legacy.