HILLIS GEORGE RICE 

 HILLIS GEORGE RICE 

Hillis George Rice, age 79, of Columbia, passed away on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at his home. He was born on September 30, 1944, in Kirksville, Missouri, the son of George and Geneva (Dorsey) Rice. 

Hillis graduated from Scotland County High School in Memphis, Missouri. He entered the United States Army. 

He received his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from The University of Missouri- Columbia. 

Hillis worked in agriculture for his entire career for the USDA ACSC-FSA offices. The majority of his career was spent in Know County as the county Executive Director. Later he moved to the state office and worked in the Conservation Department. 

Hillis loved traveling to Las Vegas and all over the world. He was a huge sports fan, especially Mizzou and Columbia College Women’s Sports. He received the 2024 Koepke Family Service Award from Columbia College as a longtime fan and supporter. He also enjoyed square dancing in his earlier years and spending time with his daughter, Leslie. He was the “greatest dad he didn’t have to be”. 

Hillis is survived by his daughter Leslie (Kevin) Anson of New Franklin; brothers: Charles Rice of Kirksville, Dale (Joyce) Rice of Columbia, John (Laura) of Florida; sister, Lisa (Rod) Stevens of Iowa; grandchildren: Kolby (Grace) Anson, Hope Anson; nieces and nephews: Sarah (Hetal) Solanki, Amanda (Corey) Gott, Matt Stevens, Katie (Kara) Payne, Olivia Rice, and Landon Rice. 

He was preceded in death by his parents George and Geneva Rice. 

A Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Greensburg Cemetery in Greensburg, Missouri. 

Memorials may be made to Columbia College Women’s Athletic Department at https:// columbiacougars.com/ rice 

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash St., Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard. com.