1951–2825
Clovia Ruth Rice was laid to rest on March 15, 2026 at Roaring Springs Cemetery in Motley County, Texas. She was born August 29, 1951 to Joe B. Rice, Sr. and Lona (Chaney) Gaylor. Clovia died January 2, 2026, in Calhoun, Ga., from an advanced form of cancer.
Clovia dedicated much of her life to the care of others. She babysat her younger siblings from an early age, bore three children, became a Registered Nurse, and cared for ailing relatives upon retirement. She also participated in Health Ministries at Martin Luther King, Jr. Seventh-day Adventist Church (Lubbock) and volunteered at the Motley County Library in Matador, Texas.
Clovia’s devotion was not merely spoken but lived, woven into good intention and quiet moments of prayer. She employed her joy of learning by researching topics on health, home and studying her Bible. She demonstrated her concern for children through crocheting and sewing for their comfort. She relaxed by reading, singing along with music and spending time with her beloved cat, Buster. Her faith in Jesus Christ anchored her hope of salvation.
Clovia is survived by her daughter, Dorothy (Moore) Keller (Wa.), and her two sons, Vernon K. Watkins (Tex.) and Jeffrey L. Watkins (Okla.), along with grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other beloved family.