Larned – Leona Mae Rice, 91, died June 2, 2008 at the Newton Medical Center, Newton, Kansas.

She was born April 29, 1917 at Gallatin, Missouri the daughter of Clarence E. and Eva Hart Barker. She was a retired personnel clerk at the Larned State Hospital, Larned.

She was a member of the First Christian Church, Larned, she belonged to the Rebecca's Lodge, was a girl scout and troop leader, a former Accountant at J.C. Penny's, and a former Secretary for Dr. Thomas Powell. She was the church treasurer for five years, volunteered for the Thrift Shop and belonged to the women's circle and sewing group.

On September 17, 1938 she married Clarence O. Brannam at Larned. He died August 25, 1969. On January 2, 1978 she married William Charles Rice at Larned. He died September 20, 1993.

Survivors include: a son C. Bartley Brannam, Burke, Virginia; a daughter, Cynthia Ann Wyss, Newton; five grandchildren; and fourteen great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by; three brothers; W.H. "Bill" Barker, Fred Barker, Clarence Barker Jr., and two sisters, Dorothy Huntzinger and Nancy Base.

Funeral will be at 11 a.m. Friday, June 6, 2008 at the Beckwith Mortuary Chapel, Larned, with Rev. Donna Friesen and Pastor Dan Lundgren presiding. Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday at the mortuary. Burial will be in the Larned Cemetery, Larned. In Lieu of flowers memorials may be sent to the Larned First Christian Church or the Harry Hynes Hospice of Newton both in care of Beckwith Mortuary, Inc., P.O. Box 477, Larned, KS 67550. Visit www.beckwithmortuary.com to leave personal condolences.