Jared A. Rice, 44 of Springfield, passed away on Thursday, September 5, 2024, in his home.  He was born on June 8, 1980, in Springfield, the son of John Rice and Carol Cook.  Jared attended Lincoln Land Community College and Lakeland Community College.  He was a talented artist and was especially gifted at drawing.  He loved dogs, especially his faithful companion Ginger, who was always by his side.

He is survived by mother: Carol Buckley of Savanah, Tennessee; father: John Rice of Ozark, Missouri; children: Levi Spurgeon of Somerset, Kentucky and Madison McLaughlin of Springfield; step siblings: Logan Goodman, Jennifer Goodman, Michael Lebeter, Robi Lynn Weeks, and Matthew Buckley; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his grandparents: Arthur and Eva Cook, and Ruby Rice; and stepbrother: Adam Buckley.

Jared will be cremated, and the family will host a graveside service at 1pm on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at the Edinburg Cemetery.  Memorial donations may be made to the Christian County Animal Control.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.