Charley “Doug” RiceHutchinson, KS

Charley “Doug” Rice, 71, died January 20, 2026, peacefully at his home, Hutchinson. Doug was born to Charley B.  and Billie (Willard) Rice on September 10, 1954, in Hutchinson. Born with Spina Bifida, Doug had many challenges and lived most of his life in a wheelchair. However, as he grew older, he learned to face those challenges by keeping busy and making friends. He became a member of the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 68, was on the board of the former Hutch Fest and on the RCAT Board. Doug also enjoyed volunteering at the Kansas State Fair and at the NJCAA basketball tournament.

Doug enjoyed several hobbies including gardening, stamp collecting and photography. He won several ribbons over the years at the Kansas State Fair with his photos. He also had a large collection of eagle statues. Doug was one of the biggest fans of Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Community College athletics and attended games regularly.

He is survived by: his sisters, Carolyn (Roger) Jantz of Hesston, Wendy (Troy) Smith of Wichita, Lauretta French and Pam O’Neal, both of Casper, WY; sister-in-law, Charlotte Johnson of Buhler; cousin and friend, Terry Casey; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Wickie Johnson.

Memorial service will be 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Elliott Mortuary. Private family burial will take place at a later date in Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson. Friends may sign his book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday. Family will greet friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Monday, at Elliott Mortuary. Cremation has taken place.

Click here to view the memorial service for Mr. Rice.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Sons of the American Legion Squadron 68 and Hutchinson AMBUCS, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.