Barbara Ann Rice (Shelankgoski), 73, of Kirksville, Missouri, passed away Thursday, September 4, 2025, at Northeast Regional Medical Center with her daughters and friends by her side.

Barb was born on August 31, 1952, in Fairfield, Iowa. She grew up in Brighton, Iowa, and graduated from Washington High School.

Barb went to nursing school in Ottumwa, Iowa, and obtained her certification to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. In her fifty years as a nurse, she served in hospitals, dialysis clinics and schools. Most recently, she was the nurse at William Matthew Middle School for twenty-four years. Barb truly loved her friends and community and served as a proud member of several organizations through the years. These organizations included: Missouri Association of Licensed Practical Nurses, American Business Women's Association, Missouri National Education Association, Gamma Pi local chapter of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, Heartland Drug Task Force, Breathe Easy Kirksville, Smokebusters, Optimist International, Girl Scouts and 4-H.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents, Anthony and Mary Shelangoski. She is survived by her loving family including her daughters Amanda (Corey) Gott of Trenton, Missouri and Sarah (Hetal) Solanki of Costa Mesa, California. Her grandchildren Delaney Gott, Addison Gott, and Leo Solanki were the light of her life.

Barb will be remembered for her servant's heart, kindness, and optimistic outlook no matter the circumstances. She was an avid sewer, crafter, and crocheter. She saw the beauty in everything.

We invite you to celebrate her beautiful life on Tuesday, September 9, at Countryside Christian Church in Kirksville, Missouri. A visitation will be held at 11:00 am, with a service at noon and lunch immediately following. A private family burial will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be directed to Countryside Christian Church (memo: Barb Rice Memorial) to be distributed to community organizations that were close to Barb's heart.