William Y. Rice II, born June 22, 1930, in Tyler, Texas, lived a life defined by faith, service, and family. A devoted husband of 72 years to Rachel, Bill was a man of deep conviction whose love for God and his community shaped his life’s work. He graduated from Baylor University in 1951, earning his BBA and beginning his lifelong dedication to civic leadership. Bill served two terms as Mayor of Longview, spent 11 years on the city council, and contributed to numerous organizations, including the Sabine River Authority, Longview Rotary Club, and LeTourneau University. His efforts were recognized with the prestigious Carl Estes Memorial Award in 1971.

A visionary entrepreneur, Bill’s career spanned industries from oil and gas with EastTex Oil Company to real estate, banking, and Broadway productions. His passion for innovation led him to co-found Eagle Capital Advisors in 2019 with his son and grandson, fulfilling a dream of helping others achieve financial success. His leadership in business and community organizations demonstrated his commitment to personal relationships and broader societal impact.

Bill’s legacy lives on through his family, which includes three sons, five grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. His love for travel, skiing in Vail, and the arts enriched his life, as did his remarkable sense of humor. William Y. Rice II will be remembered for his unwavering faith, entrepreneurial spirit, and enduring contributions to the community he cherished.