Betty Jean Mahkuk Rice

Betty Jean Mahkuk Rice, 86, of Mayetta, passed away on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the Rossville Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center.

Born on April 4, 1939, in Mayetta to Pete Matchie and Lucille Mahkuk, Betty was a lifelong member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation and the Native American Church. In 1957, she married Orville Rice; though they later divorced, he preceded her in death.

Betty began her career as a Licensed Practical Nurse. After earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Washburn University, she dedicated many years to helping others through social services, first with the Four Tribes of Kansas and later with Prairie Band Potawatomi Social Services. Those who knew her remember her deep commitment to her community and her quiet strength.

She was preceded in death by her sons Kevin Rice and Brad Rice, her daughter Sylvia Johnson, her adopted daughter Marilyn LaCour, four brothers, and three sisters. Betty is survived by her son Chris Rice and his wife Kristina of Nedrow, New York; adopted sons Wayne Jesseppe and Shon Jesseppe and his wife Carol, all of Horton; her daughter Shirley Mitchell and her husband Tom of Oskaloosa; two brothers, Roland Matchie of Holton and Fred Mahkuk of Wisconsin; six sisters; ten grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and many other grandchildren with whom she shared a special bond.