Beauregard Daily News, Beauregard Parish Louisiana
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O.J. Adams
Funeral Services for Orellian Joseph "O J" Adams, Sr., 74, of DeRidder, will be held at Saturday, June 14, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in DeRidder. Burial will follow in Dry Creek Cemetery, Dry Creek, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. Friday, June 13, 2014, and from 9 a.m. until time of the funeral service Saturday, June 14, all at the funeral home.
Mr. Adams was born in White Castle, La., on July 13, 1939, and passed away on Tuesday, June 10, 2014, at 6:30 p.m. in Beauregard Memorial Hospital. "O.J." was a veteran of the U. S. Marine Corps, owner and operator of Marks Automotive and R & O Camper Sales. He was a 32nd Degree Mason and past Master of Little Flock Lodge 236, Portland Lodge 499 and a Shriner. He loved his family very much and was a friend to everyone and was loved by everyone that knew him. "O.J." loved to hunt, travel with family and friends who loved him. He always wore his Mason buckle and ring proudly.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Rita Gail Gee Adams; one son, Jody Adams and wife Lisa of DeRidder; two daughters, Nanette Swisher and husband Jerry of DeRidder, and Cherie Motley and husband Richard of Houston, Texas; eight grandchildren, Jeremy Swisher and wife Courtney of DeRidder, Heather Clow and husband Clinten and Darrin Motley, all of Houston, Bradley Motley of Brenham, Texas, Zachary Motley and wife Catherine of Winterport, Maine, Allie Adams Isbelle and husband Weston, Lanie Adams and Tanner Adams, all of DeRidder; and six great grandchildren; two sisters, Sharon Jarreau and Marilyn David; one brother, Edward Adams, Jr. and wife Janet, all of Port Allen, La. He was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Annette Adams. The family requests that in lieu of flowers memorials be made to Shriners Hospital or Dry Creek Baptist Encampment in honor of their beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle and loving friend. 

Essie Dee Akin
Essie Dee Akin, 77, of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Monday, Feb. 24, 2014 at her home. Those left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Vanessa Roshto and husband Reed, and Judy Richard, all of DeRidder, La.; sister, Effie Whinstine and husband Cleveland of Oakdale, La.; grandchildren, Michael Roshto and wife Kayla of Deridder, La., Jason Roshto and Becky Marcantel of Sulphur, La., and Crystal West and husband Spooky of Rosepine, La.; 5 great grandchildren; and 1 great grandchild.
She was preceded in death by her husband, John Akin; parents, Fred and Estelle Stafford; granddaughter, Katina Roshto; son-in-law, Wilfred Richard; and numerous brothers and sisters. Visitation will be held Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2014 at 2 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Beauregard Cemetery in DeRidder, La. 

Margie Allen
Margie Mae Allen, 90 passed away on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2014 in the Jennings American Legion Hospital and was a resident of the Southwest LA War Veterans Home. She was a graduate of 1940 from Sulphur High School. Margie lived many years in Sulphur and Lake Charles before moving to Dry Creek after retirement. She worked as a LPN for many years, was an avid gardener who loved working in her yard especially her flowers.
Margie is survived by her son, Floyd Eddie Allen of Dry Creek; two daughters, Barbara Barton of Westlake and Jerrie Rae Young and husband, Oris of Lake Charles; 6 grandchildren, Missy Young, Christy Young Cormier, Shanacee Gardner, J J Barton, Veronica Schexnayder and Marcie Dobbs; 9 great grandchildren; and daughter-in-law, Mary Allen of Dry Creek. She was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd C. Allen and son, Glen Teddie Allen.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2014 at 1 p.m. at Johnson and Robison Funeral Home Chapel in Sulphur, La., with Rev. Roderick Martin officiating. Burial will be in Mimosa Pines Cemetery in Carlyss under the direction of Johnson and Robison Funeral Home. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2014 from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home and will resume on Wednesday at 9 a.m. until time of the service. 

Abraham Bailey
Abraham "Buddy" Bailey, 73, of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Sunday, May 18, 2014. Those left to cherish his memory are his sons, Lawrence "Dewayne" Bailey and wife Ma-Chierly of the Phillipines, George Bailey and wife Eva of DeRidder, La., and Kenneth Riggle and wife Susie of Rosepine, La,; daughter, Darla Marie Whittington and husband Ricky of Rosepine, La.; sister, Tobitha "Sis" Gill of DeQueen, AR, and Mary "Mag" Beckwith of Deridder, LA; 18 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.
Visitation will be held Thursday, May 22, 2014 from 3 p.m. until 10 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Funeral services will be Friday, May 23, 2014 at 2 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Whitaker Cemetery in DeRidder, La. Rev. Kevin Coward and Rev. Charlie Williams will officiate. 

Bertha Bailey 
Bertha Bailey at the age of 73 passed from this world to God's heavenly one on Friday, Dec. 28, 2013 at 2:55 p.m. She was the beloved mother of six children, Edward Lee Painter of DeRidder, La., James Lonnie Ferrin Painter and wife Deborah of Amelia, Va., Sheila Ann Martin of Chester, Va., Sherry Eileen Bernnett and husband Joe of Mechanicsville, Va., and Amy Oleta Joan Cranor of DeRidder, La., beloved wife to L.C. Bailey and beloved grandmother. She is also survived by her sisters, Lucille Griffin of Singer, La and Ethel Hall of ?Anacoco, La.; 10 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren. Bertha Bailey is preceded in death by her husband, L.C. Bailey; parents, Rier and Amy Pollard; grandson, Ricky Keel. Bertha Bailey also loved like a daughter of her own, Linda Keel and her three daughters as grandchildren, Kristen Keel, Natosha and Sabrina Roberts. She adored her grandson Jonathan Dunn's wife Tina Dunn as a granddaughter too. A very special thanks go out to all these generous women who became her care givers just like her daughter Amy Cranor. The family would also like to mention her grandson, Ricky Keel, who supported her needs and loved her until his untimely passing in 2012. Our mother and granny loved to sit at the table to tell stories of old', watch the birds chirp and sing, play card games and enjoy family gatherings. Birdie, as so many knew her by, loved to open her bible to be close to our Lord and study His world with her family and friends. Granny had a special talent given by God. For which we all enjoyed the song of her spirit sung for us. She always sang on our birthdays, old hymns and in her younger days she sang on stage. She will be missed by all for there were no strangers in her life. All came to love her as their own granny.?The family appreciates all thoughts and prayers.
Visitation will be held on Monday, Dec. 30, 2013 and Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2013 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Funeral services will be held Thursday, Jan. 2, 2014 at 2 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Whitaker Cemetery in DeRidder, La. Bro. Al Gist and Bro. Buddy Freeman will officiate. 

Wanda Lee Bailey
A graveside service for Wanda Lee Bailey, 74, of Sugartown, La., was held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 24, 2014, at Sugartown Cemetery under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La., with the Rev. Alfred Kennedy officiating. Mrs. Bailey passed from this life on Sunday, June 22, 2014, in Alexandria, La.
Visitation was held Tuesday, June 24, 2014, at Sugartown Cemetery, 10 a.m. until the time of the service.
Wanda was born on Wednesday, November 8, 1939, at Kinder, La. She lived in Sugartown for the past 25 years. She was a newspaper deliverer for the Beauregard Dailey News and she was the KPLC weather watcher representing Sugartown for many years. She loved animals. Wanda was a wonderful person, wife mother, grandmother.
She is survived by her husband, Allen James Bailey of Sugartown, La.; two sons, Mack Wayne Sliman of Pine Prairie, La., and Fredrick Charles Sliman of DeRidder, La.; one daughter, Ramona Austin of Beaumont, Texas; two grandchildren, Kayla Rose Simmons and Fallon Elizabeth Sliman. 

Louise M. Bell
Louise M. Bell, 87 of La Junta, Colo., passed away on Feb. 2, 2014 at Fowler Nursing Home, in Fowler, Colo.
Louise was born in DeRidder, La., on Aug. 21, 1926 to James C. and Nicey Cooley Mc Curley. She was married to Jewell (Buddy) Bell on Sept. 28, 1946, he preceded her in death on July 10, 1973. Louise attended school in DeRidder, she and Buddy moved to Westlake in 1969 where she purchased a beauty salon and worked as a beautician until retiring at age 70. Louise was a devout Christian that loved serving the Lord in so many ways. She loved traveling with family and friends including a trip to the Holy Land and a cruise to Mexico. Louise had a deep love of quilting, loved spending time with family and friends. She made a lasting impression on anyone who was fortunate enough to know her. Louise was a very loving and giving servant of the Lord. Louise will be truly missed by all but she is rejoicing in heaven now.
Louise is survived by her daughters Edith (Ken) Miller of Colorado City, Colo., and Melba (Dale) Schultz of La Junta, Colo., ; grandchildren, Ginger (Kenneth) Williams, Cameo Fontenot (Timothy Watson) of Texas City, Texas, Jon (Perla) Miller of San Antonio, Texas, Lori (Chris) Johnson of Colorado City, Colo., James (Stacey) Fontenot of Bossier City, La., Chad (Tiffany) Fontenot of Lake Charles, La.; great grandchildren, Tre' Fontenot, Lauren Miller, Kaytlon Williams, Shayne Watson, Heaven Watson, Autumn Harris, Ashton Fontenot, Christian Fontenot, Sebastian Espinoza and Ryver Fontenot; brothers, O R Mc Curley of Westlake, La., and R J Mc Curley of DeRidder, La along with many loving nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by her parents, sisters Jewel Hickman, Lena Rainwater, Mae Miller, Vina Blackmon, Velma Farris, Laura Mc Collough; brothers Bennie Mc Curley, Barney Mc Curley, Hildred Mc Curley and Kenneth Mc Curley; one grandson and two great granddaughters.
There will be a memorial service at Texas Avenue Baptist Church, 401 N. Texas St., DeRidder, La., on Saturday Feb. 15, 2014 at 2:30 p.m. 

James David Bennett
Jim Bennett, 53, transitioned from this life to life everlasting on Feb. 28, 2014 in DeRidder, La. Jim, a native of DeRidder, living in Merryville, is survived by his daughter, April Rhenja, and grandson, Amir, of Orlando, Fla.; three siblings: Janice Vinyard, Becky Hammerschmidt, and Robert Bennett, all of DeRidder, and a host of nephews, nieces, and special aunts and uncles. James is preceded in death by his parents, R.A. (Jack) Bennett, Jr. and Ruby. Jim cherished the friendships he made from a lifetime of experiences hunting, fishing, diving, boating, playing music, and cooking for others.
A memorial service to celebrate his transition will be held at the Merryville Methodist Church on Monday, March 3, 2014 at 4 p.m., with visitation beginning at 3 p.m. The Rev. Rick Watson and Rev. Wayne Evans will officiate.
Arrangements are under the direction of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. 

Martha Bennett
Martha Ann Bennett, 64, of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Monday, May 19, 2014 in Rosepine, La. Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Tommy Bennett of DeRidder, La.; sons, Chad Joseph Hollie and wife Linda of Scott, La., Brandon Shane Hollie of Lake Charles, La.; daughters, Annette Marie Lewis-Hollie and wife Autumn of San Antonio, Texas, Jessica Ann Hollie of DeRidder, La., and Sherell Denise Parker and husband Paul of DeQuincy; brothers, Paul, Freddie, Herman and Hershel Robinson, all of Crowley, La.; sisters, Dorothy Billiot and Wanda Jennings both of Rayne, La.; 18 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Helen Robinson; and two brothers.
Visitation and funeral services were held Tuesday, May 20, 2014 at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. 

Patricia Hanchey Berry
A funeral service for Patricia Hanchey "Pat" Berry, 77, will be held on Monday, June 16, 2014 at First United Methodist Church in Leesville at 2 p.m.  Visitation will begin at noon at the church. 
Pat passed away on Thursday, June 12, 2014. 
Burial will follow in the Beauregard Cemetery in DeRidder under the direction of Jeane's Funeral Service of Leesville.
Pat was born on January 21, 1937 at her grandparents' house, Frank and Emma Genius, in Kinder. She spent her younger years in Oberlin and Kinder. She attended and graduated from LaGrange High School, Lake Charles in 1955, where she was a Gatorette.  She attended McNeese State University in Lake Charles.
Pat was an avid reader and loved cooking.  She would spend time reading her large collection of cookbooks and trying the new recipes.  Pat adored her family, especially her grandkids and great-grandson.  She assisted her husband, Dick, in founding the Leesville High School Alumni Association and stayed active in assisting with duties of the association.  She was behind the development of the Alumni-by-Choice "ABC" membership designation.  She and Dick were instrumental in growing the association and coordinating the annual alumni homecoming activities.
Pat was a devoted bridge player and enjoyed her many afternoons with her bridge club and partners Barbara Cox, Tresa Abramson, Jean Beavers, Linda Harris, Bonnie Hicks, Johnnie Mae Palmer, Susie Neubert, Pat Martinez, Margaret Rachal, Jan Scoles, Martha Rankin, Cliff and Claire Boudreaux, and all the other ladies she enjoyed playing bridge with over the years.
Pat was preceded in death by her husband, Richard West "Dick" Berry, Sr.; her son, Richard W. "Dicky" Berry Jr.; parents, James Aswell, "Pat" Hanchey and Wynonah Genius Hanchey.
She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Lisa and Greg "Frank" Franklin of Anacoco; stepdaughter and husband, Denise and Eddie Esserman of St. Simon Island, Georgia; and son and daughter-in-law, Jimmy and Marty Berry of Lake Charles; granddaughter Tiffany Franklin Koch and husband Nathan; step-granddaughter Hanna Esserman; grandsons James and Matthew Berry; great-grandson, Koa Koch;  her siblings and their spouses, Randall and Charlene Hanchey, Judy Hanchey, Penny and Henry Bauer, Stephen Hanchey, and Candy and Drexel Meadors; and her dear friends, Tina "Teeny" and Ikey Davidson and Jean Beavers.
Pallbearers will be James Berry, Matthew Berry, James Armes, Ricky Ross, Elvin Fontenot and Greg Stracener. 

Frank Boggs
Frank Boggs Sr., 99, of Sugartown, passed away in a DeRidder care facility on June 6, 2014. He was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Joy Manning Boggs.
He survived by one son Frank Boggs, Jr. and wife Lynne of Sugartown, one sister, Gertrude Boggs Brunson of Lake Charles; and two grandchildren, David Boggs and wife Karli of Baton Rouge, and Laura Boggs of Jennings.
He was a veteran of WW2, a cattleman, and worked at Crosby Chemicals in DeRidder, and did power line construction work for over thirty years.
Visitation will be held Sunday, June 8, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. and Monday, June 9, 2014 beginning at 9 a.m. until time of funeral service at 10 a.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder. Burial will follow in Shiloh Cemetery in the East Beauregard Community. Bro. Ford will officiate. 

Benjamin Borel
Benjamin Joseph Borel, 30, of Rosepine, LA, passed from this life on Wednesday, June 4, 2014 in Dallas, TX. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Amber Chancey Borel of Dry Creek, LA; son, Rylan Joseph Borel of Dry Creek, LA; mother, Gwendolyn Whiddon Borel of Rosepine, LA; father, John Borel Sr. of New Llano, LA; brothers, John Paul Borel Jr. of New Llano, LA, and William "Bick" Borel of Egan, LA; grandmothers, Bobbie Whiddon of Rosepine, LA, and Billie Borel of Leesville, LA; nephew, Keith Borel; niece, Chloe Borel; a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, John Roy Whiddon, and Stanley Joseph Borel, Sr. Visitation will be held Friday, June 6, 2014 from 5:00pm until 9:00pm at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, LA. Funeral services are Saturday, June 7, 2014 at 10:00am at Dry Creek Baptist Church in Dry Creek, LA. Burial will follow at Rosepine Cemetery in Rosepine, LA. Rev. Charlie Bailey will officiate.

Betty Bowlin
Betty Sue Mason Bowlin, 67, of Merryville, passed from this life on Monday, June 9, 2014. Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Murlin Bowlin of Merryville; brother, Bobby L. Mason and wife Kathy of Merryville; sister-in-law, Sybile Presswood and husband Albert of Willis, Texas; a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Rev. Elzie and Alberta Mason. The family would like to thank Merryville Nursing Center and Amedisys Hospice of Lake Charles. Visitation will be held Wednesday, June 11, 2014 at First United Pentecostal Church in Merryville. Funeral services will be Thursday, June 12, 2014 at 10 a.m. at First United Pentecostal Church in Merryville. Burial will follow at Merryville Cemetery in Merryville. Bro. Frank Kendall and Rev. Gerald Read will officiate. 

Winfred Brister
Winfred Riley Brister, 67, of Rosepine, La., passed away at his home peacefully on Jan. 3, 2014. Winfred was born Aug. 8, 1946 in DeRidder, La., to the late Riley and Audrey Brister. During his life, Winfred coached children's football and was a big fan of the New Orleans Saints. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing and arrowhead recovery.
He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Patsy McCloud. Left to cherish memories of Winfred will be his wife Gayla Brister of Rosepine, La.; son, Kevin Brister of Rosepine, La.; daughter, Vickie Strother of Rosepine, La.; brothers, Scottie Brister, Stanley Brister, James Brister; grandchildren, Candace and Mark Cain, and a wonderful host of extended family and friends.
The Brister family will welcome guests for visitation Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2014 from 5-9 p.m. at Hixson Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Bro. Charles Best and Deacon Guy T. Lewis will be officiating celebration of life services on Wednesday, Jan.8, 2014 at 11 a.m. in the chapel of Hixson Funeral Home. A funeral procession will lead family and friends to the grounds of Whitaker Cemetery in DeRidder, La. 

Gordon Brown
Funeral services for Gordon L. Brown, 88, of DeRidder were held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 12, in the Labby Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in DeRidder with Rev. Johnny Johnson officiating. Burial followed in the Barentine Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder.
Visitation was Tuesday, August 12, from 8 a.m. until service time in the funeral home.
Mr. Brown was born to George & Ellie Westmoreland Brown, a pioneer family in Leesville, La. He was a 1943 graduate of Leesville High School. After high school he served in the U.S. Army from November 1950 until August 1952, during the Korean War. Mr. Brown retired from the Trunkline Gas Company. He was a cattle and soybean farmer and former member of the Beauregard Cattlemen's association, and the Beauregard Parish Farm Bureau. He was the owner and sole proprietor of BCF Services, a Forestry Service Company. He was also the owner and operator of DeRidder Sewing Machine Company, and was a 42 year member of the Star of Magnolia Masonic Lodge #238.
He served on the Beauregard Parish School Board from January 1965 through December 1970, and served as Vice President of the Board from January 1967 till December 1968. He was the individual who was most instrumental in the creation and building of the South Beauregard High School. The vision for that school occurred during his tenure on the school board.
Mr. Brown was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Bettye Louise Barentine Brown, and his beloved son, Gordon Brian Brown.
He is survived by his two daughters: Gayle Pittman and husband Glynn of Collinsville, Ms., and Beth Franklin and husband Gary of Lampasas, Texas; six Grandchildren; two great-grandchildren. 

Jonathan Brown
Jonathan Mark Brown, 52, of Singer, La., passed from this life on Thursday, March 27, 2014 at his home. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Katherine Brown of Singer, La.; daughters, Amber Miers and husband Cody of Singer, La., Samantha Brown of Westlake, La., and Katie Hayes of Singer, La.; sons, Jacob Hayes and Alan Hayes of Singer, La.; mother, Joy Brown of DeQuincy, La.; brothers, Paul Brown and wife Michelle of Longville, La., and Bryan Brown and wife Carmel of DeQuincy, La.; sister, Leah Weaver and husband John of DeQuincy, La.; grandchildren, Dalton Perkins, Matthew Miers and Carter Miers. He was preceded in death by his father, John Brown.
Visitation will be held on Friday, March 28, 2014 from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. at Singer Pentecostal Church in Singer, La. Funeral services will be Saturday, March 29, 2014 at 10 a.m. at Singer Pentecostal Church. Burial will follow at Perkins Chapel Cemetery in Moss Bluff, La. Rev. Donnis Ashworth will officiate. Services are under the direction of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. 

Laurelle Brown
Laurelle Thelia Chancellor Brown died on Sunday Aug. 10, 2014, in a local nursing home at the age of 94. She was born in Cooper, Texas, Feb. 15, 1920, to Walter Eugene and Daisy Chancellor. She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Luther Harrison Brown, on April 21, 1998. She is survived by three children: William Randall Brown, M.D., and wife Rebecca of Texarkana, Texas; Robert Neal Brown, M.D., and wife Carla, of Lake Charles, Louisiana; and Joanne Brown LeDoux, and husband Milton, of Fort Worth, Texas. She is also survived by two brothers: Don David Chancellor of Dallas, Texas, and Warren Chancellor of Georgetown, Texas. Additional survivors include her six grandchildren: Brannon Brown, Ryan Brown, Jessica Brown Temple, Eric Brown, Katie Brown Williams, John David King, and 5 great grandchildren: William Paul Brown, Caroline Massey Temple, Emily Williams, Anna Williams, and Emery King.
In their early married years, Luther and Laurelle lived in Cooper, Texas, where she taught piano. They moved to DeRidder, Louisiana, in 1953 where they both served in the fields of education and music ministry through First Baptist Church. After retirement in 1994 they moved to Texarkana and continued active participation in the varied ministries of First Baptist Church. Laurelle was gifted musically and shared her talents and skills throughout her long and happy life. She taught Bible and music for most her days and ministered diligently to her family and friends as long as she was able. She will be remembered for her love of life and her Lord, her positive outlook, her encouraging words and acts of kindness, and her triumphant spirit. She was a painter, gardener, seamstress, and fabulous cook, having the ability to serve up a home-cooked meal with an hour's notice. She loved to travel, read, and work crossword puzzles, and maintained a keen interest in national politics. Even in her advanced years, she embraced all of the new communication technologies.
Visitation for family and friends was from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 12, at East Funeral Home at 2807 Moores Lane in Texarkana, Texas. Graveside services will be conducted at Hillcrest Cemetery on Wednesday, Aug. 13, at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Kevin Myers and Dr. Terry Land officiating, under the direction of East Funeral Home - Moores Lane. 

Zandra Brown
Service for Zandra Kay Brown, 44, of Covington will be conducted at 10:00 A.M., Monday, June 23, 2014 in the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne chapel. Visitation will be from 6-8:00 P.M., Sunday, at the funeral home.
Zandra Kay Brown passed away Tuesday, June 17, 2014 in Ft. Worth. She was born July 17, 1969 in Monroe, Michigan to Clifford Farrell and Kathleen Joan Combs Monday. She married David Alan Brown of Merryville, Louisiana on May 1, 1992.
Mrs. Brown was a homemaker and a loving wife and mother. She loved fishing and cooking, especially crawfish boils and grilling. She was an avid horror movie and novel fan. Her outgoing personality and love for life will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
Survivors include her husband, David Brown; father, Clifford Farrell Monday and step-mother, Hattie Monday; children, Krista Kathleen Monday and Chad Alan William Brown; grandson, Billy Calahan; brothers, Shonn Monday of Ware, Mass. and Michael Chad Monday of Ft. Gibson, OK; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her mother, Kathleen Joan Wiseman. 

Mandy Bryant
Funeral service for Mandy Bryant, 58, of Rosepine, La., will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, July 4, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La. Burial will follow at Lewis Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La. Mandy died on Monday, June 30, 2014, at Lake Charles, La.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 3, 2014, 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Friday, July 4, 2014, at 9 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home in DeRidder.
Mandy was born on Friday, February 17, 1956, to Joseph and Nora Fuller Bettis at San Antonio, Texas. She lived in the DeRidder area most of her life. She managed Dairy Queen in DeRidder for many years and was also employed by Paige Lee Insurance before her retirement. She was of the Baptist faith.
She is survived by two sons, Robert Bryant and wife Melissa of Ragley, La., and George Bryant, II, and fiancee' Therasa Hebert of Leesville, La.; one daughter, Tiffany Kirklin and husband James of Kinder, La.; six brothers, Leslie Bettis, Sr. and wife Elaine, Robert Bettis, Howard Bettis, Richard Morgan, Eddie Bettis and Teddie Bettis, all of San Antonio, Texas; one sister, Wilma Coble of San Antonio, Texas; 20 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Mandy is preceded in death by her husband, George M. Bryant, I and her parents. 

Harry H. Burns, Jr.
Funeral services for Elder Harry H. Burns, Jr., 88 of Grayson, La., will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2014, at Shiloh Primitive Baptist Church of Rosepine, LA with Bro. Lloyd Smith officiating. Burial will follow at the Central LA Veterans Cemetery, Fort Polk, La., under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder.
Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m., Monday, Jan. 13, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La.
Mr. Burns was born on Friday, June 19, 1925, in Pelly, Texas, to Harry Burns, Sr. and Alice Ashley Burns.  He proudly served in the United States Navy during WWII. On Feb. 15, 1947, he married Elaine Smith.  He was a dairyman and later became a pastor of Mt. Pleasant Primitive Baptist Church in Grayson, La., where he served for the past 50 years. Elder Burns passed from this life on Friday, Jan. 10, 2014 at DeRidder, La.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Elaine Smith Burns of Grayson, La.; one son, Eugene Burns and wife Jan of DeRidder, La.; three daughters, Judy Hicks of Winslow, Ark., Brenda Isabella of Bossier City, La., and Elizabeth Johnson of DeRidder, La.; one brother, Wayne Burns of Big Fork, Ark.; four sisters, Barbara Vachula of Catto Gap, Ark., Miriam Brister of Mt. Ida, Ark., Alice Strange of DeVille, La., and Verna Ray of Rosepine, La.; 11 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and two great, great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Ruben Burns. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to McGee Mt. Rose Cemetery, c/o Susan Robinson, 2501 Hwy 126E, Grayson, LA 71435

Charles Cain
Charles Cain, 43, of Lafayette, La., passed from this life on Sunday, Feb. 16, 2014 at his home.
Those left to cherish his memory are his son, Charles Caleb Cain of Lafayette, LA; daughter, Christine Elizabeth Swain of Evans, LA; brother, Mark Cain of Baton Rouge, La.; sisters, Debra Clemmons and husband Doug of Pickering, La., and Rhonda Kay Clayton and husband Mike of Prosperity, SC. He was preceded in death by his son, Christopher Cain, and parents, Charles and Norma Cain.
Arrangements were under the direction of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. 

Ralph Calhoun
Funeral service for Ralph L. Calhoun, 89, of Longville, La., will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, March 21, 2014, at Memorial Baptist Church with the Rev. Mark Norwood officiating. Burial will follow in Barentine Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 20, 2014, 5:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder and Friday, 12:30 p.m. until the service at the church.
Ralph was born on Monday, Dec. 8, 1924, to Joseph Mitchell and Dorothey Legg Calhoun at Slagle, La. He grew up in Hornbeck, La., where graduated from High School. He proudly served in the United States Navy as an aircraft mechanic. Ralph was a member and deacon of Memorial Baptist Church in Longville and he was the worship leader of music. Ralph was an exceptional musician, singer and he loved wood crafting. He was a Boy Scout leader in the Longville area for many years and retired from Mobil Oil Company where he was an operator for 32 years.
Ralph is survived by his wife of 65 years, Faye Ellis Calhoun of Longville, La.; son, Dudley Calhoun and wife Dee of Emory, Texas; two daughters, Sharon Smith and husband Bill of Longville, La., and Sandra "Sam" Armer and husband Ronald of Carlyss, La.; seven grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren and one great, great, grandson.
He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Mitchell Kevin Calhoun, daughter, Cindy Lou Calhoun and a sister, Willavee Dean. 

Mary Canik
Mary Jo Ann Mangano Canik, 72, of Lake Charles, La., died at 9:54 p.m. on Wednesday, July 9, 2014 in her residence.
Mrs. Canik was born December 17, 1941 in DeRidder, La., where she was a graduate of DeRidder High School. She attended LSU and graduated from McNeese State University, where she received her Master's + 30 in Education. Throughout her career, she taught at DeRidder, Grand Chenier Elementary, Creole Elementary and at South Cameron High School. Mrs. Canik was a past member of St. Eugene Catholic Church and a member of Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, where she served on the Lady's Altar Society. She also participated in missions that brought her to Nicaragua and to the Holy Land. She was a member of Beta Sigma Phi, the Lake Charles Enterprise Club, and the Retired Teachers Association and served on the Board for the Lake Charles Symphony and the Lake Charles Little Theatre. Mrs. Canik also served as a volunteer on the Louisiana High School Rodeo Boosters Club and played in a poker group and a Mah Jongg group. Later in life, she enjoyed volunteering her time at Women and Children's Hospital, the Women's Shelter and Cross Roads Book Store. Mary Jo was a caregiver by nature, taking care of many family members and loved ones throughout the years. She always put her family first and was willing to sacrifice herself and her time for those she loved. She also enjoyed cooking and spending Sunday afternoons with her family.
Mrs. Canik is survived by her children, Stephen Canik and wife Erin of Lake Charles, LA, John Canik and wife Mary of Creole, La., Paul Canik and Shelly Trahan of Grand Chenier, La., and Jennifer Canik and Wes Smith of Midland, Texas; brother, John Mangano and wife Rose of Baton Rouge, La.; grandchildren, Kaylee Livingston and husband Brett, Lexie Canik and Jodi Trasclair, Taylor Canik and Kyle LeBouef, Skylar Canik, Madalyn Gordon, Cole-Jackson Canik, Tucker-Gage Canik, Christopher Trahan and Clay Trahan; great-grandchild, C'Lee Livingston; and her special friend, Judd McCann of Lake Charles.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Orrie Canik; and parents, John Thomas and Mary Jane Stoma Mangano.
Her funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 12, 2014 at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church. Father John Huckaby will officiate. Burial will follow in Consolata Cemetery. Visitation will be Johnson Funeral Home on Friday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a rosary at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will continue on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12:40 p.m. 

Valerie Carpenter
Valerie Smith Sewell Carpenter, 46 of DeRidder, La., passed away at Cabrini Hospital on Jan. 10, 2014. Valerie was born in Zwolle, La., on Feb. 15, 1967. Parents Ruth M. Nyberg and the late Louis Smith of Many, La.
Val was a vivacious woman and full of life. She owned and operated First class travel Agency of DeRidder. She loved working with people and sharing stories of family and friends. She most enjoyed fishing and working with animals. Left to cherish memories of Val will be her mother, Husband Clifford Carpenter of Dry Creek, La. Daughter Tiffanie Thompson and husband Jeremy of Birmingham, Ala. Her sons; Mitchell and Steven Sewell of DeRidder, La. Sister Leisha Smith, brother Maxwell Smith and wife Lenora along with nieces Jessika Chaconus, Samantha Chaconus, Zalee Day and nephew McKinley Day. She also leaves behind a wonderful host of extended family and friends.
The family welcomed guests for visitation Monday, Jan. 13, 2014 from 4-8 at Hixson Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. A funeral service celebrating her life followed Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2014 at 1 p.m. in the chapel at Hixson Funeral Home. Internment was on the grounds of Ebenezer Cemetery in Florien, La. Bro. DeWayne Unruh and Bro. Wayne Lattwiller officiated. 

Geraldine Chadwick
Geraldine Ella Chadwick, 62, of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2014. Geraldine was a graduate of Leesville High School, Upper Iowa University and Army Management Staff College. She retired after over 27 1/2 year of dedicated service to the soldiers at Ft. Polk.
Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Stephen Chadwick of DeRidder, La.; son, David Anthony and wife Lisa of Anacoco, La.; daughter, Gidget Anthony of Plano, Texas; brothers, George Boswell and wife Sharon of Florien, La., and Randy Boswell and wife Reitha of Leesville, La.; sisters, Shirley Straight of Simpson, La., and Carolyn Miller and husband Richard of Leesville, LA; grandchildren, Nathan, Daphne, Brittany and Austin. She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Lucille Boswell.
Visitation will be held Friday, Jan. 3, 2014 from 5:30 until 8:30 at a Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, LA. Funeral services will be held Saturday, Jan. 4, 2014 at 10 a.m. at Westview Baptist Church in DeRidder, La. Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Hicks, La. Bro. Jason Hoychick will officiate. 

Norman C. Chafin
Norman C. Chafin, 76, of DeRidder, La., entered eternal peace on Feb. 23, 2014 in Lake Charles, La. A memorial service was held Feb. 25, 2014 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Hixson Funeral Home in DeRidder, La.
Mr. Norman was a retired Alaskan state trooper, a retired boat captain, advice diver and former owner and instructor at Dive Toledo Shoppe, enjoyed boating and fishing, and spending time with his family.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Nona Chafin; son, Norman Layne Chafin; and parents, Morris Chafin and Ruth Chafin Conn.
Those left to cherish his memory and mourn his loss are his wife of 13 years, Brigitte Chafin of DeRidder, La.; son, Norman Alan Chafin and wife Cindy of Lake Charles, La.; stepson, Captain Kenneth D. LeBlanc of Wiesbaden, Germany; three grandchildren, LaBraja Hodges and husband Dan, Ashley LeJeune, and Amanda LeBlanc and husband Jeremy; and six great grandchildren. 

Thelma Clark
Thelma Clark, age 97, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday February 19, 2014.
Ms. Clark was a lifelong devoted member of the Gospel Lighthouse Pentecostal Church. She loved to cook and was dedicated to reading her bible daily.
Ms. Clark was preceded in death by her husband; Ernst Clark, parents; Crocket Johnson and Daisy Covington, 2 daughters; Margaret Eason and Betty Russ, 2 brothers; Jesse and Elmo Johnson, sister; Geneva Doyle.
Survived by son; Billy Johnson of DeRidder, 10 grandchildren; William Russ, Jeanita Tobin, Tina Jenkins, Robert Johnson, Anthony Eason, Gary Eason, Brenda Tweedel, Donna Foshee, Lora Carrero and Angela Hargrove. 21 Great Grandchildren and 17 Great Great Grandchildren.
Funeral Services will be conducted Saturday February 22, 2014, at 2 pm from the chapel of Hixson Funeral Home in DeRidder, LA with Bro. Ed Tilley officiating. Interment to follow at Gravel Hill Cemetery in Pitkin, LA.
Family will receive friends on Friday from 6 – 9 pm. 

Harold Clouse
Harold John Clouse, Jr., 47, of Dry Creek passed through the veil to join his Savior on Saturday, May 31, 2014. At the time of his passing he was surrounded by family and friends in his home. His heroic battle with cancer the past three years has been a witness to all of those around him of his faith in Christ and love for his family.
Harold was born on Saturday, February 4, 1967, to Harold & Rebecca Lanier Clouse in DeRidder, La. Harold graduated from McNeese University with the major in Criminal Justice and began a career in law enforcement that lasted over twenty years. He began his career with the Jefferson County Sheriff Department in Beaumont, Texas, where he served as a Sergeant in the county jail for 10 years. He completed his career as a Probation Officer with Beauregard Parish.
The legacy he leaves behind includes his wife of almost twenty-five years, Deanna Clouse; his sons, Andrew Clouse, Steven Clouse and wife Aryn, Samuel Clouse and Noah Clouse; 1 granddaughter, Mary Clouse; his mother, Rebecca Lanier Clouse and father, Harold John Clouse, Sr.; brothers, Brad Clouse and wife Ginger and Donald Clouse. He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Bill & Grace Lanier and his paternal grandparents, A.J. and Ann Clouse.
A Graveside Service will be held on Wednesday, June 4, 2014, 2 p.m. at Lewis Cemetery. Ministers officiating will be Revs. John & Sharon Harris. Burial will be at Lewis Cemetery under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 3, 2014, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La.

Evelyn Conerly 
Sister Evelyn Janet Foley Conerly answered God's call on Dec. 28, 2013 at her Daughter (Noel's) home in Myrtle Beach, S.C. Her parents were Sherman and Mable Foley and Vashti Hargrove.
She was baptized at an early age at her home church Starlight Missionary Baptist Church, and Evelyn attended First Assembly of God.
Evelyn was saved. She loved the Lord, and through knowing him she continued to try. Her love was silent, but never unnoticed. She was stubborn, but she was also funny, smart, caring and very giving. Evelyn was full of strength and courage. She enjoyed cooking, and although she had many delicious family recipes, she became obsessed with serving us her famous chicken backs. She also enjoyed gardening and reading. She drove us crazy watching her favorite show "Law and Order." Evelyn's beloved line was "I am the mother!" Evelyn was a mother and a friend.
She was preceded in death by her parents Sherman and Mable Foley and Vasthi Hargrove. Her son Henry "Tony" Wilkerson.
Cherishing her memories are her children Shonda (Robert) Benoit of Lawton, Okla.; Deirdre Denise Foley of Cibolo, Texas; Noel Gaskin of Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Her siblings are: Jerome Coleman of Ontario, CA; Lionel Coleman of Grand Terrace, CA; Timothy ( Joyce ) Leger; Linda ( Franklin) Simon; Eloyce ( Levi ) Johnson all of DeRidder, La. Nine grandchildren: Sherman, Aloysius, Brelin, Mark-Antony, Alexandria, Adrian, Brittany, Tevin, and Michael. Two great-grandchildren: Josiah and Jaden.
Nephews: Jerome (Aronda), Marcus (Stacey) and Andrew; Nieces: Charmain and Demetria.
Great-nephew: DiMichael, and Zane. Great-nieces: Brittany, Sidney, Summer, Ayanna and Jenna; and a host of other relatives and friends
Her arrangements were made by Myrtle Beach Funeral Home and Cremation,
4505 Highway 17, Myrtle Beach, SC 25077. The Memorial will be held
January 18, 2013 2:30 at Starlight Missionary Baptist Church, 303 Martin Luther King Dr., DeRidder, LA 

James Cooley
James "Jim" Gervais Cooley, 88, a native of DeRidder and resident of Thibodaux, passed away at 4 a.m. Monday, June 16, 2014 at The Carpenter House in Baton Rouge.
The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until funeral time Friday at First Baptist Church at 1021 Canal Blvd. in Thibodaux. Funeral services to celebrate his life will be at noon Friday at the church, with burial in St. Joseph Cemetery in Thibodaux.
He is survived by his son, Kerry L. Cooley; brother, John Wayne Cooley; nephews, Kenneth Glen Cooley and wife, Carol McConathy Cooley, and Klayton Duane Cooley; niece, Kelsey Nicole Cooley; step-granddaughter, Lyndsay McDonough; and step-grandson, Clayton McDonough.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Elaine Leach Cooley; and parents, James Patterson Cooley and Camilla Gunter Cooley,
James was a U.S. Navy veteran, a long-time manager of West Brothers Department Store in Thibodaux, and a founding member of Acadian Bank, present day Regions Bank. He was a member and past president of Thibodaux Rotary Club, member and past president of Thibodaux High School Tiger Club, member and past President of Thibodaux Chamber of Commerce, and Deacon Emeritus of First Baptist Church in Thibodaux.
Special thanks goes to the staff of St. Joseph Manor in Thibodaux, Heritage Manor of Baton Rouge, and St. Joseph Hospice The Carpenter House in Baton Rouge.
Landry's Funeral Home in Thibodaux is in charge of arrangements. 

Jerry Cooley, Jr,
Jerry Jean Cooley, Jr., 54, of Merryville, La., passed from this life on Sunday, March 23, 2014 in New Orleans, La. Jerry was a committed public servant, having served on police forces in Natchitoches and Jennings, La. Those left to cherish his memory are his son, Eric Leigh Cooley of Ft. Worth, Texas; daughters, Taylor Renee Cooley of College Station, Texas, and Lannie Marie Cooley of Natchitoches, LA; parents, Shirley and Jerry Cooley, Sr. of Merryville, La.; brothers, Larry Cooley and wife Tammie of Merryville, La., and Paul Cooley and wife O.J. of DeRidder, La.
Visitation was held Tuesday, March 25, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, March 26, 2014 at 10 a.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Meadows Cemetery in Merryville, La. Bro. Lyndon Longoria will officiate.

Nellie Pearl Cooley
Nellie Pearl (Akin) Cooley, 88, went to meet her Lord and Savior on Sunday morning, surrounded by her loving family.
Funeral services for Nellie will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2014, at Friendship Baptist Church, located at 1300 La. 26, DeRidder, La., at 2 p.m. Visitation began on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2014, from 5-9 p.m. and will continue Wednesday at 9 a.m. at the church under the direction of Chaddick Funeral Home. The Rev. A.F. Ott and the Rev. Joe Pool will officiate.
Nellie was a homemaker as well as a sales clerk for Jouban's, West Bros., Walmart and the fabric shop. She was best known for her loving kindness towards others as well as her delicious fried chicken, dumplings and banana pudding.
Those left to cherish her memory are two sons and four daughters: O.J., Jr. and Jolene Cooley of DeRidder; Johnny and Carla Cooley of Sulphur, La.; Lorraine and Bobby Loftin of Sherman, Texas; Linda and C.W. Caraway of DeRidder; Joan and Dan Batchelor of Lake Charles, La.; Annette and David Bailey of Haughton, La. She had 13 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren that loved her very much.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Officer Jack Cooley, Sr.; parents John and Ida (Johnson) Akin; brother John W. Akin; sister Flo Akin; and five infant siblings.
On behalf of the family, "a special thanks" to her caregivers: Mrs. Goldie, Mrs. Natalie and Mrs. Lillie as well as Westwood Manor staff for their passionate care. Also to Beauregard Memorial Hospital ER and second floor nursing staff. And to the Smyrna Sunday school class for their weekly cards of encouragement. Thanks to everyone for your prayers. 

Deborah Rose Cornwell
Deborah Rose Cornwell, 61, of Baton Rouge, La., peacefully passed away in the presence of her loved ones on Friday, Feb. 7, 2014, due to a sudden illness at Our Lady of the Lake Hospital.
She was born to Lynn and Arlene Cornwell on Nov. 25, 1952 in Shreveport, La. Deborah graduated from Singer High School in 1970. Deborah later attended business school in Shreveport, La., before beginning her career as a secretary.
She met the love of her life, Malcolm "Butch" Kurz in 2001 while walking her dog in Lake Charles. Every beat of her heart for the past 13 years was spent loving Butch and pets. Deborah had a nurturing soul and spent every moment of her life expressing her love for those she held close.
She is survived by husband, Malcolm "Butch" Kurz; mother, Arlene Cornwell of Merryville, La..; sisters, Linda Miers and husband Thomas of DeRidder, La., Patsy Sellers and husband Don of Franklin, Tenn., and Candice Rucker and husband Chris of Hackberry, La.; brothers, Bobby Cornwell of DeRidder, La., David Cornwell and Mary of Merryville, La., and Curtis Cornwell and Julia of Merryville, La.; step-children, Wendy Mills and husband David of Spring, Texas.; grandchildren, Kailee and Logon Mills; and nine nieces and eight nephews.
Deborah is preceded in death by her father, Lynn Cornwell; and brother; Richard Craig Cornwell.
Visitation was held at Resthaven Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge, La., 70816 on Feb. 9, 2014 from 10 a.m. until services began at 2 p.m. "Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day, unseen, unheard, but always near, Still loved, still missed, and very dear." 

Deena Cote
Deena Cote, 66, of DeRidder, passed away Thursday, July 24, 2014 at her home. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Aug. 2, 2014 at 10 a.m. at Chaddick Funeral Home. She is survived by her husband, David Cote of DeRidder; daughter, Erika McGrath of DeRidder; son, Michael Cacek of DeRidder; and grandchildren, Andrew McGrath and Dillon McGrath. 

John James Courtney
John James Courtney, 96, formally of DeRidder, La., died peacefully at the home of his daughter, Tamara Courtney Biggerstaff on Tuesday, July 29, 2014 in Fayetteville, N.C. He moved to Fayetteville upon the death of his wife Edwina Worsham Courtney in 2010. He was also predeceased by his parents, John and Lillie Manchester Courtney, brothers, Ivy, Herbert, and Carl Courtney, sister, Eleanor Courtney Hall, and son-in-law, James H. Bales.
Courtney, born Jan. 19, 1918, was a native of St. Helena Parish Louisiana. He graduated from McKeown High School in Jackson, La., in 1937. Immediately after high school, he worked at Standard Oil (Exxon) in Baton Rouge and also attended and played football at Louisiana State University. He was a World War II veteran, enlisting on Dec. 2, 1941, just days before the bombing of Pearl Harbor. During his enlistment in the US Army Air Corps, he was stationed at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. It was during that time that he was assigned to be the ground crew chief on the ENOLA GAY. He was unaware of her mission; he was told to just make sure she was in pristine condition at all times. He was discharged in 1945 and returned to the States.
He was involved in many different careers during his life. He and his wife owned a dry cleaning business in Mansfield, La. He was in charge of the Quartermaster Laundry at Fort Polk, worked as an insurance agent for The Equitable, was a pipe fitter for Brown and Root, and retired from his position as a millwright at Hercules Plastics in Lake Charles, La., in 1984. As most people know, he was deeply in love with his wife of 67 years and referred to her as "his angel". Other than his girls, sons-in-law, and grandchildren and great-grandchildren, his biggest passion was his beloved LSU TIGERS…no matter what kind of season they had!
He was a lifetime member of American Legion Post 27 in DeRidder, a charter member of the Beauregard Country Club, and a dedicated member of the First United Methodist Church in DeRidder. Being the outgoing person that he was, some of the happiest times in DeRidder were spent as a "Blue Coat," the men's group of the Beauregard Memorial Hospital Auxiliary. He volunteered for over five years and accumulated more than 1,000 volunteer hours. He truly loved greeting people at the front desk!
Mr. Courtney is survived by his daughters, Angel Courtney Bales of Houston, Texas, Tamara Courtney Biggerstaff and husband LTC (ret) Thomas Biggerstaff of Fayetteville, N.C., "adopted" daughter, Dr. W. Lou Shields, of Houston Texas, his "adopted" children Kenneth and Shirley Moore of Pitkin, and his loving sister, Doris Courtney Parish of Greensburg, La. Pappaw is also survived by his grandchildren, Andrea Bales Williams and husband James of College Station, Texas, James Anthony Bales and wife Jennifer of Houston, Texas, Christopher Courtney Biggerstaff and Adam Thomas Biggerstaff of Fayetteville, N.C., great-grandchildren, Caitlin, Makenna, Zachary, and Brandon Williams of College Station, Texas, and many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank caregiver Martha J. Blue, Dr. A. Taiwo and the staff at Cape Fear Senior Health Services, and the Shopton Court Group.
Funeral services will be held at First United Methodist Church in DeRidder at 2 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2014. Visitation will be at First United Methodist Church from 12 noon until the time of the service. The Reverends Wayne Evans and Jimmy Glass will conduct the service. Interment will be at Beauregard Cemetery, with the Reverend Rick Courtney, great-nephew of Mr. Courtney offering words of comfort. Services are under the direction of Labby Funeral Home, DeRidder, La. 

Dorothy Craig
Funeral service for Dorothy "Dot" Lee Craig, 82, of DeRidder, La., will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, April 10, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, LA with Rev. Jimmie Glass and Rev. Roy Lee Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in Beauregard Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La. Dorothy passed from this life on Sunday, April 6, 2014, at her residence.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 9, 2014, 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. and Thursday, 9 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home in DeRidder.
Dorothy was born on March 18, 1932, to Floyd and Rosa Lee Johnson in Kinder, La. She lived most of her life in DeRidder and was the owner and operator of Craig's Tropical Fish Shop. She also worked for Morgan and Lindsey's and Ideal Drug Store. Dorothy was a member of Grace Church in DeRidder. She loved to fish, cook and garden and raised three fine boys.
She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Johnnie Floyd Craig of DeRidder, La.; three sons, Jerry Craig of Huntsville, Ala., Bill Craig and wife Kay of Pensacola, Florida and Johnnie Craig, Jr. of Gillis, La.; two brothers, Jerry Johnson and wife Judy of Sulphur, La., and Richard "Billy" Johnson and wife Georgena of Iowa, La.; one sister, Jo Ann Johnson of Houston, Texas; six grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. 

Laverne Crow
Laverne M. Crow, 86 of Merryville, La., went to be with the Lord Monday, March 24, 2014. Laverne was a retired Nurse at Merryville General Hospital. "Granny's "favorite past times were cooking for all of her grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her late husband, Buddy Neely and Brady Crow; parents, Wiley and Carie Mitchell; sister, Verna Mae Cloessner.
She is survived by her son, Dr. LaRay Davis and his wife Lorna; three daughters, Judy Gale Slaydon, Cheryl D. Arnold, and Geneva Brock; brother, Truitt Mitchell and his wife Linda Jay; 10 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; four great- great grandchildren.
Family will receive friends Friday from 5-9 p.m. Funeral service will be conducted Saturday, March 29, at 10 a.m from the chapel of Hixson Funeral Home with Brother Jason Fortenberry officiating. Interment will follow at Merryville Cemetery. Arrangements by Hixson Funeral Home, DeRidder, La. 

Shirley Jean Davidson
Shirley Jean Davidson, 78, of Wharton, Texas, passed away Monday, Feb. 24, 2014, at a Rosenberg nursing center following a lengthy illness. Shirley was born May 18, 1935, in Merryville, La., to the late Homer and Della Dunn Willett.
Shirley was raised in the Merryville area and graduated from Merryville High School in Louisiana. She married Jack L. Davidson in March 1953. They moved the family to Wharton in 1972. Jack preceded her in death on Nov. 19, 1977. She worked as a bookkeeper for many Wharton business over the years. She enjoyed her grandchildren, gardening, and shopping.
Shirley was Baptist by faith. She was preceded in by her parents and husband.
Shirley is survived by her daughter, Debbie Rose and husband, Jerry of Pensacola, Fla., sons, Larry Davidson and wife, Debbie of East Bernard and Kevin Davidson and wife, Linda of Sugarland, brother, Dalton Willett and wife, Billie of Iowa, La., and grandchildren, Thaddius Davidson and wife, Lisa of East Bernard, Kacie Davidson of Lissie, Leia Davidson of Sugarland and Bobby Wright, III of Dallas, Texas.
Wharton visitation was held on Wednesday Feb. 26, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Wharton Funeral Home. DeRidder visitation was held on Thursday, Feb. 27, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home from 5 until 9 p.m. with the funeral service scheduled for Friday, Feb. 28, at the chapel of Labby Memorial Funeral Home at 2 p.m.
Burial will be in the Cannon Cemetery near Merryville. Funeral services were under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home. 

Bertha Davis
Bertha Davis, 97, of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Monday, Jan. 27, 2014. Those left to cherish her memory are her son, Daniel Archer and wife Linda of DeRidder; daughters, Lee Davis of Tampa, Fla., and Lillie Williams of DeRidder; grandchildren, Greg Archer and wife Pam of DeRidder, Angela Archer of DeRidder, Connie Smith and husband Gary of DeRidder, Judy Hulett and husband Sidney of Sulphur, Randy Archer of Houston, Texas, Brooke Smith and husband Kelly of Palmetto, FL, Shaun Everett and wife Elizabeth of DeRidder, Alex Carpenter of Greenville, SC and Demeris Williams of Sulphur; and 6 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Nelson Edward Davis, and son, Jimmie Archer.
Funeral services will be held Friday, Jan. 31, 2014 at 10 a.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Burial will follow at Lewis Cemetery in DeRidder. Bro. Jay Alexander will officiate. 

Joe Davis
Joe Davis, 53, of Leesville, passed from this life on Monday, June 9, 2014. Joe was owner of Bullet Painting and Joe's Painting Service, both in DeRidder.
Those left to cherish his memory are his sisters, Patricia Ann Styron and husband Ronnie of Hackberry, Olivia Johnson and husband Pete of Rosepine, and Becky Thomas Smith and husband Randy of Cottonwood. He was preceded in death by his father, Tansy Davis; mother, Idell Davis; and brother, Louie Ray Davis.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, June 10, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder. Funeral services will be Wednesday, June 11, 2014 at 11 a.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Ollieville Cemetery in Cottonwood. Rev. Eddie Tilley and Rev. Guy Snyder will officiate. 

Roy Dear
Funeral services for Roy A. "Buck" Dear, 93, were held Tuesday, Sept. 2, at 10 a.m. in the Labby Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in DeRidder with Rev. Roger Gill officiating. Burial followed in Smyrna Cemetery under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Homes in DeRidder.
Roy A. "Buck" Dear was born on Oct. 5, 1920. He went to be with his Lord and Savior on Aug. 30, 2014. He attended Sugartown School. He served in the U S Air Force for a number of years and fought in World War II and the Korean Conflict. After serving his country he held numerous jobs, Lineman for Beauregard Electric, helped build Interstate 10, and was a reserve Deputy for the Beauregard Parish Sheriff Office, the forestry service and as a security guard for Boise. Buck enjoyed farming, reminiscing about his military days and being an American.
He was preceded in death by his parents Berry and Beulah Dear, his loving wife, Pearl Dear, brothers, Wayne, Murray and B. L. Dear
He is survived by his daughter, Linda Johnson and husband Don; three grandkids, Kandi Singleton and husband Damon, Donald Johnson and wife Jody and Jason Johnson and wife Kristy; five great grandchildren, Dyllon Singleton, Chase Singleton, Donald Johnson, Jr., Caleb Johnson and Brady Johnson all of DeRidder; three sisters Irene Cole, Earlene Hutchinson and Nannie Sue McDonald; one brother, Arthur Dear.

Norma Dollries 
Norma Lea Rheams Dollries of Fairview, La., died Friday, Jan. 3, 2014, of natural causes in her home surrounded by love.
Visitation will begin Thursday, Jan. 9, at 3 p.m. with the funeral set for Friday, Jan. 10, 2014, at 2 p.m. All services will be held at Cherry Grove Church in Mittie, La.
Chaddick Funeral Home of DeRidder (337-460-5945) is wonderfully caring for everything. 

Patricia Doyle 
Patricia Ann Doyle of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Wednesday, March 26, 2014. Ann was born on Oct. 1, 1949, in DeRidder to Cecil and Patsy Cunningham Doyle of DeRidder. Ann was a member of First United Pentecostal Church in DeRidder and a faithful servant of the Lord. She was preceded in death by her father, Cecil Doyle, on Nov. 26, 1990. Those left to treasure her memory are her mother, Patsy Cunningham Doyle; brother, David Alan Doyle; sister, Janet Lea Doyle Smith; nephews Geoffrey Alan Doyle and Jonathan Shepherd Doyle, all of DeRidder; nephew, Dallas Hamilton Smith of Lake Charles, nephew, Brandyn Doyle Smith of DeRidder, niece, Myranda Lea Smith of Lake Charles, great niece, Camryn Paige Doyle of DeRidder, and great nephew, Paxton Graeme Doyle of DeRidder. Visitation will be held on Friday, March 28, 2014, from 5 p.m.-9 p.m. at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in DeRidder. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 29 at 11 a.m. at First United Pentecostal Church in DeRidder with the Rev. Zale Lewis and the Rev. George L. Glass, Jr. officiating. Burial will follow in Beauregard Cemetery under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home in DeRidder. 

David Droddy, Jr., 
David Wayne "D.J." Droddy, Jr., 27, of Longville, passed away Tuesday, May 20, 2014, in DeRidder. Visitation will be Friday, May 23, 2014 from 11 a.m. until service at Broadlands Bible Church. A funeral service will be held Friday, May 23, 2014 at 2 p.m. at Broadlands Bible Church, officiated by the Rev. Tim Bergen.
He is survived by parents David and Fay Droddy, Sr., of Longville; one brother, Calvin Droddy and wife Alisha of Longville; one niece, Alivia Grace; two nephews, Caden and Mason; two aunts, Carolyn Spikes of DeRidder and Jeannie Maxie of DeRidder; and paternal grandmother Elaine Droddy of DeRidder. 

Betty Jane Dutcher
Betty Jane Dutcher, 93, passed away peacefully on Feb. 1, 2014, at 1:30 p.m. with her family at her side.  Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2014, in Labby Memorial Funeral Home Chapel located in DeRidder, La., with the Rev. Wayne Evans officiating.  Burial will follow in Beauregard Cemetery in DeRidder under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home in DeRidder.  Visitation will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2014, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m., and will continue on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2014, from 9 a.m. until time of the service at the funeral home.
She was born and grew up in Toledo, Ohio.  She married Paul in 1942, and remained happily married for 71 years.  They have lived together in DeRidder since 1972, with previous residences in Alexandria, La., Mississippi, Arkansas and Ohio.
Betty loved her children, Janet, Paula and David dearly and was so proud of them, their accomplishments, the outstanding adults they became and how caring and generous they were.
After raising her three children, Betty worked as a secretary at West Bros. General Office for over 10 years. In 1986, she became a Pink Lady at Beauregard Memorial Hospital, where she served for 20 years with over 7,000 hours of volunteer service. For nine years she served as secretary of the Auxillary Board. Betty was a member of the First United Methodist Church, DeRidder, and participated in the Mary Martha Circle as the Spiritual Chairman. 
Those that have preceded her in death are her parents Albert and Rachel Dilley; brothers Vernon, Russell and Richard; sisters Hazel Conway, Edna Reese, Doris Green and Ruth Johnston. Still living is brother Donald, and wife Pat Dilley of Toledo, Ohio.
Betty's surviving family are her husband Paul; daughters Janet Hoffpauir and Paula Walker and husband, Kenneth; son David Dutcher and wife Judy; grandsons Kevin Walker and wife Christie and Andrew Walker, wife Claire and great grand-daughter, Bella. 

Paul O. Dutcher
Paul O. Dutcher, 97, of DeRidder, LA., passed away peacefully on March 13, 2004. Funeral services will be held at 2 P.M. on Sunday, March 16, 2014, in the Labby Memorial Funeral Home Chapel located in DeRidder, La., with Rev. Wayne Evans officiating. Burial will follow in Beauregard Cemetery in DeRidder under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home in DeRidder. Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2014, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. and will continue on Sunday, March 16, 2014, from 10 a.m. until time of the service at the funeral home in DeRidder.
During Paul's professional career, he proudly served as a Boy Scouts of America professional for over 25 years, recruiting adult volunteers, promoting youth membership and organizing challenging and character building events. Paul directly impacted the personal development of many boys into responsible young men. He was still interacting with local Scouts in DeRidder as late as 2013. After retiring from Scouting, he continued to serve the youth in his community for several years as a school crossing guard at K. R. Hanchey Elementary.
Paul was born and grew up in Toledo, Ohio. He married Betty Dilley in 1942 and remained married for 71 years until her passing earlier this year. They lived in DeRidder since 1972, with previous residences in Alexandria, La.; Mississippi; Arkansas and Ohio.
Those that have preceded him in death are his wife, Betty; his parents, Otto Cline and Walla Hedwig Warnke Dutcher; sisters, Helen Meister and Ruth Whitworth, and their husbands Melvin Meister and Eugene Whitworth.
Paul's surviving family includes daughters, Janet Hoffpauir, Paula Walker and husband Kenneth; son, David Dutcher and wife Judy; grandsons, Kevin Walker and wife Christie, Andrew Walker and wife Claire and great granddaughters, Bella and Hanna. 

Britt Eaves, Jr.
Britt Henry Eaves, Jr., 54, of Lake Charles, La., passed from this life on Monday, Aug. 18, 2014 from a supply boat accident in Venice, La. Those left to cherish his memory are his parents, Britt Henry Eaves, Sr. and wife Ree of Lake Charles, La.; sisters, Rhonda Hoeft and husband Mike of Charles City, IA, Darlene Davis and husband Kenneth of Elizabethtown, KY, and Lauree Isbell and husband Derwin of Dry Creek, La.; brothers, Shaston Gray and wife Rebecca of DeRidder, La., Waylon Simmons of Groves, Texas, and Kelton Simmons and wife Leslie of DeRidder, La.; a host of nieces and nephews; and special friend, Salle Kelle.
Visitation will be held Friday, Aug. 22, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Funeral services will be Saturday, Aug. 23, 2014 at 2 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Cannon Cemetery in Merryville, La. Bro. Dalton Isbell will officiate. 

Irma G. Ellis
Funeral services for Irma G. Ellis, 100, will be held at noon Saturday, Aug. 30, 2014, at Sweet Home Baptist Church in DeRidder, La., with burial at Beauregard Cemetery in DeRidder. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to noon on Saturday in DeRidder. Services are under the direction of Braxton Funeral Home. 

Richard Thomas Ellis - November 13, 1937 – May 19, 2014
Richard Thomas Ellis, 76, passed away Monday May 19 at Magnified Health and Rehab in College Station. Visitation will be Thursday May 22 at 12:00 p.m. followed by funeral service at 6:30 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Chapel in College Station. Interment will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at Houston National Cemetery.
Richard was born November 13, 1937 in Akron, Ohio the son of Robert Thomas and Ida (Weber) Ellis. He proudly served our country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. After his military service, he worked with General Dynamics in the Apollo space program. He spent a number of years in finance. Besides raising his children, he had a passion for WWII history but most of all he loved the ministry and serving the church in some way. He pastored a church in south Louisiana during the late 70's and continued to be active in various roles within the church for the rest of his life.
Richard is preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Gloria Kuchta.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mary Ann Ellis of College Station; sons and daughters-in-law, Richard David Sr. and Cynthia Ellis of Houston, Robert Thomas Ellis of Seattle, WA., John Philip and Sharon Ellis of Caldwell; 17 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. 

Walter Ray Evans
Walter Ray Evans, 63, of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2014. Mr. Evans received his minister's license in 1975 and was ordained in 1988.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife Lois Evans of DeRidder, La.; sons, Anthony Evans of Salt Lake City, Utah, and Parish (Robin) Evans of Raleigh, N.C.; daughters, Beatrisha Evans and Carla Evans, both of DeRidder, La., Peteria (Cedric) Tellis of Copperas Cove, Texas, and Margaret (Bernard) Freeman of Atlanta, Ga.; brothers, George (Dee) Evans of Cherry Hill, N.J., Jerry Evans of Houston, Texas, and Willie R.(Marilyn) Evans of DeRidder, La.; sisters, Emma Smith of DeRidder, La., Lucy Nichols and LaZetta Henderson both of Houston, Texas; grandchildren, Hunter, August, Darynn, Jasmine, Jamarcus, Ajalae, Demetrius, Qadriy, Kaelen, and Thandie; loving god sister, Sis. Mearn Mapps. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Madie Evans, and brother, Louis Evans.
Visitation and will be held on Friday, Feb. 14, 2014 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Mt. Canaan Baptist Church in DeRidder, La. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2014 at 11 a.m. at Mt. Canaan Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Beauregard Cemetery in DeRidder, La. Rev. Louis Guy will officiate. 

Jett Allen Farris
Jett Allen Farris, 6, of Merryville, La., passed from this life on Wednesday, Feb.19, 2014. Those left to cherish his memory are his parents, Heath and Cassandra Farris; sisters, Kynlee Farris and Adelynn Lambert, all of Merryville, La.; grandfather, Charles Farris of Merryville, La.; grandmother, Joann Farris of Merryville, La.; grandfather, Cassell Jett of DeRidder, La.; and grandmother, Cindy Harbison of DeRidder, La.; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
Visitation will be held on Friday, Feb. 21, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at First United Pentecostal Church in DeRidder, La. Funeral services will be Saturday, Feb. 22, 2014 at 3 p.m. at First United Pentecostal Church. Burial will follow at Cooper Cemetery in DeRidder, La. Funeral services are under the direction of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. 

Willis Farris
Willis "Bill" Farris, 74 of DeRidder, LA, passed from this life on Tuesday, August 5, 2014 in Lake Charles, LA. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 45 years, Lishe Lou Farris; sister, Bronnis Farris Vore of Cleburne, TX; very special and loving niece, Pam Austin of DeRidder, LA. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Lillian Farris; sisters, Frances Farris Risher and Wanda McWhirter Heaton.
Visitation was held Wednesday, August 6, 2014 from 5:00pm until 9:00pm at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, LA. Funeral service was Thursday, August 7, 2014 at 2:00pm at Hopewell Baptist Church in DeRidder (Bundick Lake).
Burial followed at Hopewell Cemetery. Bro. Steve Miller, Bro. Huey Haymon, and Bro. Ben Austin officiated. 

James Felice
James Wesley Felice, 86, of Longville, passed away Friday, March 14, 2014, in Jennings. Visitation will be Sunday, March 16, from 3-8 p.m. and Monday, March 17, from 9 a.m. until time of service at Chaddick Funeral Home in DeRidder. A funeral service will be Monday, March 17, at 10 a.m. at Chaddick Funeral Home with the Rev. Bill Smith officiating. Interment will be at Beauregard Cemetery. James is survived by one daughter, Evelyn Partain of Raywood, Texas; four sons, Jerry Felice of Longville, Richard Felice of Crowley, Ernest Felice of Longville, and Gene Felice and Carolyn of Longville; 15 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; four sisters, Hazel Richard of DeRidder, Eola Corbello of Houston, Texas, Nell Jones of DeRidder and Emma Perigo of Ragley; and one brother, Kenneth Felice of Deweyville, Texas. 

Joseph Tony Fontenot
Opelousas - A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial for Mr. Joseph Tony Fontenot will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 7, 2014, in the Sibille Funeral Home Chapel in Opelousas.
Joseph was a native of Lewisburg, a longtime resident of DeRidder, and was currently residing in Lawtell for the past four years. He passed away on Saturday, May 24, 2014, at his home at the age of 60. He was retired from Union Pacific Railroad. He enjoyed cooking, eating crawfish, and spending time with his family and many friends. He cherished his time that he shared with his dog, Poopie. He will be sadly missed by all that loved and knew him.
Survivors include his wife of 16 years, Christiane Fontenot of Lawtell; one son, Luke Anthony Fontenot of Baton Rouge; stepdaughter, Missy Davis of Abilene, Texas; stepson, Steve Brister, Jr. of Baton Rouge; brother, James Bruce Fontenot and wife, Tommie Sue of Baton Rouge; sister, Sandra Fontenot LaCaze and husband, Willie of Pitkin; three step grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Arthur Fontenot and Lula Mae Bihm.
The family is requesting visiting hours be observed in the Sibille Funeral Home of Opelousas on Saturday, June 7, 2014, from 9 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. A Rosary service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday. 

Alva Franks
Alva Lucille Smith Franks, 85, of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Monday, June 9, 2014 at her residence. Mrs. Franks is survived by her husband, Jack Dempsey Franks of DeRidder, LA; son, Ronnie Lethan Franks and fiancé Linda King of DeRidder: grandson, Lethan Chad Franks and wife Vanda of DeRidder, granddaughters, Angela Franks Jackson and husband Mike of DeRidder, and Tara Franks Cudd and husband Craig of Moss Bluff, LA: great grandchildren, Payge, Macy and Lane Jackson, Abie and Alex Cudd, Aryanna and Violet Franks and Mallory King.
She is preceded in death by her parents: James Clark "Hicks" and Eunice Theodocia Smith: brothers, Otis and Carroll Smith;sisters, Edith Klenk and Gertie Lea Smith: Daughter in law, Brenda Chevalier Franks.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, June 10, 2014 from 5-9 p.m. and again Wednesday, June 11, 2014 from 9 a.m. until time of service at Boxwood Church of Christ in Bivens. Service will be held Wednesday, June 11, 2014 at 2 p.m. Burial will follow in Boxwood Cemetery in Bivens. John Eaves will officiate.
Services are under the direction of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder. 

RC Franks
RC "Britt" Franks, 84, of Merryville, La., passed from this life on Monday, July 7, 2014. RC was a Church of Christ preacher for over 60 years and was a faithful and dedicated Christian. He was a member of Bivens Fire Dept, District 1 for over 10 years, and past president and board member of South Merryville Water System. Those left to cherish his memory are his sons, Kevin C. Franks and wife Sonya, and Michael Franks and wife Shawnee all of Merryville, La.; daughters, Sherry Jackson and husband Wesley of Anacoco, LA, and Bobbie Goodknight and husband Mike of Merryville, La.; brothers, MB Franks and wife Rena Mae of Oretta, La., and Hubert Franks of Newton, Texas; sister, Otha Lee "Doc" Hewitt of Lake Charles, La.; special niece, Ina J. Sadler of Vidor, Texas; grandchildren, Whitney Byrd and husband Evan, Kylea Franks, Heidi Franks/James Skeets, Lesi Travis and husband Brett, Reyhana Couvillion/Leslie Doyle, Doug Couvillion and wife Lindsey, Chelsea Couvillion, Melissa Harper, Krista Henry and husband Delane, Kristi Goodknight and husband Michael, and Chad Eaves. He was preceded in death by his wives, Lucille "Lou" Dickens Franks, and Pauline Franks; infant daughter, Lydia Franks; daughter, Nell McInnis; parents, Jessie R. and Lydia Franks; sisters, Lillie Williams, Allie Spears, and Opal Spears; brothers, Leonard Franks, Lovis Franks, and JD Franks.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 9, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Boxwood Church of Christ in Bivens, La. Funeral services will be Thursday, July 10, 2014 at 10 a.m. at Boxwood Church of Christ. Bro. Ray Hyatt, Ray "Bo" Franks, and Joey Franks will officiate.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Sunny Glenn Children's Home, P.O. Box 1373, San Benito, TX 78586 or Magnolia Messenger, P.O. Box 1578, Kosciusko, MS 39090. Services are under the direction of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. 

Ruby Frazier
Ruby Loftin Frazier, 79, of DeRidder, La., entered eternal peace on Friday, Aug. 1, 2014 in DeRidder. She was born in DeRidder in 1935. After being raised in Rosepine she married and moved around with her husband's work until she returned to DeRidder in 1999. She enjoyed crocheting and always made blankets for her new grandbabies. She had a love for poetry and some of her poetry had been published. She will be remembered as being a strong willed and a survivor.
Mrs. Ruby was preceded in death by her parents, Reginald and Gussie Craft Loftin; two husbands, Owen Melvin Frazier and James Robinson; and one sister, Betty Jo Cooley. Those left to mourn her loss and cherish her memory are three sons, Lee Frazier of Rosepine, La., William E. "Billy" Frazier of Reeves, La., and Roy Charles Frazier of Dallas, Texas; four daughters, Betty Yvonne Perkins of DeRidder, La., Anna Marie Connor of Daniels, WV, JoEllen Howell of Rosepine, La., Wendy Patrice Cabading of Shreveport, La.; two brothers, David Roy Loftin of Roepine, La., and Bill Loftin of Rosepine, La.; one sister, Bonnie Dale Thompson of Rosepine, LA; fifteen grandchildren; 26 great grandchildren; four great great grandchildren; and numerous extended family and friends.
Visitation will begin on Sunday, Aug. 3, 2014 from 3 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Hixson Funeral Home in DeRidder, La., and from 9 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 4, 2014 until the time of service at 10 a.m. with Brother Luke Snyder officiating. Interment will follow at Lewis Cemetery. 

Susie Anna Freeman
Funeral service for Susie Anna Freeman, 80, will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2014, at Mt. Canaan Baptist Church in DeRidder, La. Pastor Guy will officiate. Burial will be in Community Cemetery under the direction of Fondel Memorial Chapel. Visitation will be Wednesday from 11 a.m. in the church. Mrs. Freeman died Monday, Aug. 18, 2014, at 5:45 p.m. in a local hospital. Born in Picayune, Miss., she resided in the DeRidder area most of her life, where she was a member of Mt. Canaan Baptist Church, where she served in the Mission Dept. and was a former Sunday school teacher.
She leaves to cherish her memories two sons, Michael J. Carter Sr. and Mitchell E. Carter; four grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. 

Glenda Friesland
A memorial service for Glenda Marie Friesland, 72 of Leesville, La., will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, 2014, at Ludington Baptist Church of DeRidder, La., with the Rev. Michael Allen officiating.
Glenda was born on Friday, June 6, 1941, to Richard and Sydney Calcote Bailey, Sr. at DeRidder, La.  She was raised in Rosepine and returned to the DeRidder Rosepine area around 1994.  She was a homemaker and a member of Ludington Baptist Church of DeRidder, La.  Glenda passed from this life on Sunday, January 19, 2014, in DeRidder, La. Her arrangements were handled under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La.
She is survived by two sons, Bobby Dean Friesland, Jr. and wife Tina of Dayton, Texas, and Neil Odell Friesland and wife Amy of Olathe, Kan.; 1 daughter, Sherri Lynn Tipton and husband Donald of Leesville, La.; 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. 

Bobbie Faye (Andrews) Garner
Bobbie Faye Andrews Garner, 86, of Sugartown, La., passed from this life on Thursday, June 5, 2014 at her home. Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Leo James Garner of Sugartown; sons, Charles Owen Garner and wife Lena of Patterson, La., Earl Stanley Garner and wife Karen of Sugartown, La., and Jeffery Lynn Garner and wife Jane of Sugartown, La.; daughters, Reda Fae Garner DeMary of Lake Charles, La., Peggy Ann Garner Dronet of Jackson, Miss., Helen Kay Garner Ritter and husband Kevin of Kinder, La.; brother, Keith E. Andrews and wife Violet of Sugartown, La.; sisters, Bonnie Mae Andrews Marcantel and husband Junior of Kirbyville, Texas, and Ada Marie Andrews Bell of Kinder, La.; 14 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Kenneth Wayne Andrews, Wilbur Drew "Sonny" Andrews, Jr., and Leo James "Jimmie" Garner, Jr. The family sends a heartfelt thanks to Dr. Fastabend.
Visitation will be held Saturday, June 7, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Funeral services will be Sunday, June 8, 2014 at 2 p.m. at Three Pine Pentecostal Church in DeRidder. Burial will follow at Sugartown Cemetery. Bro. Dan Booth will officiate.

Leo James Garner
Leo James Garner, 87, of Sugartown, passed from this life peacefully on Monday, June 9, 2014 at his home. A pillar in the community, Leo lived in Sugartown all his life. He was born on July 24, 1926 in Sugartown, to Paul and Octavia Garner. He graduated from Sugartown High school in 1944. On May 18, 1946 he married Bobbie Faye Andrews in Sugartown. Those left to cherish his memory are his sons, Charles Owen Garner and wife Lena of Patterson, Earl Stanley Garner and wife Karen of Sugartown, and Jeffery Lynn Garner and wife Jane of Sugartown; daughters, Reda Fae Garner DeMary of Lake Charles, Peggy Ann Garner Dronet of Jackson, Miss., Helen Kay Garner Ritter and husband Kevin of Kinder; brother, Henry Garner of Haynesville; sisters, Catherine Bostrom of DeRidder, Mable O'Neal of Tyler, Texas, and Pauline Taylor of Port Arthur, Texas; 14 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Bobbie Faye Andrews Garner; and son Leo James "Jimmie" Garner, Jr. The family sends a heartfelt thanks to Dr. Carl Fastabend. Mr. Garner was a soybean farmer, school board member, ironworker, Navy World War II Veteran, and wonderful father of seven. He had a magnetic personality and will be greatly missed by many.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, June 11, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, and Thursday, June 12, 2014 beginning at 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Smyrna Baptist Church in DeRidder. Funeral services will be Thursday, June 12, 2014 at 2 p.m. at Smyrna Baptist Church in DeRidder. Burial will follow at Sugartown Cemetery. Rev. Frank Ott Jr. will officiate. 

Rodney Gentry
Rodney Gentry, 59, of DeRidder, La., entered eternal peace on Monday, May 26, 2014 in DeRidder. A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 30, 2014 at 11 a.m. at Salvation Center St. Mary Church of God in Christ in DeRidder.
Mr. Gentry was preceded in death by his father, Collins Gentry; two brothers, Isaac "Ray" Gentry and Ruben Gentry and one sister, Rose Eaglin. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Lisa (Smith) Gentry of over 25 years of DeRidder, La.; three sons, Rodney M. Gentry of San Diego, Calif., Christopher C. Gentry of Lake Charles, La., and Matthew T. Gentry of DeRidder, La.; two daughters, Tynisha M. Gentry of San Diego, Calif., and Sariee Gentry Daigle of DeRidder, La.; his mother, Beatrice Thomas of Reseda, Calif.; three brothers, Larry Gentry of DeQuincy, La., Michael Gentry of Breaux Bridge, La., and Collins J. Gentry of Orange, Texas; four sisters, Emma Gipson and Pamela Looney both of Los Angeles, Calif., Bamela Brown of DeRidder, and Florence Henderson of Reseda, Calif.; six grandchildren; a great nephew, Darius Toney, that was raised by him like a son and a host of extended family and friends.
Arrangements by Hixson Funeral Home of DeRidder, La. 

Mary Catherine (Humble) Gibson
Mary Catherine Humble Gibson, 66, passed on to be with our Lord on Jan. 27, 2014 at her residence in Fisher, La. She is survived by her devoted and loving husband of almost 46 years, Malcolm Keith Gibson; daughter, Nicole Gibson Brien and husband Shane of Baton Rouge, La; and son, Joshua Hunter Gibson of Baton Rouge, La.; granddaughters, Catherine "Cate" Amanda, Elizabeth "Ella" Holland, and Sadie Margaret Brien; brother, Jordan Humble and wife Kristy of Polson, Mont.; sisters, Ingia Humble Parish of Marshall, Texas, and Renee Humble Myers and husband Hardy of DeRidder, La.; sisters-in-law, Peggy Owens and husband Dennis of Ft. Myers, Fla., LaNell Darst and Daena Gibson of Decatur, Ill.; and a host of nephews, nieces and cousins. She is preceded in death by her parents, Jimmy and Lucille Humble; and sister, Amanda Humble Bumgardner.
Mary was a graduate of Minden High School, Class of 1965, and retired from the State of Louisiana after 32 years of service.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2014, beginning at 9 a.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La., until time of service at 10 a.m. A private interment will be held at a later date at the St. James Episcopal Methodist Columbarium in Baton Rouge, La. Reverend Rick Watson, Merryville Methodist Church will officiate. 

Medford Glass
Medford L. Glass, 90, of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Wednesday, June 25, 2014.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Naomi A. Glass of DeRidder, La.; son, Novy Glass of DeRidder, La.; granddaughter, Meredith Glass of Baton Rouge, La.; brother, Rev. and Mrs. Arless Glass of Pasadena, Texas. And a host of loving nieces, nephews, and friends.
Mr. Glass was born in Fulton, La., but moved to DeRidder at age 4 and resided there until his death. He retired from Civil Service with 30 years of service, having spent the last 25 years of service as a Management Analyst in the Controller's Office at Fort Polk. Mr. Glass attended the First Pentecostal Church in DeRidder for 62 years where he served as a Sunday School Teacher for 35 years, as a Board Member and/or Trustee for 20 years, and as Sunday radio broadcast announcer for 30 years. Mr. Glass was a veteran of World War II with two years of service in Europe. He was stationed at Belfast, Northern Ireland, England, and France. The last year of his overseas assignment was with Headquarters, U.S. Army in Paris. He was recipient of The Bronze Medal, one Battle Star for the Battle of the Bulge. Medford was a charter member of the Beauregard Country Club, and an avid golfer all of his adult life.
Visitation will be held on Friday, June 27, 2014 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. and again on Saturday, June 28, 2014 from 10 a.m. until time of service at Grace Church in DeRidder, La. Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 28, 2014 at 2 p.m. at Grace Church in DeRidder, La. Rev. George L. Glass, Jr. will officiate. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in DeRidder. Funeral services will be held under the direction of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. 

Marilyn Grisham
Marilyn Gwen King Grisham, 52, of Merryville, La., passed from this life on Sunday, July 6, 2014 in Lake Charles, La., after a long battle with cancer.
Marilyn was born in Covington, La., and raised in Merryville, La. She was a 1981 Graduate of Merryville High School and she attended McNeese State University for one year. She graduated as a cosmetologist from a Texas Beauty School.
Those left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Alisha Grisham of The Woodlands, Texas; brothers, Johnny "Cash" King of Bush, La., Joe King of Slidell, La., Robert King and wife Diane of Bush, La., Ronnie King of Franklinton, La.; sisters, Barbara Bruns of Merryville, La., Tina Nichols of DeRidder, La., Sharon Nelson and husband Herbert of Merryville, LA; grandson, Dylan Crowder of The Woodlands, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her father, Merle King; mother, Marylou King Ezell, two brothers, William "Bill" King and Dennis King, brothers-in-law, Walter Bruns and David Nichols, and niece, Ashley King.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 8, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Myers Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, LA. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 9, 2014 at 11 a.m. at Myers Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, LA. Rev. Ed Tilley will officiate. Burial will follow at Merryville Cemetery in Merryville, La.
Funeral services will be held under the direction of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. 

Vicki Grose
Vicki Gayle Grose, 52, passed from this life on earth to go live with her Savior on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2014. Vicki was born and reared in DeRidder, Louisiana.  She graduated from DeRidder High School in 1980 and attended McNeese State University.  She was an active member of Temple Baptist Church for many years.  She passed at St. Francisville Country Manor Nursing Home.       
She is preceded in death by her parents, Bobby and Mittie Grose.
Those left to cherish her memory are her brother, Torry Grose; sister, Mitzi Martin and her husband, Eddie; niece, Maggy Martin, all of DeRidder, La.; and nephew, Loren Martin and his wife, Angel of Bossier City, La.
Visitation will be held from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, 2014, and Saturday, Feb. 8, 2014, from 9 a.m. until service time at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in DeRidder, LA. Funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, 2014 at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Deridder with Rev. Roger Gill officiating.   Burial will follow at Whitaker Cemetery in DeRidder.
The family would like to thank the staff of St. Francisville Country Manor Nursing Home for their love and care of Vicki.  

Joan Hanley
Joan Moses Hanley, 77, died peacefully on April 7, 2014, in Georgetown, Texas.
Joan was born on Sept. 2, 1936, in Moriah, N.Y., the daughter of Everett and Elizabeth Hanley. Joan graduated from Moriah High School in 1954. She was married to George S. McGinness from 1955 to 1980. They had four children together. She lived in DeQuincy and DeRidder, La., from 1980 to 2012 where she was married to James Moses from 1997 to 2013. In late 2012, she moved to Georgetown to be near family for her remaining life.
Joan was a wonderful, loving mother, friend and active member in her church community. She was an avid gardener, artist and cook. Joan also loved to read and sew and demonstrated a special, loving bond with her many animal friends. Her unending belief in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, which she poured into her family, friends and everyone she met, was the foundation of her life.
She is survived by three daughters; Joy Miller of Voorheesville, N.Y., Kathie Coolidge of Brasher Falls, N.Y., and Jane Best of Georgetown, Texas; nine grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
Donations in Joan's memory may be made to your local animal shelter.
Burial will take place at the Catholic Community of Moriah Cemetery in Moriah, N.Y. A graveside memorial service will be held at a future date to be announced. Arrangements are entrusted to Harland Funeral Home, 4279 Main St., Port Henry, N.Y. 

Steven Harbison
Steven Clayton Harbison, 23, of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Saturday, Dec. 28, 2013 in Baton Rouge, La. Clay was a 2008 graduate of Rosepine High School. Those left to cherish his memory are his parents, Steven and Stephanie Harbison of DeRidder, La.; brother, Caleb Harbison of DeRidder, La.; sister, Morgan Harbison of DeRidder, La.; grandparents, Robert "Bob" and Vercie Harbison of DeRidder, La., and Stephen and Betty Jo Presley of DeRidder, La.; and a host of uncles, aunts, cousins and friends. Visitation will be held Thursday, Jan. 2, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at First Baptist Church in DeRidder, LA. Funeral services will be Friday, Jan. 3, 2014 at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church in DeRidder, LA. Burial will follow at Marlow Cemetery in Marlow Community in Cravens, La. Bro. Ryan Perry and Bro. John Blankenbaker will officiate. Services are under the direction of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. 

Betty West Harper
Funeral service for Betty West Harper, 74, of DeRidder, La., will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, March 21, 2014, at Diamond Baptist Church at 151 Diamond Baptist Church Road near DeRidder with Rev. Dale Miller officiating. Burial will follow at Oakhill Cemetery near Oakdale with Rev. Fred Hartzell officiating, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La. Betty died on Wednesday, March 19, 2014, at Rosepine Retirement and Rehabilitation Center after a lengthy illness.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 20, 2014, 3 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Diamond Baptist Church.
Betty was a devoted Christian who loved the Lord and worked to support others who spread the word about Jesus. She was a graduate of the Mather School of Nursing, which operated at Southern Baptist Hospital in New Orleans and took science and other courses at Tulane University. She was a registered nurse for more than 40 years in Baton Rouge, Covington, DeRidder, Morgan City and DeQuincy working in hospitals, nursing homes and correctional facilities. She worked for many years at Westwood Manor Nursing Home in DeRidder and at Paul G. Phelps Correctional facility near DeQuincy. Education was always important to her. She worked as a nurse at Natchitoches Parish Hospital while her first husband, Bobby Ray West, earned his college degree at Northwestern State University. Through the 1970's and 80's, she took classes at Nicholls State and Northwestern and received a degree from Northwestern in 2011. Betty was married to Bobby Ray West from 1961 until his death in 1983 and Billy O'Neal Harper, Sr. from 1988 until his death in 2009. She and Billy worked together on Beulahland Ministries, which helped construct schools and churches in several villages in Honduras. The ministry helped a number of people gain the resources needed to start their own businesses and improve their lives.
She is survived by her sons, David West of Natchitoches and Jeffrey West; daughter-in-law, Lesia Davis West of DeRidder; her step-daughter, Rose Ann Ripley of the Shiloh Community; step-sons, Billy O'Neal Harper, Jr. of the Shiloh Community, James Edward Harper of Mittie, and Phillip Jefferson Harper of Bonaire, Ga., and an aunt, Margie West of Oakdale.
She was an excellent gardener, who grew a variety of flowers, fruits and vegetables and a skilled amateur genealogist, who loved looking through records to find out about a past ancestor. Betty was also blessed with a good singing voice and was glad to have opportunities to praise the Lord in song.
Betty would like to thank Lesia Davis West for the loving care she provided at all hours during her illness. She would like to thank the staff at Rosepine Retirement and Rehabilitation for their care. 

Debra Harriman
Debra, 55, of Rosepine, La., passed from this life, Thursday, Jan. 2, 2014, at the ICU Department at Beauregard Memorial Hospital, into the arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Jan. 4, 2014 at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Then, on Jan. 5, 2014 she will be carried to Sugartown Baptist Church where from noon until time of service at 2 p.m. will be a short visitation time. Bro. Jim Miers and Bro. Frank Ott will officiate the service. Interment will be at Sugartown Baptist Church Cemetery. Debra lived in Baton Rouge, La., Detroit, Mich., and Natchitoches, La., before coming back home. She was a professional seamstress, wonderful friend, and sister. She loved to fish, crochet, knit and cook. Debra was never afraid to talk to people about her Lord and Savior. In her last few years, she enjoyed most of all her 2 grandchildren, Breanna and MJ Bradberry. She is survived by her husband, Henry Harriman of Rosepine, La.; daughter, Virginia Nicole Bradberry and son-in-law, Mane; grandchildren, Breanna and MJ Bradberry; son, Travis Bowden and daughter-in-law, Amanda of Baton Rouge, La.; sister, Darlene Miers and husband Jim of DeRidder, La.; and many, many friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, Jimmie Weldon and Frankie June Fontenot Weldon. We would like to take this time to say a huge THANK YOU to the ER Dept. at Beauregard Memorial Hospital on New Year's Day and evening of 2014, especially, Dr. Oglesby, Sharon Manitzas, and all the staff for their kindness, attention, and forthcoming. Also, the staff in the ICU room and nurses, Susan Midkiff and JoAnne Menard, thank you for being there and being so kind. Thank you to all the prayer partners-you know who you are. Also, for support from our family, Caleb, Britt, Ruth, and especially Barbara. She loved ya so much. 

Elizabeth Ruth Harris 
On Aug. 12, 2014, Sister Elizabeth Ruth Harris answered the Master's call and departed this life at Christus St. Patrick Hospital, Lake Charles, Louisiana. She was born November 15, 1935, in Natchitoches, La., to Alfred and Pearl Seymore (Turner). At an early age, the family relocated to DeRidder, La., and Elizabeth was enrolled in the Beauregard Parish Training School and excelled in her studies, graduating from George Washington Carver High School in 1954. She continued her education at Grambling State University, graduating with a degree in Business Education and English. Later, she pursued and obtained a Master's Degree +30 at McNeese State University. Her employment history in the Beauregard Parish School System spanned 55 years in numerous capacities which include junior high English teacher, Title II Media Specialist, Secretary to the Superintendent of Schools and high school English/Business Education teacher. Elizabeth was affiliated with a host of organizations. Baptized at an early age at Starlight Missionary Baptist Church under the pastorate of Rev. K.E. Robinson, her spiritual growth was nurtured by her participation in Red Circle, Youth Choir, Sunday School and Baptist Training Union. As an adult, she served as Assistant Youth Director, Church Secretary/Clerk and participated in Adult Sunday School Class #12. In the community, she was always encouraging, lending a helping hand and reaching out to those in need. Elizabeth leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband Joseph H. Harris, Sr.; six sons: Donald Harris, Bernard (Rita), Kenneth (Denise) Harris; Joseph (Rhonda) Harris, Jr.; Michael (Theresa) Harris; and Jason Harris; four daughters: Verdell Harris (Harold) Silas; Clara (Preston Jr.) Williams; Robin (Phillip) Forde and Clarice (T.J. Sr.) Martin; sisters: Martha (Thomas) Archinard; Dorenda Turner; Deborah (Nathaniel) Guillory; Brenda Joyce Baker; Brother: Floyd (Betty) Seymore; 21 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren; five great-great grandchildren; three godchildren: Alisa Yancy, Gerald Bickham and Artis Carhee; a sister/friend, Jerrye Yancy, and a host of other relatives and friends.
Visitation will be Saturday, Aug. 16, 2014, from 10 a.m. to time of service, noon, at Starlight Baptist Church, 200 Martin Luther King Dr., DeRidder, with the Rev. Daniel Stafford officiating, under the direction of Myers Colonial Funeral Home. Interment will be at Beauregard Cemetery. 

Sharon Haymon
Funeral service for Sharon Ann Haymon, 68, of DeRidder, La., will be held at
10 a.m. Saturday, April 5, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder. Burial will follow in Whitaker Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, LA. Sharon passed from this life on Wednesday, April 2, 2014, in Lake Charles, La.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 3, 2014, 7 p.m. until 10 p.m. and Friday, April 4, 2014, 9 a.m. until 10 p.m., all at the funeral home in DeRidder.
Sharon was born on Tuesday, July 3, 1945, to William "Buster" and Vera Loftin Cummings in DeRidder, LA. Sharon is survived by 2 sons, Todd Haymon and Craig D. Haymon, both of DeRidder, LA; 1 daughter, Lisa Cornejo of DeRidder, La.;
1 brother, Bruce Cummings of DeRidder, La.; 2 sisters, Rae Dein Jackson of DeRidder, La., and Brenda Cummings of Many, La.; 5 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, J. Junior Haymon. 

Rubye Henson
A graveside service for Rubye M. Henson, 86, of DeRidder, La., will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 8, 2014, at Whitaker Cemetery with Rev. Roderick Martin officiating. Burial will follow in Whitaker Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La. Rubye passed from this life on Sunday, April 6, 2014, at Merryville, La.
Rubye was born on Saturday, Jan. 21, 1928, to James and Mae Grissom Howell at Denton, Texas. She moved to DeRidder in 1971. Rubye loved flowers and roses were her favorite. She loved her dogs and her special one was "Prissy", crossword puzzles and giving of herself to various causes.
She is survived by three sons, Thomas "Tommy" Henson, Ronald "Ronnie" Henson and Carl James "Tex" Henson and wife Betty, all of DeRidder, La.; 1 daughter, Sharon Medley of Kennedale, Texas; special friend & former daughter-in-law, Sharolette Jett Henson of Hornbeck, La.; three grandchildren, Justin Henson, Allen Medley and Michael Medley; step-grandchild, April Jett Volpe; step-great grandchildren, Emily Grace Volpe and Kristal Jett and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Carl E. Henson; daughter, Rebecca Sue Henson; her brother, James "Unk" Howell; sister, Elaine Tillman and step-grandson, Steven Jett. 

Wilma Herring
A graveside service for Wilma "Sue" Herring, 86, of DeRidder, La., will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 19, 2014, at Beauregard Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La. Rev. Wayne Evans will officiate. She passed from this life on Wednesday, April 16, 2014, at DeRidder, La.
Wilma was born on Sunday, February 26, 1928, in Munich, Germany. She is survived by three sons, Rick Herring of Houston, Texas, Barry Herring & wife Pam of Houston, Texas, and Steve Herring and wife Cristie of Houston, Texas;
5 grandchildren, Brian and Becky Herring of Austin, Texas, Matt and Tamara Herring of Houston, Texas, Cade Herring of Houston, Texas, Michael and Caitlyn Herring of Washington D.C. and two great grandchildren, Madison Herring and Shane Herring of Houston, Texas. She is preceded in death by her husband, Colonel Shelby D. Herring and two sons, Mike Herring and Gary Herring.

Wade Hester
Wade Earl Hester, 74, of DeRidder, passed away Saturday, March 15, 2014 at Westwood Manor Nursing Home. Visitation will be Tuesday, March 18, 2014 from 5-8 p.m. and Wednesday, March 19 from 12 p.m. until time of service at Grace Church.
Funeral Service will be Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at 2 p.m. at Grace Church. Ministers will be the Rev. George L. Glass, Jr., the Rev. George Lee Glass and the Rev. James Glass. Interment will be at Hopewell Cemetery.
He is survived by three daughters, Kandy Warren and Dennis of Sulphur, Darla Lindsey of DeRidder and Stacy Hester of Silsbee, Texas; two sons, Steven Earl Hester and Tena of DeRidder, David Hester and Melissa of DeRidder; 11 grandchildren; one great-grandson; one sister, Helen Marie Hester of DeRidder; three brothers, Joe P. Hester and Nancy of DeRidder, Gilbert Hester and Beth of DeRidder, and Charles Hester of DeRidder. 

Hattie Mae Hickman 
Hattie Mae Hickman (Busby) was born to the late Rev. James Busby and Mother Altha Polite Busby on November 25,1952 in DeRidder, Louisiana. Hattie accepted Christ at a young age. She lived a saved, and sanctified life, and walked daily in her faith.
Hattie graduated for DeRidder High School in 1971. She attended college at Northwestern State University, worked as a nurse assistant, and worked as a pre-cook until she was called home by the Lord. Hattie was a member of St. Paul Church of God in Christ under the late Elder A.C. Abraham. She sang in the choir, and was a member of several auxiliaries. She truly enjoyed serving the Lord.
Years later, Hattie became a member of St. Mary Church of God in Christ under the late Elder James Piper, Jr. Hattie also participated in the choir, and other auxiliaries. Currently, she became a member of St. Mary Salvation Center under the pasturage of Superintendent Dallas Thomas. Hattie volunteered her services, and was readily available when needed.
Our mother, a Virtuous Woman of God loved the Lord. Through good times, she praised God; through difficult times, she praised God. Regardless of the situation; she praised God. Our mother walked in faith, and always trusted in God.
Hattie Mae Hickman(Busby) leaves to cherish Elder Daniel Hickman(husband), three children, Huey P. Roberson III, Amelia Ann Roberson, Harold Wayne Roberson; one granddaughter, Jasmine Lachelle Roberson; five sisters, Malasia Cross(Busby), MaryAnn Busby, Daisy Lee Busby, Bobbie Marie Busby, Gerta Sten Williams(Busby); three brothers, Isaac Busby, James Busby, Jr. (deceased) of DeRidder, Louisiana and Albert Otis Lee of Texas. She also has a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.
A wake service will be held Saturday, May 31, from 9-10:45 a.m. at St. Mary Church of God in Christ, 506 East 1st St., DeRidder. A funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 31, at St. Mary Church of God in Christ with Superintendent Dallas Thomas officiating. Interment will follow at Community Cemetery in DeRidder. Funeral services entrusted with Allen Mortuary of Houston, Texas. 

Helen Hickman
Helen Hickman, 88, of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Tuesday, April 1, 2014. Helen was born April 4, 1925 to Walter Eaves and Sarah (Neely) Eaves in Merryville, La., She attended Merryville School and graduated from there. Helen worked for Atlantic Richfield for a number of years. She also worked at Fort Polk. Then, she retired from Boise Cascade after a long working career. Helen belonged to the Little Flock Primitive Baptist Church. She joined the church at an early age. Helen was a woman of great faith, who loved God, family, and friends. Auntie had no children of her own, but many surviving nieces and nephews. Also surviving are nieces and caregivers, Carolyn Davis and Shirley Martin, both of DeRidder, La.; sister-in-law, Isabelle Eaves of Merryville, La. She is preceded in death by her husband, D.W. "Dude" Hickman and her parents, Walter Eaves and Sarah Eaves; brothers and sisters, Inez Eaves Turner (Calvin), Selma Eaves Craft (Giles), Jim Eaves (Minnie), Louis Eaves (Hilda), W.L. "Buddy" Eaves (Frances) and Huey E. Eaves.
Visitation will be held Thursday, April 3, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Funeral services are Friday, April 4, 2014 at 3 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Cannon Cemetery in Merryville, La. Elder Truman Keel will officiate. 

Joyce Rae Hickman
Joyce Rae Hickman, 86, of DeRidder, La., stepped into Heaven on Saturday, May 17, 2014 with her son and daughter-in-law at her side. Joyce was born on December 24, 2014 to Robert and Mattie Miers of DeRidder. She graduated from DeRidder High School and worked for 28 years until retirement in 1989 as the budget Officer at Fort Polk Army Post. She was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of DeRidder, a member of Joy Singers Choir, and a 19 year member of Pinehurst Chapter #33, Order of Eastern Star.
Joyce was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Marshall O. Hickman; daughter, Katherine Janelle; son, Marshall Wayne; sisters, Bobbie Mae Cooper and Geneva Denise Miers; parents, Robert and Mattie Miers. She is survived by her son, Roger D. Hickman and devoted daughter-in-law, Carla, of Whitehouse, Texas; grandsons, Marshall Ryan and Kevin Reid Hickman of Whitehouse, Texas, and Jeremy (Lauren), Timothy(Sarah) and Stephen(Jennifer) Hickman, all of San Antonio, Texas; brother, Thomas Miers; sister Myra Jean Warren both of DeRidder, La.; 7 great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and many cherished friends.
Visitation will be Wednesday, May 21, 2014 from 5:30 p.m. until 9 p.m. and Thursday, May 22, 2014 from 9 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 22, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Beauregard Cemetery in DeRidder, La., with an Eastern Star Ceremony. Rev. Larry Craig of Tyler, Texas, and Rev. Lindsey Burns of DeRidder will officiate. Special thanks to Hospice of East Texas, Keena Berry and Innovations Home Health Care, and staff at Rosewood Assisted Living of Newton, Texas. 

Sandra Hickman
Sandra Darlene Hickman, 58, of DeRidder, passed away Friday, March 14, 2014, at St. Patrick's Hospital in Lake Charles. Visitation will be Monday, March 17, 2014 from 2-9 p.m. at Chaddick Funeral Home in DeRidder. A funeral service will be held Tuesday, March 18, 2014, at 10 a.m. at Chaddick Funeral Home. Interment will be at Whitaker Cemetery. Sandra is survived by two daughters, Amanda Simmons and husband Joe of DeRidder, and Katrina Lee Danielle Hickman of Lake Charles; two granddaughters, Amanda Jean Simmons and Clara Bella Simmons; one sister, Rose Mallett of Lake Arthur; one brother, Winfrey G. Mitchell of DeRidder; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. 

Jeannette Hicks 
Jeannette Ann Perkins Hicks was born on Saturday, December 25, 1954, to Samuel Leigh and Eulalie (Hoover) Perkins. She passed away on Thursday, June 26, 2014 at her residence in DeRidder, La. Jeannette graduated from Natchitoches Central High School in 1972. She obtained her BS, Med, and Med + 20 from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, LA. She taught for five years in the Natchitoches Parish and for fifteen years in Beauregard Parish. She also taught several years at Northwestern State University at Fort Polk. Upon her retirement from education, she was employed by Amerisafe, Inc. for fourteen years. Jeannette was a member of the First United Methodist Church and the Kisatchie Chapter of DAR. She was actively involved with God's Food Box until her health declined. She was a member of Delta Mu chapter of Sigma Kappa.
Jeannette is survived by her loving husband of twenty-nine years, Jimmy Hicks, her daughters, Jaime Renee Primm (Chad) Feaster of Lake Charles, LA and Mary Christine Primm (Ken) Lynch of Sulphur, La. She is also survived by a stepson, Todd Hicks of DeRidder and stepdaughters, Missi (Colby) Kibodeaux of Longville, La, Laurie (Kevin) Cooley of Beaumont, Texas, and Amy (Mickey) Atkinson of Dry Creek, La. She also leaves seven grandchildren, Tara, Kira, and Jack Lynch, Keegan, Paige, Kadee and Preston Feaster and eight step grandchildren, Kelleigh Lynch, Jordan Hicks, Tyler Kibodeaux, Gabe, Kane and Luke Atkinson and Kalei and Dawson Hicks. She is also survived by her mother, Eulalie Perkins of Natchitoches, La.; uncle, Jerry Hoover of Bunkie, La., sister, Linda Perkins Loftin of Denver, CO; brothers, Barry (Karen) Perkins of New Market, Maryland, Richard (Ashley) Perkins of Franklin, Tenn., Mark Perkins of Natchitoches, La., and Mike Perkins of Hopewell, Va.
Jeannette was preceded in death by her father, Samuel Leigh Perkins, Sr. and a brother, Samuel Leigh Perkins, Jr.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 29, 2014, 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La.
Celebration of Jeannette's life will be held at the First United Methodist Church of DeRidder, La., on Monday, June 30, 2014, 10 a.m. with Dr. Wayne Evans and Rev. Jon Tellifero officiating. Burial will be at Beauregard Cemetery following the service.
Pallbearers will be John B. Jones, III, George LeRay, Kevin Cooley, Ronnie Perkins, Randy Hicks, Roy Harper, Jr., Billy Ducote and Dale Ducote. Honorary pallbearers will be Marion Broeder, Elizabeth (Tannie) Helms, Brigitte Booth, Mary Alice Wisdom and members of Rosemary Cady Circle of FUMC. 

Auta Bruce Highsmith
Funeral service for Auta Bruce "Shorty" Highsmith, Sr., 87, of Princeton, Texas, will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 16, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in DeRidder, LA, Rev. Gary Evers officiating. Burial will follow in Whitaker Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 15, 2014, 5 p.m. until 9 p.m., and Wednesday, April 16, 2014, from 9 a.m. until time of the service at the funeral home in DeRidder.
"Shorty" was born on November 6, 1925, to Oscar Harold and Zettie Loggins Highsmith in Steep Creek, Texas. He was a pipeline welder and was a member of Plumbers and Steamfitters Union, Local 106, Lake Charles, La., for over fifty years. He was a veteran of WWII in the European Theater and fought in the Battle of the Bulge.
Mr. Highsmith is survived by his wife of 63 years Eunice Young Highsmith of Princeton, Texas; two sons, Rod Highsmith and wife JoAnn of San Francisco, CA, and A. B. Highsmith, Jr. of Emeryville, CA; daughter, Brenda Highsmith Allbritton and husband Myron of McKinney, Texas; sister, Nadine Berwick of Orange, Texas; six grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren and three great, great grandchildren. 

Edith Hogan
Edith Linn Hogan, 70, of DeRidder, La., left this earth for her eternal home on Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2014 at her home. Edith was a member of Grace Church and New Life Baptist Church in DeRidder and was also a member of DeRidder Lion's Club. Edith was a lover of life and a people person like her daddy, Snookie.
Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Reverand Bill Hogan of DeRidder; stepsons, Brad Phelps and wife Debbie of Tomah, Wis., and Kenny Phelps of Lake Charles, La.; step daughters, Katherine Phelps of Korea, and Heather Gonzalez and husband Jeremy of Baytown, Texas; brother, Ardis Alston and wife Elaine of DeRidder, La.; grandchildren, Christopher Phelps of Miami, Fla., Stephanie Phelps of St. Louis, Miss., Bailey and Major Gonzalez of Baytown, Texas; great grandchild, Ayden Phelps of St. Louis, Miss.; niece, Shari Cooley and husband Kevin B., nephew, Scott F. Alston, great niece, Isabella Grace Cooley all of Lake Charles, La. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lafayette Franklin "Snookie" and "Ms. Lucy" Alston; first husband, Jerry Patrick Phelps; and nephew, Ardis Alston, Jr.
Visitation was held Thursday, Aug. 7, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Grace Church in DeRidder.
Funeral service is Friday, Aug. 8, 2014 at 2 p.m. at Grace Church. Burial will follow at Beauregard Cemetery in DeRidder. Rev. Lynn Clayton, Rev. George L. Glass, Rev. George Lee Glass, and Rev. Jimmy Glass will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace Church, New Life Baptist Church or DeRidder Lion's Club. Services are under the direction of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. 

Myrtle Faye Brister Hosey
Funeral service for Myrtle Faye Brister Hosey, 71, of DeRidder, La., will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 8, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder with the Rev. Dalton Isbell and the Rev. Eugene Williams officiating. Burial will follow in Beauregard Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La.
Visitation will be held on Friday, March 7, 2014, 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at the funeral home in DeRidder.
Myrtle was born on Wednesday, April 29, 1942, to John and Myrtle White Brister, in DeRidder, La. She moved back to DeRidder in 2008. Myrtle passed from this life on Wednesday, March 5, 2014, at 8:45 p.m., in Leesville, La.
Myrtle was survived by her husband, married 47 years, Charles Hosey, of DeRidder, La.; one daughter, Diane Morrison; one son, William Morrison and wife Connie, all of DeRidder, La.; five grandchildren, Donna Holifield Vidrine and husband Mike, Patricia Holifield Noel and husband John, Charles Morrison, Amber Morrison and Jessica Morrison; one sister, Inez Duncan of Oretta, La.; and 14 great-grandchildren. 

Walter Clarence Hughes
A memorial service for Walter Clarence Hughes, 82, will be held Saturday, March 22, 2014, at 2 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Hornbeck, La. Bro. Jack Bell will officiate.
He departed this life to be with Jesus on March 13, 2014 at 9 p.m.
Clarence was born in Hornbeck, La., on Dec. 18, 1931 and graduated from Hornbeck High in 1950. He attended Northwestern State College where he obtained a Bachelor's degree in elementary education. He taught a half year at Westlake High before entering the Army for two years where he attained the rank of captain. Afterwards he settled in the Shreveport area and taught at Blanchard Junior High for 10 years. During this time he obtained a Master's degree in administration from Stephen F. Austin University. He also completed a doctorate degree in Counseling and Guidance at the University of Arkansas.
Clarence was employed at McNeese State University from 1966-1989 serving in various administrative positions and as a professor in the department of psychology. He retired from McNeese and after a year of leisure was called to serve Sowela Technical Community College as an administrator from 1999-2009.
In recent years he was spending most of his time in Hornbeck where he was known as "WC." At their place in Hornbeck he enjoyed finally being retired so he could play in his shop and on his backhoe and bulldozer.
His greatest enjoyment was returning to the pleasures of a small-town environment and adding his singing and worship voice to those of First Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William Benjamin and Mary Ellen Hughes; twin brother, Philip Murry Hughes; brother, George Benjamin Hughes; and sisters, Zelia Elizabeth Ferguson, Gladys Lola Davenport, Mary Louise Hughes and Mamie Beatrice Evonne Beebe.
He is survived by his wife, Jeanette; daughter, Rebecca Ann "Becky" Hughes and Alan B. Dewey, partner, of Lake Charles, and daughter, Belinda Yvonne Hughes of Hornbeck; sister, Lillie Wilmuth Seagrave of Hornbeck.
Visitation will be Saturday, March 22, 2014 from 12:30 p.m. until service starts at 2 p.m., First Baptist Church of Hornbeck. 

Ella Pearl Hyatt
Ella Pearl Hyatt, 69, Starks, La., passed from this life on Tuesday, May 27, 2014. Mrs. Hyatt was a graduate of Hyatt High School and a Beauregard Parish Fair Princess. She worked for Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. in Port Arthur, Texas, and married in 1963 in Port Arthur. Ella Pearl worked many years as a professional seamstress. She was a lifelong member of ADAH Chapter of the Order of Eastern Star of DeQuincy and served as an officer. She was a member of Gambrell Baptist Church and was as a prior song leader. She was a supporter of many Christian charities. Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Prentice Ebb Hyatt of Starks, La.; daughter, Amanda Hyatt Burge and husband Shane of Austin, Texas; sister, Brenda Naomi "Dolly" Smith Kramer of Sulphur, La.; granddaughter, Megan Hope. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Hazel Foster Smith; brothers, Albert Louis Smith and Lloyd Smith, Jr.; sisters, Betty Smith Coleman and Selma Doris Smith McFadden.
Visitation and Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 31, 2014 at Gambrell Baptist Church in Starks, La. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until time of service at 2 p.m. Burial will follow at Smith Cemetery in Starks, La. Bro. Jarrell Lambright will officiate. Services are under the direction of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. 

Gernie Glorien (Aymond) Hyde 
Gernie Glorien Aymond Hyde died on June 6, 2014 at her home in DeRidder, La. She was born on August 24, 1922 in Effie, La., where the Aymond family was descended from one of the pioneer families who settled Avoyelles Parish around 1793: Michael Aymond and Catherine Aron of Strasbourg, Alsace, France.
Gernie Aymond was the second youngest of nine children born to Alfred and Ollie (Ritchie) Aymond, and was proceeded in death by her parents and all her siblings: Evie Ryland, Ora Shirley, Roy Aymond, Sudie Wiley, Earl Aymond, Erving Aymond, Iris Guillory and Venson (Toby) Aymond. Her life on the sandy hills of Avoyelles Parish were filled with laughter, music and joy. The closeness of the family was reinforced by its annual reunions, held for over 50 years, in which family members would gather and relive the days of old with a traditional hog roast, group singing, and bonding with ever growing family of nieces and nephews.
Gernie graduated from Lafarge High School and attended Business College in Pineville, La. Upon her graduation, she began her career as a Laboratory Technician at the Louisiana State Hospital in Pineville, La. With the ending of World War II, she meet and married her husband of 67 years, William Leon Hyde, Sr. and began raising her family. In 1961, the Hyde family purchased Esso Distributorship from the late Mr. Pete LaCaze and relocated to DeRidder, La. She worked alongside her husband, and later in life was joined in the business by their two youngest sons, John and Fred. W.L. Hyde Exxon Distributor was an integral part of DeRidder community for over 50 years. Well into her 80's Mrs. Hyde continued to enjoy weekly bridge games with her lifelong friends, domestic and international travel and a deep, unconditional love of her family. For the many stories remembered and shared, her family and friends are grateful for her well lived life.
Throughout her life Mrs. Hyde was quite engaged in her community, with civic, church, business and charitable activities, serving as a Cub Scout Den Mother for seven consecutive years, and high school chaperon for many years to recall. Her two most notable achievements, in addition to raising her family and building a successful business, were being a Charter member of the Beauregard Hospital Auxiliary (Pink Ladies) and the Women's Progressive Business Club. She and her family are lifelong members of the First Baptist Church of DeRidder.
She is survived by her husband, William Leon Hyde, Sr; four sons, William L. Hyde, Jr., and wife Claire of Dallas, Texas, Michael A. Hyde, John L. Hyde and wife Sandy, and Charles A. (Fred) Hyde, all of DeRidder; seven grandchildren; fifteen great grandchildren and one great great grandchild.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at Hixson Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Visitation will begin on Saturday, June 7th, 2014 from 5:00pm until 8:00 pm and on Sunday, June 8th, 2014 from 1:00 pm until the time of service at 2:00 pm. Interment will follow in Beauregard Cemetery. Pallbearers will be her sons. Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to Beauregard Hospital Auxiliary. 

Marsland Iles
Marsland "Billy" Iles, 74, born in Cottonport, La., passed peacefully Sunday March 30, 2014 at 4 a.m. following a lengthy illness.
Marsland was the eldest child born to Lillian (Vegia) and William Iles. He was reared at Starlight Baptist Church and baptized by Rev. K. E. Robinson in DeRidder, La. He graduated from George Washington Carver High School and was a member of the Grambling State Marching Band while attending college. In college he met and married Bertha Bolling of Minden, La., and to this union two children were born a son Tremelle and a daughter Terea, which all preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death were his parents, parental grandparents Jesse "Son" Iles and Mariah Friez Iles, Uncles Charley, Hubbard, Robert, Leroy and his namesake Marsland Iles. Aunts Mamie Mayes, Sara Keller, Verda Mayes, Irene Lanier and Mary Iles (Crockett), maternal grandparents Johnny Vegia and Isabella Bell Vegia. Aunt Estella V. Washington, Uncles Lloyd, Arthur and Phillip "Felix" Vegia. His sisters Ethel Sue Iles, Annie Mae Iles, Oreatha Freeman Thomas and his brother Larry Shine Vegia.
Marsland retired from Graybar Electric and left his home in Houston, Texas, to move to the quiet community of New Waverly, Texas, where he designed and built his dream home with his wife Norma and blended family-Tracy, Tina, Robert and Ronald. Marsland was a top salesperson for Parklane Jewelry for many years, winning various trips including one to Hawaii.
He was a photographer, contracted office cleanings and night security jobs. He was most content gardening, fishing in his pond and manipulating his extensive collection of model trains and spending time with his family. Being a man of many interests, he also enjoyed working on small appliances and quartet singing.
He was truly blessed, with (8) grandchildren, his loving wife Norma Hill Iles, brother Curtis (Faye) Iles of Houston, Texas, and a brother Rev. David (Brenda) Iles of DeRidder, La., who will all cherish his memories along with many cousins and friends.
A memorial service will be held Friday, April 11, at 1 p.m. at Chaddick Funeral Home in DeRidder. 

Marcus Jackson
Marcus Antwan Jackson, 32, of Merryville, passed from this life on Monday, July 28, 2014 at his home. Those left to cherish his memory are his mother, Ida Sweet and husband Gregory, fiancée; Kiara S. Palmer, son, D'Monte A. Jackson; daughter, Kimya A. Jackson all of Merryville; brothers, KeAndre Jackson, Patrick Jackson, Gregory Sweet, Jr. all of Merryville, and Marshall Sweet of Lake Charles; sisters, Alycia Samuel and Brittany Mitchell of Houston, Ivona Sweet of Lake Charles, and Cherrisse Hooper of Merryville; and a host of loving family and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Woodrow and Lorean Jackson of Bon Wier, Texas, Bennie Myers of Beaumont, Texas, and Katherine Sweet of Merryville.
Visitation and Funeral services will be Saturday, Aug. 2, 2014 at United Christian Fellowship in Newton, Texas. Visitation is from 9 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at Belgrade Community Cemetery in Belgrade, Texas. Minister Bryan Foster will officiate.
Funeral Services are under the direction of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder. 

Lowell D. Jenkins
Funeral service for Lowell D. Jenkins, 70, Longville, La., will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La., with Rev. Stuart Graves officiating. Burial will follow in Barentine Cemetery, Longville, La., under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, LA. Mr. Jenkins passed from this life on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014, in Lake Charles, LA
Visitation will be held on Friday, Aug. 15, 2014, 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at the funeral home in DeRidder.
Lowell was born on Saturday, Aug. 5, 1944, to Claude and Mable Rice Jenkins in Elkhart, Kansas. He later moved to Longville, La., where he retired from Trunkline Gas Company after 33 years of service as a welder. He was formerly employed as a pipeline inspector for several companies.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Glenda Ramsey Jenkins, of Longville, La.; 2 daughters, Cathy Berryhill and husband John of Lake Charles, La., and Peggy Ellender of Longville, La.; one brother, Gene Jenkins of DeRidder, La.; one sister, Doris Maum of DeRidder, La.; four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents and 1 brother, Loren Darrell Jenkins. 

Joseph Jones, Sr.
Joseph Edward Jones, Sr., 82, went to be with Lord on Wednesday August 13, 2014. Mr. Jones was a Deacon and member of Shiloh Baptist Church. He is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Edith Hickey Jones, Sr.; daughter, Mildred Elaine Jones; Brother, Frank Jones, Jr.; and a sister, Alberta Welch. Those left to mourn the loss of Mr. Jones and cherish his memories are his devoted and loving wife of 59 1/2 years Hannah Slater Jones of DeRidder; 3 sons, Joseph E. Jones, Jr. of DeRidder, William Kenneth Jones of DeRidder and Leslie Neal Jones of West Virginia; daughter, Doris Marketon of South Carolina; 2 brother, Paul Jones of West Virginia and Kenneth Jones of Ohio; sister, Mildred Stewart of Michigan; 3 grandchildren, Nichol Huntington of Kentucky, Michael Jones of DeRidder and Tera Jones of West Virginia; 3 great grandchildren, Shiloh Marketon, Jaiden Huntington, Kaylee Huntington all of Kentucky. Funeral services for Mr. Jones will be conducted at Shiloh Baptist Church, Saturday, Aug. 16, 2014 at 10 a.m. by Bro. Rod Martin. Visitation with the family will begin 1 hour prior to service time. Interment to follow, in the Hopewell Cemetery. Arrangements by Hixson Funeral Home, DeRidder, Louisiana 

John Kevin Kelty
John Kevin Kelty, 54, passed away peacefully on Monday, Feb. 10, 2014 surrounded by his loving family at home in Baton Rouge, La. He was born on Jan. 1, 1960, in DeRidder, Louisiana to Dr. C.D. "Doc" and Mrs. Jane Payne Kelty.
Kevin was diagnosed in October 2009 with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease), and never lost faith or his love for life. He remained positive and hopeful throughout his ALS journey. His precious memory will live on in Kim, Chris and Emily as he leaves with them his legacy of inspiration, and his teachings of living life with character and integrity. Kevin lived out the verse:
"But we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulations bring about perseverance, and perseverance, proven character, and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us." Romans 5:3-5
Kevin graduated from DeRidder High School in 1978. It was there that he met his high school sweetheart, Kim Ryals, and they were married in 1983 in DeRidder, La., and they were happily married for 30 years.
Kevin attended Louisiana State University where he received a bachelor's degree in finance in 1982, and remained a proud supporter of his LSU Tigers. He went on to obtain an M.B.A. from LSU in 1983, and joined J.P. Morgan Chase that same year.
The first 26 years of his career were spent with J.P. Morgan Chase, splitting time between Houston and Dallas before becoming President of Chase, Baton Rouge, in April 2009. Kevin held a number of successful management positions within J.P. Morgan Chase. From 1994 to 2005, he was co-head of the Dallas Corporate and Investment Bank. From 1999 to 2005, he was a managing director in J.P. Morgan's Global Telecom and Media Investment Banking Group.
Prior to moving to Baton Rouge, Kevin managed two corporate banking groups within J.P. Morgan Chase's Commercial Banking Group. The first of these, the Technology Corporate Banking Group, specialized in small and mid cap technology companies nationwide with offices in New York, Boston, Atlanta, Dallas, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. The second, the Southwest Corporate Banking Group, targeted companies from diverse industries located throughout the Southwest and Rocky Mountain region with offices in Dallas, Houston and Denver. Kevin also set up offices for J. P. Morgan Chase in Orlando and Charlotte.
Upon moving to Baton Rouge, Kevin got involved in the community right away and was on the LSU E.J. Ourso College of Business Dean's Advisory Council and served on the Financial Committee. He participated in the E.J. Ourso College's Visiting Business Executive Program, speaking to students in LSU's Department of Finance. He also served as Treasurer and sat on the Board of Directors for the Baton Rouge Area Chamber.
Kevin led a Christ-centered life as a member of St. Jude Catholic Church that was evident in both his private and professional life. He was a family man and was deeply committed to all activities in which his two children Chris and Emily were involved. He coached Chris in baseball for many years and was involved in his basketball and golf activities. Kevin loved to watch and support his daughter Emily's dance no matter where she was dancing-Dallas, New York, LSU, etc. He loved to watch her dance. His joy in life was his children and he was so proud of Chris and Emily.
He was devoted to his adoring wife Kim. They were a united team in raising their children and were blessed enough to enjoy many years of wonderful travel, as well as the endless joy of family gatherings. When Kevin walked into a room he had a smile that would light up a room, and he had a boisterous, contagious laugh. He was a mentor to many and advised many family, friends and colleagues over the years. He always had a way of making people feel comfortable with his easy-going attitude. He always cared for other people and saw the good in them.
Once diagnosed with ALS, he became an advocate for ALS, speaking in interviews on TV and was featured in newspaper articles locally and nationally. The ALS Association honored him for his dedication in the fight against the disease in January 2013. Kevin had large and supportive "Kelty Krewe" walk teams in Baton Rouge, Houston, and Dallas. He had a community page for the ALS Therapy Development Institute and started a very successful fund for research to find a cure and treatment for ALS.
Kevin was honored in 2013 when a garden was named in his honor, The Kevin Kelty Garden at the Team Gleason House of Innovative Living at St. Margaret's in New Orleans, Louisiana. The residence is only the second of its kind in the country for ALS patients and was made possible thanks to a generous donation by J.P. Morgan Chase.
Kevin was preceded in death by his grandparents, D.F. and Winnie Kelty, and Hubert and Myra Payne.
Kevin is survived by his loving wife, Kim Ryals Kelty of Baton Rouge, LA; his son Chris Kelty, proudly following his father's footsteps by attending LSU. Chris works as a sponsorship salesman for TigerDroppings and is also a professional sports photographer. His daughter Emily Kelty, proudly following her father's footsteps and attending LSU is a Public Relations Major and a member of the LSU Tiger Girls and Chi Omega Sorority; his devoted parents, Dr. C.D. "Doc" and Mrs. Jane Kelty of DeRidder, LA; his brother James "Gus" Kelty and wife Pat of Lake Charles, LA; his sister Karen Nichols of Miami, FL; his brother Bob Kelty and wife Vivian of The Woodlands, TX; his nieces and nephews: Joseph and Missy Kelty and children Sean and Brady; Robert and Samantha Kelty and child Atis; Aimee and Scott Broussard and children Cameron and Ben; Sara and Billy Williams and children Elaine and Chloe; Matthew Kelty; Paul Nichols; Megan Kelty; his parent-in-laws Linda Ryals, Tommy Ryals and his brother-in-law Linn Ryals.
In accordance with Kevin's final wishes a visitation and prayer vigil will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2014 from 4–8 p.m., the prayer vigil will begin at 7:30 p.m. at Rabenhorst Funeral Home on 825 Government Street, Baton Rouge, La., and the funeral mass celebrating Kevin's life in words and music will be held at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, 9150 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, La., 70810 on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2014, at 11 a.m. with Father Trey Nelson.
As many witnessed he was an amazing writer, and shared his ALS journey on Caring Bridge with family and friends around the country who prayed for him and the entire Kelty Family for four years. Kim, Chris and Emily are forever grateful for the love and support everyone has shown them.
His family would like to send a special heartfelt Thank You to: Nurse Stacey Boulas, and St. Joseph Hospice, Peaches Olalekan, and respiratory therapist, Lisa Dunigan, The ALS Association and all of our family and friends from Dallas, Baton Rouge and around the country for all the support, text, voicemails, prayers, love and visits. And to all of Kevin's Scrabble and Words With Friends

Margaret Krasso
Margaret Krasso, of Merryville, La., went to be with her heavenly father on April 13, 2014 at the age of 81. She was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Richard Krasso, by her parents, R.O. and Ella Lewis, three brothers and one sister. She is survived by her son, Bill Krasso of Bellville, Nebraska; daughters, Beth Cuevas and husband Paul of Merryville, La., and Karen Vaughan and husband Barron of Dale, Texas. She has five grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
Mrs. Krasso was a member of Merryville First Baptist Church, a 50-year member of the Order of Eastern Star, and a lifetime member of Priscilla Chapter in Merryville. She worked as a bookkeeper, tax preparer, and a notary public for 60 years. She held the office of Mayor of Merryville for one term. She stayed civically active her entire life. She will be greatly missed by family and friends.
Funeral services are Wednesday, April 16, 2014 at 10 a.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Merryville Cemetery in Merryville, La. Bro. Lyndon Longoria will officiate. 

Barbara LaGrone 
Barbara Hayes LaGrone passed from this life on June 4, 2014 at Rosewood Assisted Living.
Barbara was born July 30, 1926 in Shardlow, England. She attended church in New Saeeley. She married the love of her life, Joseph "Joe" LaGrone Nov. 3, 1956 in Ealing, England. Barbara was a licensed beautician, but spent most of her life as a house wife and home maker for her beloved Joe.
Barbara was preceded in death by Joe on June 5, 2004. She is survived by her son, Patrick LaGrone and a granddaughter, Krysten LaGrone.
Graveside services will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 9, at Kirbyville Cemetery in Kirbyville, Texas and under the direction of Adams EE Stringer Funeral Home in Kirbyville.
Many thanks and praises to all of the wonderful, loving staff at Rosewood II Assisted Living and also to Inovations Home Health nurses Keena Berry and Sneeley Newman. 

Ellaweise Lambert
Ellaweise Lambert, 89, of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Tuesday, July 29, 2014 in Alexandria, La. Mrs. Lambert stood for what she believed in and enjoyed cooking, sewing, and could sell anything. She brought the original New Orleans Style Snocones to DeRidder. Those left to cherish her memory are her sons, Halton "Dog" Lambert and wife Gay of Merryville, Dalton "Tunnie" Lambert and wife Janet of Salisbury, N.C., Alton "Tudor" Lambert and wife Brenda of DeRidder, and Elton "Poot" Lambert and wife Pam of Little Rock, Ark.; daughters, Sammie Rose Kubala and husband Ronald of Wallisville, Texas, and Sharon "Baby Sister" Lambert of DeRidder; 17 grandchildren and 28 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Harmon H. Lambert; sisters, Mae Nelson, Bessie Smith, Ruby Clark, Darty Drake, and Rosie Green; brother, Bill Droddy; parents, Andrew and Catherine Droddy.
Visitation will be held Thursday, July 31, 2014 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Funeral Services will be Friday, August 1, 2014 at 2 p.m. at First United Pentecostal Church in DeRidder, La. Burial will follow in Cooper Cemetery in DeRidder. Pastor Elton Lambert will officiate. The family would like to give special thanks to Beauregard Memorial Hospital ICU. 

Rebecca Langley
Rebecca Lee Willett Langley, 78, of Sulphur, La., died at 1:56 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 2, 2014 in a local care facility.
Mrs. Langley was born Sept. 15, 1935 in Merryville, La., has lived in Lake Charles since 1955, and recently moved to the Sulphur area.  She was a Christian and attended Living Faith Baptist Church.  She enjoyed word and picture puzzles and loved the color purple.  She will always be remembered for her feisty personality, beautiful dimples, and when she laughed, her eyes would dance and sparkle.  She loved her family dearly and will be missed greatly.
Mrs. Langley is survived by her children, Patsy Bailey and husband Tommy of DeQuincy, James Louis Langley and wife Paula of Lake Charles, Debra Poole and husband Bobby of Sulphur, La., Walter Langley and wife Raona of Dallas, Texas, and Linda Simmons and husband Lloyd of DeQuincy, La.; sisters, Lucille Smith of Nederland, Texas, and Maxie Seamon of Mittie, LA; eight grandchildren, James "Peanut", Troy, Brandi, Loletta "Toots", Tabby, Amber, Lloyd, Jr. "Scooter", and Will; 24 grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James Monroe Langley; parents, James and Bertie Lanier Willett; brothers, Kenneth Willett, O. A. Willett, and Fouch Willett; and sister, Marie Willett Miller.
Her funeral service was at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2014 in the Johnson Funeral Home Chapel.  Rev. David Lilly officiated.  Burial followed in Prien Memorial Park.  Visitation was at the funeral home on Monday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. and continued on Tuesday from 8 a.m. until the start of the service. 

Melba Lee
Melba Jean Barnard Lee, 84 years of age, peacefully ascended into Heaven on February 27, 2014 surrounded by her loving family. Daughter of the late Lee Barnard and Zephyr Mae Bailey Barnard. She was the beloved wife of the late Dolph H. Lee, of 47 years. Jean was born and raised in Springhill, La., and lived in DeRidder and Alexandria, La., as well as Dallas and Friendswood, Texas. At the time of her passing, she was residing in Mandeville, La. She is survived by two daughters, Cynthia Jagneaux (Jim LaCroix), Covington, La., Candice Horn (Jack), Friendswood, Texas, and two sons, Marvin W. Lee (Lisa), Covington, La., and Jerry D. Lee (Debbie), Mandeville, La. Jean was the treasured grandmother of ten, Lex, Brooke and Courtney Jagneaux, Grant Lee, Jessica Lee Wardlaw (Russell), Chelsea Lee Cotton (Ryan), Jerrett (Rachel), Nathan, Allison and Daniel Horn. Beloved great grandmother of three, Hayden Cotton, Sophia Wardlaw, and Chett Horn. Beloved aunt of many nieces and nephews dear to her heart.
Jean touched many lives as she served our Lord as a Sunday School teacher at First Baptist Church-DeRidder, La., and at Emmanuel Baptist Church-Alexandria, La., for many years. Jean was a testimony in the City Hall of Dallas, Texas, serving for twenty years in various departments. She was truly an inspiration to all who knew her. Jean's great LOVE for the Lord, as well as her family and friends, was the delight of her life. She also loved many aspects of nature, especially birds, seashells, plants and flowers.
Family and friends are invited to the funeral service for a celebration of her life at Bailey's funeral Home, Haynesville, La. Visitation was held at 11 a.m. on Sunday, March 2 with services beginning at 12.

Lasson LeGros
Funeral services for Mr. Lasson LeGros, Sr., 94, will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 2, at Our Lady Help of Christians Catholic Church with Fr. Charles McMillin officiating.
Burial will be in the Andrus Cove Cemetery in Lake Arthur under the direction of Miguez Funeral Home of Jennings.
Funeral home visitation will be Saturday, Feb. 1, from 3 p.m. until 10 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 2, from 10 a.m. until time of services. Rosary will be recited Saturday at 6 pm.
Mr. LeGros was a lifelong resident of the Jennings area. He was a retired Ford tractor mechanic for Curtis Welch. He was a World War 2 Veteran-Army-8th Army Tank Division. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Lions Club, Catholic Church usher/Eucharistic minister, and a lifetime member of the VFW and American Legion.
He was also an avid duck hunter and enjoyed training labs.
Survivors include: Daughter-Libby (Horace) Hebert of Bundick Lake; Son-Johnny (Benita) LeGros of Jennings; Daughter-in-law-Vicki LeGros of Burkeville, Texas.; 11 grandchildren, multiple great-grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren. Sisters-Rita Lewis and Edna Mae Kratzer of Andrus Cove. He is preceded in death by his parents Homer and Agnes LeGros, wife of 47 years, Marie Kratzer; wife of 19 years Ruby Chapman; Son-Lasson B. LeGros, Jr. and Willie James LeGros (infant)and granddaughter Brandi Lynn LeGros.
Pallbearers: Wade LeGros, Chad Hebert,John H. LeGros, Jr., Rhett LeGros, Ryan Hebert, Beaux LaBorde.
Honorary pallbearers: Brian Hanks, Jordan LeGros, John Fontenot.
Junior pallbearers: Gavin Hebert, Chad Touchet, Jr., Jorion LeGros, Romelo LeGros, Lasson K. LeGros and Dawson Hebert.
The family would like to give a special thanks to Camelot Brookside and staff for providing special care to our loved one. Thanks, Dee, Rita, and his smile maker (Jamie). 

Hazel Loftin
Funeral services for Hazel Marie LeJuhn Loftin, 66, of DeRidder, La., will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 11, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in DeRidder, with Dr. Wayne Evans officiating. Burial will follow in Old Cypress Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder.
Visitation will be held from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m., Friday, Jan. 11, at the funeral home. Hazel passed away into the presence of her Heavenly Father on Wednesday, Jan. 8, in Dubuis Hospital of Lake Charles.
Hazel loved being married to her loving, devoted husband, Robert Earl Loftin for 45 years. She was a 1965 graduate of Vinton High School. She retired in 1989 as bookkeeper from Abe's Grocery Store. She loved spending her time at home with her beloved family and friends.  She also enjoyed painting and working with crafts. Hazel was actively involved in the XI Beta Mu chapter of Beta Sigma Phi, DeRidder Chapter, where she served as treasurer. In past years she served on the DeRidder Doll Festival board. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of DeRidder.
Hazel is survived by her husband, Robert Earl Loftin of DeRidder; daughter, Gayla Loftin-Trahan of Grand Lake, La.; step-daughters, Caren Loftin and Robin Roy and husband Tom, all of Charlotte, N.C.; step son, David Loftin of Charlotte, N.C.; grandchildren, Amber Trahan and fiancée James Richard, Cody Trahan, Alexandria Gomes and husband Matthew, Ryan Hall, Jason Hyatt and Blake Hyatt; great grandchildren, Aria Richard and Ayia Hyatt; brother, Dudley Joseph LeJuhn, Jr. and wife Gwen of Vinton; sisters, Marie Baus of Dublin, Calif., and Linda Elliott of Pottstown, Penn. Hazel was preceded in death by her parents, daughter, Amber Louise Loftin, and son-in-law James Bradley Trahan. The family wishes to thank the doctors and staff at Dubuis Hospital for such good care given to Mrs. Loftin 

Pearl Weeks Tucker Lowery
Pearl Weeks Tucker Lowery, 76, of Lafayette, passed away Sunday, Feb. 23, 2014, in Broussard. Visitation will be Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2014 from 3 p.m. until time of service at Rosepine United Pentecostal Church. A funeral service will be held Thursday, Feb. 27, at 2 p.m. at Rosepine United Pentecostal Church with the Rev. Gary Bankson officiating. Interment will follow at Rosepine Cemetery. Pearl is survived by three daughters, Regina Linn Turley and Don of Houston, Texas, Debra Tucker Angelle and Rex of Lafayette, and Barbara Shell and Dwayne of Rosepine; six grandchildren, Tonya Ward and Tommy, Donald Turley III and Kristi, Rex Angelle III and Lucy, Autumn Angelle, James Tucker Jr. and Courtney, and Chelsea Tucker; 10 great-grandchildren; one sister, Pat Jeane and Siville of Rosepine; one brother, James Leonard Weeks and Teri of Buckeye, Ari. Preceded in death by her two husbands, Leotis Tucker and Harvey Lowery; her son, James Leo Tucker, Sr., her daughter-in-law, Lisa Tucker, and her sister, Ima Jean Wunderlich 

Freddie Luther 
Freddie Jean Luther passed away June 8, 2014 at Christus St. Patrick's Hospital in Lake Charles, Louisiana. She was born July 27, 1932 to William and Thelma Hadley in Port Neches, Texas. In high school at Port Neches, she was active with band and was the drum majorette. She married her husband, James, following graduation from high school. They made their home in Nederland, Texas where they lived and reared their four children, Susan, Robert, David, and Glenna. When her youngest entered first grade, Freddie started college at Lamar University along with her oldest daughter where she obtained her degree in Elementary Education. She taught Special Education at Port Neches for 13 years. When James retired they moved to Toledo Bend where she became a Special Education teacher in Many, Louisiana for eight more years. They moved to DeRidder, Louisiana in 1998 where they were members of First United Methodist Church and the National Camping Methodists. Freddie was married to her beloved husband, James, for 62 years until his death in 2009. Freddie is survived by sons, Robert and wife Debra, David and wife Jodies; her daughters, Susan Luther Johnson and Glenna Luther; seven granddaughters and nineteen great grandchildren. She was loved by many including friends, neighbors, relatives, and her church family.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, June 11, 10 a.m., at First United Methodist Church in DeRidder with Rev. Wayne Evans officiating. Burial will follow at 2:30 at Couley Double Church Cemetery near Winnfield.
Visitation is Tuesday, June 10, 5-8 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home. 

Randal Keith Lutton
Randal Keith Lutton, 58, of Leesville, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2014, at his home. Visitation will be Thursday, Feb. 20, 2014 from 3-6 p.m. and Friday, Feb. 21, from 9 a.m. until time of service at Chaddick Funeral Home. A funeral service officiated by the Rev. James Byrd will be held Friday, Feb. 21, 2014 at 11 a.m. at Chaddick Funeral Home in DeRidder. Interment will follow at Leesville Cemetery.
Randal is survived by his mother Joy Keltz, of DeRidder; son Tony Arnold and Rebecca of Rosepine; three brothers, William Edward "Bill" Lutton and Ann of Manassas, Va., Franklin Daniel McQueary and Stacy of Natchitoches, and Eddie Earl Cross and Angie of Bryan, Texas; two granddaughters, Brittany Arnold and Katie Arnold; one great granddaughter, Lexi Brister; three nieces and three nephews. 

Sue Ann Maddox
Sue Ann Maddox, 67, of DeRidder, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 14, at Beauregard Memorial Hospital. A funeral service will be Friday, Jan. 17, at 2 p.m. at Chaddick Funeral Home with the Rev. Jeremy Spikes officiating. Interment will be at Whitaker Cemetery. Visitation began Thursday, Jan. 16, from 3-8 p.m. and continues Friday, Jan. 17, from 9 a.m. until time of service at Chaddick Funeral Home.
She is survived by four sons, Kirk Maddox and Melissa of DeRidder, John Maddox and Yvonne of DeRidder, Mark Maddox and fiancee Crystal of DeRidder, and Douglas "Bit" Maddox and Christel of DeRidder; one daughter, Belinda Morgan and Lonnie of DeRidder; one brother, Garland Brister and Betty of DeRidder; one sister, Evelyn Vance of McClure, Ohio; 19 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and four great-great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Douglas Leo Maddox; great-great grandson Brantley Ryan Davis; six brothers, Cecil, Leroy, JB, GA, Jerry and David Brister; and two sisters, Lethie Dyson and Opal Turner. 

Georgette Martin
Georgette "Georgie" Perkins Martin, a native and resident of DeQuincy, Louisiana died on June 30, 2014. She was Pentecostal by faith and a member of Longville Pentecostal Church. She was a straightforward lady that lived her life by example. A true prayer warrior. She loved to fish, cook, work in the garden and canning. Her family loved her homemade biscuits, fried chicken and rice and gravy.
She was the daughter of the late John T. Perkins and the late Hedy Perkins.
She is survived by her three daughters, Shawn Petrie of Yuma, Arizona, Sue Thibodeaux of Broussard, La. And Sandy Richey and husband John of DeQuincy, Louisiana. She is also survived by one son, Tommy McLeod and wife Laura of DeQuincy, one brother, Jimmy Perkins of Sulphur, La. And one sister Alma Rose Perkins of Sulphur, La., 14 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents John T. And Hedy Perkins, her husband of fifteen years, Shelby Martin, one brother, Johnny Perkins and two sisters, Lurlean Clark and Berta May Williams.
The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to her caregivers Elinor with Christus Hospital Hospice, Dacia Barbee and Heather Baggett for their excellent service.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 2, 2014 from 5-10 p.m. at Christensen Funeral Home, DeQuincy, La. And on Thursday, July 3, 2014 from 9 a.m. until the time of the service at 11 a.m. at Longville Pentecostal Church, Longville, La. Pastor Larry Talent and Rev. Carliss Jackson will be officiating. Interment will be at Magnolia Cemetery, Longville, La. 

Raburn A. Matthews
Raburn A. Matthews, 94, of Lake Charles, La., formerly of DeRidder, La., and having lived most of her life in Merryville, La., passed away Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2014 in Lake Charles. She was born on Jan. 24, 1920 in Deweyville, Texas.
Raburn is survived by two daughters, Melba Collins of Orange, Texas, and Lora Andrews of Lake Charles, La.; 4 grandchildren; and 11 great grandchildren.
Visitation and Funeral services will be held Saturday, Aug. 23, 2014 at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. Funeral Service will begin at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at Merryville Cemetery in Merryville, La. Rev. Ricky D. Treece will officiate.
The family wishes to thank Lake Charles Care Center for their loyal, dedicated care of "Miss Raburn" during her years there. 

James Byron McCain
James Byron McCain, 82, passed away peacefully Sept. 1, 2014 following a long and heartbreaking battle with Alzheimer's disease. Funeral service will be held at 4 p.m. on Sept. 6 at First Baptist Church, DeRidder with Rev. Steve Thomas and Rev. Lindsey Burns officiating. Visitation will be from 4-9 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 5 at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home, DeRidder. Burial will be in the Rosepine Cemetery under direction of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home.
Byron was born Aug. 11, 1932 in Rosepine to Earl and Bertha McCain.
Byron is survived by his wife of 58 years, Glenita, and his beloved sons, Gerald McCain and wife Lisa of DeRidder, James McCain and wife Mandy of North Richland Hills, Texas, and four grandchildren.
He attended Northwestern State University in 1954. Upon graduation from NSU, he served his country in the United States Air Force as a fighter pilot. Upon completion of his service in the USAF, he began his career in education, teaching music and math at Rosepine High School. In addition to teaching, he served as guidance counselor for 16 years and principal for 14 years.
Byron's dedication to his Lord and Savior led him to serve as the music director at Rosepine First Baptist Church for almost 50 years. He also served as a deacon and was a member of Gideons International for many years.
He served on the Board of Directors for the Vernon Parish Library. He was a past president of the Vernon Parish Retired Teachers Association. He served nine years as a member on the Board of Trustees of West Louisiana Health Services. He was a past member of the Executive Committee of Louisiana Principals Association. He served as vice president on the Board of Trustees for Beauregard Memorial Hospital from 1990-1993. He had been on the Board of Directors for the Beauregard Christian Women's Job Corps. He was a former member of the Joy Singers, First Baptist Church of DeRidder. 

Velmer McClelland
Velmer "Butch" L. McClelland, 64, of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Friday, July 18, 2014 in Alexandria, La. Those left to cherish his memory his wife, Cathy McClelland of DeRidder, La.; son, Daniel McClelland of Newton, Texas; son by heart Brian Shultz of DeRidder, La.; daughters, Christina Malone and husband Shawn of Jasper, Texas, Angela McClelland of DeRidder, La., Amy Tidwell of DeRidder, La., Alicia McClelland and wife Jill McDaniel of Baltimore, Maryland, Tiffany Mabry and husband Daryn of Rosepine, La.; brothers, Finnise McClelland and wife Carolyn of Newton, Texas, and Otto Marion McClelland of Wichita Falls, Texas; sisters, Dena McClelland Arant of Newton, Texas, and Nell Allen and husband Louis of Leesville, La.; grandchildren, Kyle, Rachel, Lauren, Emilee, Lawton, Logan, Cody, Camron, and Esmerelda, and a host of nephews, nieces, friends and many children of the heart. He was preceded in death by his parents, Theo and Opal McClelland; son, Garry W. Tidwell; and numerous family members.
Visitation will be held Thursday, July 24, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Funeral services will be Friday, July 25, 2014 at 2 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Homer Cemetery in Jasper, Texas. Bro. Roy Johnson will officiate. 

Donald "Don" L. McFatter
Funeral service for Donald "Don" L. McFatter, 87, of DeRidder, La., will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, March 10, 2014, at First Baptist Church in DeRidder with the Rev. Jerry Masters and the Rev. Lindsey Burns officiating. Burial will follow in Sugartown Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 9, 2014, 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at the funeral home in DeRidder and Monday, March 10, 2014, 10 a.m. until the time of the service at the church.
Don was born on Sunday, March 28, 1926, to John and Nannie Moore McFatter in Sugartown, La. He was a native of Sugartown and graduated from Sugartown High School in 1942. He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1943 until 1946 with service in the Pacific Theatre. He graduated from Louisiana State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Forestry in 1949. Don was employed in 1949 by the Louisiana Forestry Commission and served at every supervisory level including the State Forester's position as head of the agency.
He retired in 1984 with 35 years of service. Eighteen of those years were spent in DeRidder as District Forester over Beauregard, Vernon, and Calcasieu Parishes. Don logged over 2300 hours flying fire patrol over Southwest Louisiana reporting fires and directing fire crews action on those fires. He led five crews with trucks and tractors into Cameron following Hurricane Audrey arriving in Cameron 18 hours ahead of any similar help including the Army. Don received in 1960 the Charles E. Dunbar Career Service Award in recognition of distinguished public service. During 1969 – 70 he served as Rotary International District Governor for Rotary District 6200. Don served as president of the National Association of State Foresters during 1979-80 and received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Association of State Foresters and L.S.U. School of Forestry Alumnus of the Year in 1984. Don retired in 1984 and moved back to DeRidder in 1990. He was honored to serve as King of the DeRidder's Mardi Gras Celebration in 1993 and served a term on both the Tourist Commission, the Beauregard Parish Airport Board and has served as the Chairman of Beauregard's United Way Fund Drive. He also served one term as member of the Greater DeRidder Chamber of Commerce Board and two 3-year terms as member of the Beauregard Country Club Board and as President of the club in 1996. Don passed from this life on Friday, March 7, 2014, at Alexandria, La. Don is survived by his wife, married63years, Bobbie Batchelor McFatter of DeRidder, La.; 1 daughter, Donna Miller and husband Wade of DeRidder, La.; 2 grandchildren, Stacy and wife Melissa and Mark and wife Kari and 5 great grandchildren, Ashley, Josh, Lindsey, Jay and Ryan. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Leland McFatter and Milton McFatter. 

Katherine Louise Mears
ARLINGTON - Katherine Louise Mears passed away Friday, April 4, 2014, in Arlington.
Funeral: Noon Thursday at Mayfield Road Baptist Church, 1701 E. Mayfield Road, Arlington. Interment: 2:15 p.m. in Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, Dallas, Lane B. Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Wade Family Funeral Home, 4140 W. Pioneer Parkway, Arlington.
Louise was born Sept. 29, 1926, in Fullerton, La., to Dempsey and Florence Nolen. She graduated from Pitkin High School in Pitkin, La., in 1943 and attended Louisiana State University. She married Bill on Nov. 12, 1948, in Merryville, La., and they subsequently lived in Pitkin, La., and Winnie, Sealy, Beaumont, Galveston, Amarillo, Longview and Pantego.
She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and devoted friend who focused her life on her faith, her family and her friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Ray Absalom Nolen and Clifford Thomas Nolen; and sisters, Thelma Lorraine McDonald and Bertice Estelle McDonald.
Survivors: Her husband of 65 years, Wilbur Warren "Bill" Mears of Pantego; son, Philip Nolen Mears and wife, Suzy, of San Angelo; daughter, Laura Lynn Mears of Arlington; grandson, Eric Warren Mears and wife, Melynda, of Lewisville; grandson, Dr. Robbie J. Harris III of Nashville, Tenn.; granddaughter, Joy Lynn Sanzone and husband, Paul, of Jersey City, N.J.; grandson, John Nolen Harris of Denver, Colo.; great-grandchildren, Jordan Andrew Mears and Elizabeth Joy Mears of Lewisville; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. 

David Miles
David W. Miles, 63, of Loganville, GA passed away June 18, 2014. David loved fishing and cars and served his beloved country in the U. S. Navy. Surviving are his wife, Shirley, sons, and many other family members.
An Inurnment Service will be held at 12:30 pm, Friday, June 27, in the Georgia National Cemetery, Canton, GA. For tributes and more details for David, please visit www.mem.com. Arrangements entrusted to Eternal Hills Funeral Home, Snellville, GA 

Damon Randall Miller
Damon Randall Miller, 35, of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Sunday, Feb. 9, 2014 in Lake Charles, La.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Brandy Miller of DeRidder, La.; parents, Stephen and Pamela Miller of DeRidder, La.; brother, James Patrick Miller and wife Kristine of Wilmington, Del.; sister, Ginger Kemp and husband Terrance of DeRidder, La.; grandmothers, Gerayne Richardson and Claudine Miller both of DeRidder, La.; niece, Gabrielle; nephews, Dakota, Lathan and Keagan; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Patrick Richardson and James Miller, and aunt, Donna Richardson.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2014 at 2 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Beauregard Cemetery in DeRidder, La. 

Terri Miller
Terri Miller, age 53, passed from this life Thursday, Aug. 28, 2014, at her home in Albany, Or. Terri was born July 23, 1961 in Prairie du Sac, Wis. She was raised in Bon Wier, Texas and was a graduate of Newton High School.
For the past 25 years, Terri had made her home in Oregon. She joined Sunstone Circuits in 1996, where she worked as a Cam Technician for 18 years. Her passions included spending time with family and friends, shopping, photography and piloting hot air balloons. She also enjoyed antiques, making jewelry and recently took up playing the violin and was practicing to perform with the local symphony in December.
Terri was preceded in death by her father, Gerald A. Preston. Those left behind to cherish her memory are her daughters Rhiana McCall and husband Mike of Miranda, Ca., Andrea Miller of Miranda, Ca., mother and stepfather Frankie and Jack Cofty of DeRidder, La., brothers Adam Preston and wife Cindy of Jonestown, Tx., Jon Preston and wife Stacie of Lago Vista, Tx., and Heath Cofty and wife Beth of Bon Wier, Tx.; sisters Toni Blackmon and husband Scott of DeRidder, La., and Jackie Fajkus of Deerpark, Tx.; grandchildren Evan, Tucker and Madden. The family would like to thank all of Terri's dearest friends in Oregon for their love and support through this most difficult time. Services are pending. 

David Moore 
Graveside services for David Moore of DeRidder, were held on Thursday at 2 p.m. in the Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery near Fort Polk, La. Burial was under the direction of Jeane's Funeral Service of Leesville.
Mr. Moore, 71, was born October 23, 1942 to Jamess and Mollie Martin Moore in Pitkin, La. He was a Vietnam Veteran having served in the U.S. Navy. After serving his country he worked as a Merchant Marine traveling the oceans of the world. He loved to cook, garden and woodwork.
Preceding him in death was his parents, sister: Elaine Shackleford and brothers: James A. and Sam Moore
Survivors are: daughter: Heather Moore of Lake Charles, La., and son: Joshua Moore of Bristol, Tenn.; granddaughter: Taylor Moore of Briston, Tenn.; sister and brother-in-law: Bobbye and Clyde Gehron of DeRidder; and a host of nephews and nieces.
Visitation was Thursday in the Chapel of Jeane's Funeral Service 100 East Union St., Leesville, La. 

Catherine Diane Morrison
Funeral service for Catherine Diane Morrison, 55 of DeRidder, La., will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday, July 5, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder with Rev. Dalton Isabell and Rev. Eugene Williams officiating. Burial will follow in Spring Creek Cemetery in DeRidder, La., under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La. Catherine passed from this life on Wednesday, July 2, 2014, in Rosepine, La.
Visitation will be held on Friday, July 4, 2014, 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. and Saturday, July 5, 2014, 2 p.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home in DeRidder.
Catherine was born on Thursday, September 18, 1958, to Donald and Myrtle Brister Morrison in DeRidder, La., where she lived most of her life. She loved playing Bingo and spending time with her grandchildren. She was formerly employed as a route deliverer for the Beauregard Daily News. Catherine was a breast cancer survivor for 14 years.
She is survived by two daughters, Donna Nicole Vidrine and husband Mike of Laurel, Miss., and Patricia Danielle Noel and husband John of Leesville, La.; brother, William Morrison and wife Connie of DeRidder, La.; father, Charles Ray Hosey of DeRidder, LA and eight grandchildren. Catherine is preceded in death by her mother, Myrtle Faye Hosey and a brother, Daniel Felix Morrison. 

Earl Myers
Earl Myers, 71, of Rosepine, Louisiana, entered eternal rest on Monday, July 21, 2014 in Rosepine. Mr. Myers had a great love for his family, friends, and country.
Those left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory include his wife, Aurora Myers of Rosepine; four daughters, Vu Myers Babcock of Fairfield, California, Vu Mullins of Biloxi, Mississippi, Lynn Myers of Lafayette, Louisiana, and Teresa Shuler of Forest, Mississippi; two brothers, Carl Myers of Sebastopol, Mississippi and James Lee Myers, of Charlotte, North Carolina; five grandchildren and numerous extended family and friends.
Visitation will begin on Thursday, July 24, 2014 from 4-8 p.m. at Hixson Funeral Home in DeRidder, Louisiana. The funeral service will be on Friday, July 25, 2014 beginning at 10 a.m. at Hixson Funeral Home in DeRidder with Rev. Dennis Bjornberg officiating. Interment will follow at Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery. 

Ann Newman
Funeral service for Ann Marie Newman, 80, of DeRidder, La., will be held at 11:00 AM Wednesday, April 9, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder with Rev. Stuart Graves officiating. Burial will follow in Hampton Memorial Cemetery in Elizabeth, La., under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La. Mrs. Newman passed from this life on Monday, April 7, 2014, in DeRidder, La.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 8, 2014, 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at the funeral home in DeRidder and 9 a.m. on Wednesday until the time of the service.
Ann was born on October 22, 1933, to George and Margaret McDonald Smith at Worcester, Mass. She lived most of her life in Elizabeth, La., where she raised her family. Primarily a homemaker, she also worked as a waitress, a girls' softball coach, city councilwomen, a "Pink-Lady" at Beauregard Memorial Hospital and a member of the VFW Post 3619 in DeRidder. But most of all she was a loving wife and a proud mother and "Nanny" to many.
She is survived by 3 daughters, Cheryl Rabalais (Greg) of Crossett, Ark., Cindy Williams (Ned) of Elizabeth, La., and Lisa DeHoven (Alex) of DeRidder, La.; two sisters, Esther Krasnecky and Christine Tytula, both of North Brookfield, Mass.; daughter-in-law, Barbara Newman of Longville; special friend and adopted daughter, Pam Jordan of DeRidder and a host of grandchildren and great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Bobby Newman, Sr.; four sons, Bobby Newman, Jr., Michael Newman, Jimmy Newman and infant son, David Newman. 

Morris Pate - Nov. 6, 1940 – Jan. 15, 2014
Funeral services for Mr. Morris "Arkansas" Pate will be at 3 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 17, 2014 in Cherry Grove Baptist Church, Mittie, with the Rev. Ron Butler officiating.  Interment will follow in Cherry Grove Cemetery are under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Oakdale.
Mr. Pate, 73, of Mittie entered eternal rest on Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2014 in his residence.
"Arkansas" was known as the town mechanic.  He loved hunting, fishing, whittling and being outdoors.  He was a loving husband, father and grandfather.
He was preceded in death by his parents, R. C. Pate and Lucille Pate Lofton.
Those left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory include his loving wife of fifty-one years, Sue Pate of Mittie; one son, Wayne Pate of Mittie; three daughters, Janice Burgess and her husband, Tim of Mittie, Angelia Pate of Roanoke and Regina Pate Rials and her husband, Clay of Mittie; one sister, Melva Smith of Conroe, Texas; ten grandchildren and one great grandchild.
 Friends may call at Cherry Grove Baptist Church, Mittie on Thursday, Jan. 16, 2014 from 4 p.m. until time of services on Friday, Jan. 17, 2014 at 3 p.m. 

Jessica Perkins
Jessica Lea (Faltus) Perkins, 27, of Fairhaven, Mass., and Merryville, La., died Saturday at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston after a courageous battle with cancer. She was the wife of Adley W. Perkins.
Born in New Bedford, Mass., daughter of Bryon and Lori (Laviolette) Faltus, Jess had lived in Fairhaven most of her life having spent the past few years in Merryville with her husband and children.
She was a graduate of New Bedford Greater Vocational Technical High School, where she was Captain of the cheerleading squad for three years and later received her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Upper Iowa University in Ft. Polk, Louisiana. She was a member of Heart United Church in Evans, Louisiana.
She was a consultant with Mary Kay Cosmetics for the past year and a half, but most importantly focused on loving and caring for her three young children.
Jess was an avid hunter, enjoyed fishing and knitting.
Surviving in addition to her husband and parents are her two daughters, Lessie Ray and Story Laine Perkins; son, Leroy Jack Perkins; sister, Mallori Faltus of Fairhaven; brother, Corey B. Faltus of Fairhaven; many nieces and nephews, including her nephew, Elijah DeOliveira of Fairhaven; mothers and fathers-in-law, Doug and JuTina Singletary and Gary and Lori Perkins; newly acquired grandparents, Papa Jack and Marjorie Wooley, all of Louisiana and several brothers and sisters-in-law.
She was also the granddaughter of the late Captain Leroy Faltus and Elaine Braga Faltus.
Her funeral service was held in Massachusetts and a memorial service will be held at a later date in Louisiana. 

Ricky L. Perkins
Ricky L. Perkins, 54, of DeRidder, passed away Thursday, Jan. 9, 2014, at Fort Polk. A funeral service will be held Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2014, at 10 a.m. at Temple Baptist Church with the Revs. Frank Ott and Hurschel Davis officiating. Interment will be at Beauregard Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Monday, Jan. 13, 2014 from 4-8 p.m. at Chaddick Funeral Home.
He is survived his wife, Mary Perkins of DeRidder; a daughter, Brittany Perkins Nash and husband Christopher of Ragley; a son, Christopher Dereck Wilder of Lake Charles; two step-daughters, Jennifer Myers and husband Justin of DeRidder and Brittany Teston of DeRidder; a step-son, John Yielding of Pitkin; eight grandchildren, Candice, Tristan, Timothy, Dakota, Elijah, Karlee Jo, Mary Beth and Justin, Jr.; his mother, Irene Perkins of DeRidder; and a host of family and friends. 

William Pippin, Sr.
William B. Pippin, Sr., 86, was called to his heavenly home on Monday, June 23, 2014 surrounded by his loving family. Although he resided in Calcasieu Parish for his last 30 years, Beauregard Parish was called "Home". He was in the U.S. Army and served in Guam from 1946-1947. W.B. retired in 1987, from Levingston Shipbuilding in Orange, Texas.
W. B. is survived by his spouse, Patricia Pippin; son, William B. (Brad) Pippin, Jr. and wife Becky; daughter, Cindy Pippin and Joe Mulkey; grandson, Chris Pippin; granddaughter, Nikki Pippin Cormier; great grandchildren, Tristyn, Lakyn, Gage, Corbin, and Leah; sister, Maxine Gammon of Round Rock, TX; brother, Jack Dean Pippin, Sr. of Knight, La.; numerous nieces and nephews; stepchildren, Angela Currie and Perry Hollier. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd L. and Helen Eason Pippin; daughter, Debra Ann Pippin; and sister, Louise Bellew.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, June 25, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. A celebration of life will be held in the chapel of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, LA on Thursday, June 26, 2014 at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in Hinson Cemetery in the Knight Community, La. Brother Rob Tibbitts will officiate. 

Norma Corinne Planche 
Norma Corinne Planche of DeRidder, La., was born Oct. 24, 1940, in Varnado, La., to Louis and Pollyann Williams Seal. She passed from this life on Jan. 13, 2014, at the Beauregard Memorial Hospital in DeRidder.
Norma graduated from Varnado High School in 1959. Working as a secretary at the Tullos Motor Company in Bogalusa, La., she met Joseph Brewster Planche. They were married on Feb. 28, 1962, in Fort Bragg, N.C.
After being stationed in several places in the United States and abroad, Norma and her family were transferred to Fort Polk, La., and began making their home in DeRidder in 1977. After retiring from the US Army in 1980, the Planches decided to remain in DeRidder. Norma's beloved husband passed away after a short illness in 1985.
Norma remained in DeRidder until her death. She kept a beautiful home for her family, ran a family farm, volunteered in her children's classrooms, and welcomed everyone into her life with a warm smile. She especially enjoyed entertaining her children's friends. After Scott and Pam moved from home, Norma ran a daycare and loved neighborhood and community children for over 10 years. She was known as Ms. Norma and was adored by many in DeRidder. Norma was an avid fan of LSU and the New Orleans Saints, as well as all sports. She was a member of First Baptist Church, DeRidder.
Besides her parents and her husband, Norma was preceded in death by a sister, Mata Lee Easterling, a brother, Milton Seal and a granddaughter, Daisy Elizabeth Higle.
Norma is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Scott and Debbie Planche of Deridder, La.; one daughter and son-in-law, Pam and Jeremy Higle of Leh, India; five grandchildren: J.T. and Dominique Broussard of Youngsville; Joseph, Titus, and Isaac Higle of Leh, India; four brothers: Perry Seal, Hilton and wife Myrtle Lee Seal, Leon and wife Wilma Seal, and Silmon Seal, all of Angie, La.; two sisters: Silvia Seal Slade and husband Kenneth; Annette Seal Thomas and husband Mike, all also of Angie.
She is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews, as well as many friends.
Funeral services are set for Wednesday, Jan. 15, at 10 a.m. in the First Missionary Baptist Church in Angie. Burial will be in the Williams Cemetery, also in Angie. These services will be under the direction of Crain Funeral Home in Franklinton, La.
There will also be a memorial service for Norma at the First Baptist Church in DeRidder on Thursday, Jan. 16, at 2 p.m. 

Marie Ann Reder
Marie Ann Reder, 59, of Pelican, La., passed away Tuesday, May 20, 2014 at Willis Knighton Medical Center in Bossier City, La.
Visitation will be Saturday, May 24, 2014 from 11:30 a.m. until time of service at Mt. Canaan Baptist Church. A funeral service will be held Saturday, May 24, 2014 at 1 p.m. at Mt. Canaan Baptist Church, officiated by the Rev. Louis F. Guy. Interment will follow at Beauregard Cemetery.
Marie is survived by four daughters, Paulette Branum and Walter of DeRidder; Molly Reed of Lake Charles; Martha A. Reder of DeRidder; and Rose Springer of DeRidder; 13 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and one brother, Bonnie Rae Anderson of DeRidder. 

Mary Roberts
Mary Evelyn Frey Roberts, 95, of Merryville, La., passed from this life on Tuesday, April 1, 2014 at Rosepine Ret. and Rehab. Mrs. Roberts graduated from Saline High School in 1935 and graduated with a B.S. from Louisiana Normal College in Natchitoches in 1940. She was a teacher at the age of 18 years old at Merryville High School where she taught for 30 years in 5th grade, 3rd grade, jr. high and high school English. She was an active member of Merryville First Baptist Church all of her adult life and served as a Sunday School Teacher, church librarian and Vacation Bible School Director for many years and sang in the adult choir. Mrs. Roberts served as Merryville Town Council Alderman for 14 years. She was a member of the Merryville Book Club, Garden Club, and Historical Society, a lifetime member of Priscilla Chapter #58 Order of Eastern Star, and Delta Kappa Gamma. She served on the Beauregard Parish Police Jury Committee and Beauregard Parish Retired Teachers and was a "Pink Lady" at Merryville General Hospital. After retirement she babysat grandchildren and was a substitute teacher at MHS. Mrs. Roberts was honorary RRRC Beauty Queen at Rosepine Ret. and Rehab.
Those left to cherish her memory are her son, Dr. Gary Roberts and wife Martha; and daughter, Robbie Havens and husband Bruce, all of Merryville, La.; grandchildren, Barrett Roberts, Chris Roberts, Summer Bishop, Jaime Bell, and Matthew Havens; great grandchildren, Bryson, Brooklyn and Mason Roberts; Shelby and Kensley Bishop; Brett and Kirsten Bell; Jackson and Tatum Havens. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Sam H. Roberts, Jr.; and sister, Thomie Claire Aumiller.
Visitation will be held Thursday, April 3, 2014 at Merryville First Baptist Church in Merryville, La., from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. Funeral services will be Friday, April 4, 2014 at 1 p.m. at Merryville First Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Merryville Cemetery. Bro. Wayne Squyres will officiate. Funeral services are under the direction of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. 

Lol Sampson
Lol Rue Louis Sampson, 79, of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Friday, July 4, 2014 in Lake Charles, La. Those left to cherish her memory are her sons, Clarence Dixon and Commodore Dixon; daughters, Janice Dixon, Jane Cornell Lewis Randle, Carlos Jones Mackey and husband Robert, and Carolyn Jones; brother, Elder Tommy Jordan; grandchildren, Shasda, Kedrick, and Faith Randle, Carlon D. Jones, Bryon and Melissa Lindsey; five great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Artis Louis; brother, Willie J. Lewis; grandchildren, Clarence Dixon and Alicia Dixon.
Visitation and Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2014 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in DeRidder, La. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m. Rev. Charlie Fields will officiate. Burial will follow at Beauregard Cemetery in DeRidder, La.
Services are under the direction of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. 

Margarette Schales
Margarette Elaine Cole Schales, 89, of DeRidder, Louisiana entered eternal peace on Saturday, June 21st, 2014 in DeRidder, Louisiana.
Mrs. Schales was preceded in death by her parents, Abner and Nellie Cole. Those left to mourn her loss and cherish her memory are one son, Abner Dewey Schales of DeRidder, LA; one daughter, Pepper Schales-Elkins of Newport News, VA; one brother, Jack Douglas Cole of DeRidder, LA; one sister, Billie Gean Harper of DeRidder, LA; four grandchildren; nine great grandchildren and numerous extended family and friends.
Mrs. Schales was a member of the Southwest Day Lily Club and was the last living Charter Member of Friendship Chapter #210 Order of the Eastern Star, established in 1946. She was a member of Smyrna Baptist Church where family and friends are invited to celebrate her life with a memorial service Saturday June 28 at 4 PM.
Arrangements by Hixson Funeral Home of DeRidder, Louisiana. 

Illma Ann Scott
Illma Ann Scott, 67, of DeRidder, passed from this life on Monday, Jan. 6, 2014. Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Zachary; her daughters, Shree' Simpson Edwards of Moss Bluff, La,, Carla Simpson Barriffe(husband, Kenneth) of Raleigh, NC, Jamie Simpson Williams(husband, Keith) of Raleigh; and son Jathan Scott of Raleigh, N.C.
Ann is survived by seven grandchildren: Carla's(Brioni, Ryan, Jairus, and Jamin), Shree's(Brittany), and Jamie's (Jayden and Kayla); her sisters, Alvia Jean Ramsey, Lois Jean Jenkins, and Hytha Laverne Grimble; her brother, Ovie Lewis Randolph; her nieces, Alonna Chell Richards, Sharmagne Taylor, Mellinee Wynette Grimble and many others.    
Illma was preceded in death by her adoptive parents(Louis and Illma Gertrude Blair), her biological parents(Alvin and Sarah Randolph) and several other siblings.  In 1969, Illma Ann was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses. She was disabled by Early-onset Alzheimer's disease in the mid 2000s, but from that time back to the early years of the 1970s, she enjoyed the door-to-door ministry with family and friends in the Jasper, Texas and DeRidder areas. Her favorite pastimes were gardening, cooking/baking, and watching old movie musicals.
A memorial service for Illma Ann will be held on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2014 at 2 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses in Rosepine, 17440 Lake Charles U.S. 171. 

Irma D. Scott
Funeral service for Irma D. Scott, 94, of DeRidder, La., will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, 2014, at Star of Bethlehem Baptist Church with Dr. Keith Stevenson officiating. Burial will follow in Community Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2014, 9 a.m. until the service at the church.
Irma Dela Scott of DeRidder, LA departed this life on Feb. 17, 2014, at the age of 94. She was born on Feb. 8, 1920 in Westlake, La., to Joseph and Lovie Tillman. She was a faithful member of Good Hope Baptist Church in Westlake, La., and Star of Bethlehem Baptist Church in DeRidder, La. Irma married Earl Broussard, Sr. in 1951 until he departed this life in 1979. From this marriage she leaves to mourn two sons, Earl Broussard, Jr. of DeRidder, La., and Noble Broussard, Sr. and wife Mary Louise of El Paso, Texas; three daughters, Bobbie Jackson and husband Issac of Lake Charles, Emma Rose Lamotthe of Dallas, Texas, and Bernadine Davy of Texas City, Texas. From this marriage there are eight grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and 5 great, great grandchildren.
In 1982, she was united with Robert Scott of DeRidder, La., until he departed this life in 2006, and from this marriage she leaves to mourn 4 children, Janice Hadnott of Richmond, Va., Camille Freeman and husband James of Calif., Marceliers Scott and wife Faith of DeRidder, La., and Martin Scott and wife Roberta of DeRidder, La.; 10 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. 

William "Billy" Shirley
BREAUX BRIDGE - A Memorial Service will be held at 3 p.m., on Sunday, June 29, 2014, at Teche Baptist Church in Breaux Bridge, for William "Billy" Shirley, 77, who passed away on Thursday, June 26, 2014, at Lafayette General Medical Center in Lafayette, La.
Rev. Joe Jenkins, Pastor, and Rev. Bill Inman, Associate Pastor, will conduct the Memorial Service.
Mr. Shirley was an educator for 34 years in Beauregard Parish. After his retirement he was employed by Mobile Health Testing Services for 15 years and later worked at WalMart in the hardware department for two years.
He was a member of the Board of Directors of the Beauregard School Employees Federal Credit Union for 36 years and the Grand Lodge of the State of Louisiana for 51 years.
He is survived by his wife, Bobbie Cooley Shirley of Breaux Bridge, La.; two daughters, Lisa Shirley Kiper and her husband, Malcolm of Three Rivers, Texas, and Lynnette Shirley Allemond and her husband, Chris of Henderson, LA; his sister, Gail Sadden and her husband, Dean of DeRidder, LA; his grandson, Daniel Allemond and his fiancée, Maggie Jarreau; and several nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, William Earl "Bill" Shirley, Sr. and Gladys Shirley; and his brother, Charles Lee Shirley.
Pellerin Funeral Home (337.332.2111), is in charge of arrangements. 

Marice Simmons
Marice Louis Simmons, 51, of DeRidder passed from this life on Thursday, June 12, 2014 at his home. Visitation will be held on Monday, June 16, 2014 from 12-8 p.m. and Tuesday, June 17 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m., the time of service, which will be held at Chaddick Funeral Home. Rev. Frank Hensley will officiate the funeral service, after which Mr. Simmons will be interred at Whitaker Cemetery. Marice Simmons is survived by his wide, Dorli Simmons of DeRidder; three daughters, LaTissa Miller of Atlanta, Georgia, Lacey Simmons of Oberlin, and Destiney Simmons of Mittle; one son, Glendon Simmons of DeRidder; three grandchildren, DeVanté Simmons, NeVaeh Simmons and Benjamin McCartney; two sisters, Anita Carlisle of Simpson and Barbara Wirsing of DeRidder; three brothers, James Simmons of Denham Springs, Obie Simmons of Denham Springs, and Rodger Simmons of DeRidder; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. 

Roy Charley Skaggs
Funeral services for Roy Charley Skaggs, 98, of Longville, La., will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, March 7, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in DeRidder. Burial will follow in the Memorial Baptist Church Cemetery, in Longville under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder.
Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. - 9 p.m., Thursday, March 6, 2014, at the funeral home.
Roy, the son of Ernest B. and Lena Myrtle Haley Skaggs was born May 26, 1915, in Atlanta, Missouri. He passed away Wednesday, March 5, 2014, in Rosepine, La.
Mr. Skaggs worked for Crystal Oil for twenty five plus years. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sons, Bennie Ray Skaggs and Thomas Reid.
He is survived his wife of 42 years, Betty Skaggs of Longville, La.; sons, Frank Skaggs of Oklahoma, Willard Earl Reid, Jr., of Ferriday, La., & Aaron Reid of Longville, La.; daughters, Edith Fontenot of Lake Charles, La., Ann Cathey of Hammond, La., & Michelle Reid of Longville, La., and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. 

Jerry D. Slatten
Funeral services for Jerry D. Slatten, 76, of Deridder, Louisiana will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, June 27, 2014, at the Labby Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in DeRidder with Rev. Roger Gill and Ed Tilley officiating. Burial will follow in the Beauregard Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder.
Visitation was held Thursday, June 26, from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m., and will be held on Friday, June 27, from 9 a.m. until service time in the chapel.
Jerry, the son of James & Gertrude Danzy Slatten was born July 12, 1937 in Leesville, Louisiana. He passed away on Tuesday June 24, 2014 in the Beauregard Memorial Hospital in DeRidder.
Jerry was a 1955 graduate of Simpson High School. He moved to DeRidder in 1969 were he worked as the Manager of LNO Furniture for over 40 years.
He was preceded in death by his parents James & Gertrude Danzy Slatten and his Grandparents Mack and Lonnie Danzy.
Mr. Slatten is survived by: His wife of 57 years: Marie Slatten of DeRidder, La.; His Children: Jerry and Kimmie Slatten, Jr. of DeRidder, La., Todd & Barbara Slatten of Rosepine, La., Sonya and Kenny Patz of Evans, La., Laura & Chris Culotta and their children of Bossier, La.; Four Grandchildren: Marli Westfall, Shelby Slatten, Jordan Slatten, Kenli Patz. 

Bobby Earl Slaydon, Sr., 
Bobby Earl Slaydon, Sr., 73, of DeRidder, La., left this world for his heavenly home on Monday, Jan. 13, 2014, from Acadian Medical Center in Eunice, La.
Bobby was born on Dec. 26, 1940, in DeRidder to Nick and Dewel Slaydon. He was a 1960 graduate of DeRidder High School and thereafter attended college at Hinds Jr. College in Mississippi.  He was married to Shirley Ann Smith of Merryville, La., from November 1962 until death did they part this past Monday night.  Bobby was an outstanding football player in high school and college.  He also played semi-pro football for the Lake Charles Pelicans. He is listed as a member of the All-Time DeRidder Football Team along with other area great players.  He began attending Beth-El Apostolic Church in 1998 where he was a Charter Member.  He was baptized in the beautiful name of Jesus in 2002.  He loved to sing specials and "tell the story of Jesus and His glory."
Bobby is survived by his loving wife, Shirley for 51 years; two sons, Bobby Earl Slaydon, Jr. and wife Karen of Florien, LA and Kevin Lee Slaydon of DeRidder, La.; one daughter, Anna Lisa Pollock and husband Troy of Anacoco, La.; 1 sister, Linda Crain and husband Jimmy of DeRidder, La.; one brother, Webster Slaydon of Lumberton, Texas;  two brothers-in-law, Bob Spurlock of Porter, Texas, and Edwin Smith and wife Lynne of Hampshire, England; one sister-in-law, Charlotte Fountain and husband Jerry of Merryville, La.; nine grandchildren, Leah, Logan, Kara, Jacob, Aaron, Laci, Sadie, Nick and Amber; 1 great granddaughter, Harleigh and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.  He is preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Ray Slaydon, one sister, Lula Faye Spurlock and two sisters-in-law, Bessie Slaydon and Marie Slaydon.
Visitation will be Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2014, from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Beth-El Apostolic Church in DeRidder.  Funeral services will be held Thursday, Jan. 16, 2014, at 11 a.m. at Beth-El Apostolic Church, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La.  Services will be conducted by Pastor Trent Holman, Rev. George L. Glass, Jr and Bobby Earl Slaydon, Jr.  Interment will be at Cooper Cemetery on U.S. 190 West of DeRidder. 

Floyd Smith, Sr.
A graveside service for Floyd Earl Smith, Sr., 89, of Pitkin, La., was held at 2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 11, 2014, at Lone Star Cemetery, Pitkin, La., under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La. Mr. Smith passed from this life on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2014, in Rosepine, La.
Floyd was born on Saturday, March 28, 1925, to Adam and Ella Hartman Smith in Nunez, La. He proudly served in the United States Navy and Merchant Marines and he was also a member of Lone Star Baptist Church in Pitkin, La.
He is survived by 1 son, Floyd Smith, Jr. and wife Janis of Edmonds, WA; 1 daughter, Patricia G. Jansen of Edmonds, WA. 

Velmer Lenora Smith 
Velmer Lenora Smith passed away at home in DeRidder, Louisiana, on Friday, May 16, 2014. Her body has been donated to LSU School of Medicine, Shreveport. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 31, at 11 a.m. at Redeemer Lutheran Church in DeRidder, La.
Velmer Smith had a love for Louisiana and an even greater fondness for DeRidder. She tried to share that love through her historical preservation endeavors. To her credit is the establishment of the WW II War Room Museum along with a WWII Weapons Room at the War Memorial Civic Center (USO).
Beauregard Parish wildflowers were her passion. She explored and engaged in wildflower research in the Bundick Swamp area of our Parish.
She documented and had to her credit the discovery of two new species in Beauregard Parish; Catchfly and Pussy Toes. She was considered to be an amateur naturalist and had established a collection of animals indigenous to the area that were donated to the Beauregard Tourist Commission.
Among her interests were historic preservation, research and writing. She was instrumental in having the * Beauregard Training School, which is an African American site, on Martin Luther Drive; * three sawmill era houses in the vicinity of Fourth Street; as well as the * USO, in DeRidder, placed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is the First USO to be completed for use by the military during WWII.
As a tribute to WWII Airmen who lost their lives in training accidents, she was instrumental in having the DeRidder Army Air Base Historic Marker situated by the Airport along the Highway 190, on the Atakapa-Coushatta Trace Scenic Byway. She also paved the way for a Historic Marker commemorating the birth place of Sam H. Jones, Louisiana Governor 1940-1944, to be placed adjacent to Highway 110, across from Merryville High School.
To her credit is the placement of a historic marker commemorating the foot trails of the Atakapa Ishak, adjacent to Highways 111 and 190 Westbound, at the Junction, as a reminder that the Atakapa Ishak were the aboriginal Native Americans of the Beauregard Parish area.
She has been an avid collector of Atakapa Ishak artifacts, and these, too, are on display at the Atakapa-Coushatta Welcome Center in Merryville, Louisiana.
She enjoyed writing human interest or historical sketches about local people and places. She is the author of the book, "The Best of Yesterday…Today" which is a history of the Sabine River and "No Man's Land" and featured folk art by Merryville folk artist, the late Gussie Townsley.
Among her endeavors were developing web sites about area people and historical places including a web site about the old gothic jail, the true account about the murder and subsequent double hanging in 1928.
She acknowledged that none of her endeavors could have been accomplished without the cooperation of the many wonderful people in Beauregard Parish.
Velmer Smith, born in DeRidder, Louisiana, was reared between Sheboygan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Her grandfather, originally from Germany, played the organ at the local Lutheran Church. Her father, a musician, played the German concertina on the radio, as well as played and wrote music for the bandoneon.
Throughout her life, she served in various positions at Redeemer Lutheran Church and for many years as Financial Secretary of the church.
She is survived by her son, Alan of DeRidder and two granddaughters: Dr. Ashley Smith, San Antonio, Texas and Elise Smith, Fort Collins, Colorado. 

Maxie Ann Sonnier
Funeral service for Maxie Ann Sonnier, 68, of DeRidder, La., will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 9, at Broadlands Bible Church, 6423 U.S. 171, DeRidder, La., (337-462-0257). Jason Dripps will officiate. Burial will follow in Beauregard Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2014, 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in DeRidder and Sunday, March 9, 2014, 1 p.m. at the church.
Maxie was born on Friday, October 19, 1945, to Albert and Chrystal Schutz Hauser in DeRidder, La., and reared on Hauser Road in Beauregard Parish. She lived in Opelousas, LA for seventeen years then returning to Hauser Road in 1992. She was a graduate of Longville High School where she was active in sports and a leader in other student activities. She was a graduate of McNeese State University with an Associate Degree in Secretarial Science. Most of her life was spent as a house wife and as a church and community volunteer. Maxie was employed by the U.S. Postal Service from 1995 until her retirement in 2012. She enjoyed gardening, yard work, fishing, turkey hunting and all events with her grandchildren. She passed from this life on Thursday, March 6, 2014, in Lake Charles Memorial Hospital.
Survivors include her husband, James Kerney Sonnier of DeRidder, La.; son, Jason Dripps and wife Alma of Summit, MS; daughters, Jennifer Stanford of Ferriday, La., Julie Bellard and husband Nick of Church Point, La., Jessica Sonnier of Lake Charles, La.; brother, Ray Hauser of DeRidder, La.; sister, Dana Hauser of Lake Charles, La.; six grandchildren, Kirstie Bieber, Lane and MacKenzie Stanford, August, Emery and Georgia Bellard. Maxie was preceded in death by her parents, first husband, Eugene Dripps and stepson, Everett Sonnier. 

Joseph Leroy Spell
Joseph Leroy Spell, 89 of Merryville, La., passed from this life on Sunday, March 23, 2014. Mr. Spell was a native of Crowley, La., but grew up in Port Arthur, Texas. He worked in construction as an electrician and was a member of IBEW Local 479 for 20 years. He attended local Baptist Churches and loved to garden and to metal detect, shoot guns and be Pop-Pop to his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Those left to cherish his memory are his sons, Ronald "Ron" Spell of Merryville, LA, Michael "Mike" Spell and wife Sally of Port Arthur, Texas, and Timothy "Tim" Spell and wife Melissa of San Leon, Texas; grandchildren, Cade Spell and wife Jennifer, Tate Spell and wife Melissa, Kaley Spell, Todd Spell and Timothy Spell; great grandchildren, Avery, Siena, Arthur, Simeon, and Levi Spell.
Visitation and funeral services were held Tuesday, March 25, 2014 at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Burial followed in Bivens Cemetery in Bivens, La. Rev. Lindsey Burns will officiated. 

Clara Grace Stanly Spence
Clara Grace Stanly Spence, 89, of Rosepine was called home on Friday, March 7, 2014 at Byrd Memorial Hospital in Leesville.
She was born on Belview Road, Leesville, La., on Nov. 14, 1924 to parents Clara Stephens and Major Finly Stanly. She grew up in Leesville, graduating from Leesville High School in 1941. She continued her education at Northwestern State College where she received a degree in Vocational Home Economics. She then started her teaching career at Rosepine High School. Later she became one of the first females in the parish to earn a Master's Degree in Education by attending summer sessions at the University of Arkansas.
She taught Vocational Home Economics at Pitkin High School for many years. It was the highlight of a young girl's life when she received a bridal shower given by Mrs. Spence. After retiring from teaching she and her husband moved from Pitkin to Rosepine, where she and her husband enjoyed the hobby of raising Beef Master Cattle.
She was active in the First Baptist Church of Pitkin and then also at Diamond Baptist Church. She was a member of the Retired Teacher's Association. She also was a 64 year member of the Beta Sigma Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma where she served as past president of Sigma Chapter in 1960-62. She was known as an excellent cook and seamstress. She was a beloved member of her church, her community and her family.
She is survived by her nieces, Brenda and husband, Charles Bealer of Leesville; Becky and husband, Vince King of Denton, Texas; Sarah and husband, Kevin McKinney of Denton, Texas; Liz and husband, Tom Driggers of Reston, Virginia and Ruth and husband, Charlie Salvaggio of Tokyo, Japan (permanent residents of Columbia, Maryland).
First Cousin: Thelma Ruth Stephens Childs and husband, John O. of Tyler, Texas.
Special in-laws: Archie Spence, Lucille Spence and Betty Jo Spence Anderson.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Jesse Jackson Spence;
son, Stephen Jackson Spence and brothers, Finly Stephens Stanly and Thomas Jackson Stanly.
Visitation will be at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in DeRidder from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Monday, March 10. Funeral services will be at Diamond Baptist Church in Rosepine, La., on Tuesday, March 11, 2014, at 11 a.m. Burial will be at Lewis Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La.

Sherman Spikes
On Monday, Jan. 6, 2014, Sherman Spikes, 75, of DeRidder, La., departed this life to rejoin his beloved wife JoAnn Hebert Spikes, who preceded him in death.
He leaves to cherish his memory, daughter Traci Spikes from Newport, N.C., son Rodney Spikes and wife Vicki from Shreveport, La., brother Norman Spikes and wife Mary from Shirley, Ark., sister Aline Crain from Westlake, La., special friends Kenneth and Phyllis McBride, Dry Creek, La., five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, Jan. 11, 2014, at 2 p.m. at Macedonia Church at the Merryville Junction. The family requests no flowers. Officiating is Brother Gerald Reed. 

Jeremy Wayne Squyres
Jeremy Wayne Squyres, 41, of Merryville, La., passed from this life on Saturday, April 5, 2014 at his home.
Those left to cherish his memory are his parents, Rev. Wayne and Sharon Squyres of Merryville, La.; brother, Josh Squyres and wife Katlynn of DeRidder, LA; nephew, Joseph Wayne Squyres; niece, Hadleigh Elizabeth Squyres. He was preceded in death by his brother, Isaac Squyres.
Funeral services are Wednesday, April 9, 2014 at 2 p.m. at New Hope Baptist Church in Calcasieu, La. Burial will follow at New Hope Baptist Church Cemetery in Calcasieu, La. Rev. Wayne Squyres will officiate. 

Andy L. Stark
Andy L. Stark, 75, passed on to be with our Lord and Savior Jesus on Jan. 2, 2014 at his residence. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 1/2 years, Bennie Martin Stark of Merryville, La.; sons, Pard Stark and fiancee' Eva Nichols of Merryville, La., Arrie Stark and wife Marilyn of Merryville, La., Tod Stark and wife Becky of Pineland, Texas, and Floyd Stark and wife Sabrina of Merryville, La.; daughters, Misty Barlow and husband Dalton of Merryville, La., Mikki Mahfouz and husband George of DeRidder, La., and Mandi Cournoyer and husband Michael of Merryville, La.; brother, Mance Stark and wife Linda of Merryville, La.; sister, JoAnn "Sukie" Powers of Merryville, La.; 26 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and numerous nephews and nieces. He is preceded in death by his parents, Leonard H. and Catherine F. Stark. Visitation will be held on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2014 from 3 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La., and will resume at 10 a.m., Monday, January 6, 2014 until time of service at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Merryville, La. Burial will follow at the Andy and Bennie Stark Family Cemetery on Pullem Branch Rd in Merryville. Pastor Wayne Squyres will officiate.
Mr. Stark was a lifelong resident of Merryville, La. He graduated from Merryville High School in 1956, attended college, and played football for USL. He had been employed at Boise for 34 years and served as Union President for about 10 years. He had a strong, loving, and compassionate desire for family values. He enjoyed hunting deer with his hounds, trot-line fishing, and ranching. He also enjoyed sports as well as teaching it. A very special thanks goes out to Dr. Henry Goolsby and staff, especially, Amanda and Kyla; hospice care by Laura and Tiffany; and care given at Women and Children's Hospital in Lake Charles. We would like to thank everyone for all the prayers and support from other family and friends over the last eight years. He will truly be missed by all. 

Cecil Stewart 
Cecil Monett Stewart was born September 16, 1949 in DeRidder, La., to the late Auther and Curlie Stewart. He was called to his heavenly home on July 22, 2014. He was united in marriage to Janice on Dec. 6, 1975 in California. They moved to DeRidder in 1976. To this union two sons were born.
Cecil worked for Boiuse Southern paper mill from 1976 until his retirement. Cecil was very active in the community and organized God's Enlisted Men in 2000. The goal of this organization was to better the quality of life for the youth and elderly of the community. He organized Community Development Networking Committee (CDNC) in 2008. Through this organization, he sponsored the Willie Brown Football Camp and the Johnny Jones/Dave Simmons Basketball Camp.
Cecil joined Sweet Home Baptist Church at an early age and later united with Mt. Zion Baptist Church. At Mt. Zion he served as a member of the Brotherhood and Usher Ministry until his death.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Curlie Stewart. Those left to cherish his memories are: Janice, his wife of 38 years; two sons, Wayne (Fay) Sims of Baton Rouge, La.; Cecil Stewart, Jr. DeRidder, Special daughter, Qiana Chavis of DeRidder, Godson Eric Cooper Jr., two brothers: Ed (Pearl Taylor) Stewart of DeRidder and Arthur (Loretta) Stewart, Jr. of Idabel, Oklahoma; two sisters: Gloria Taylor and Dell M. Baily of DeRidder; one uncle Emmitt (Delores) Armstrong, Jr. of Houston, Texas; two aunts: Delorise Jones and Eddie (Calava) Ransom of DeRidder; four grandchildren: Justin (Great Pumpkin) Derouselle, Elijah Stewart, Wade Sims and Cecil Stewart III. Three special family friends: Dorothy Stewart, Susie Davis and Elmo Monroe. A host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
Visitation will be held Monday, July 28, from 6-8 p.m. and services will be Tuesday, July 29, at 11 a.m., both at Mt. Zion Baptist Church.
Services were entrusted to Braxton Funeral Home in DeRidder. Interment will be at Beauregard Cemetery. 

Edward M. Stracener
Edward M. "Ed" Stracener, 71, of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Friday, Jan. 10, 2014 at Beauregard Memorial Hospital. Ed was born and lived most of his life in Horse Branch, La. He was a retired plumber and served in the Army. Those left to cherish his memory are his son, Edward Dale Stracener of DeRidder; daughters, Darleen Mahaffey of Pitkin, Marleen Cormier of DeRidder and Kathaleen Rackley of DeRidder; brothers, Ben and Gerald Stracener; sisters, Florence Haselden, Nancy Ferguson, and Christine Prather; 10 grandchildren and one great grandchild. He was preceded in death by his son, Douglas Edward Stracener; parents, Barney and Daisy Stracener; brothers, John L. Stracener, Beaver Ray Stracener, and George Stracener; sisters, Daisy L. Stracener, Zade L. Stracener, and Mertie Tilton.
A graveside service was held on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2014 at 10 a.m. at Smyrna Cole Cemetery in Cole Central Community. Bro. Arlen Smith officiated. Funeral services were under the direction of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder. 

Floyd Finley Stracener
Funeral services for Floyd Finley Stracener, 60, of Rosepine, La., will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La., with the Rev. Dalton Isabel officiating. Burial will follow in Smyrna Cole Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder.
Visitation will be held from 8:30 a.m., Saturday until the time of the service at the funeral home.
Floyd was born on Sunday, Aug. 9, 1953, to Lillie Weldon Stracener and Allis C. Stracener at DeRidder, La. He attended BARC in DeRidder and was a member of the Texas Avenue Baptist Church. He loved the Special Olympics and wrestling.  Floyd passed from this life on Thursday, Jan. 16, 2014, at the Rosepine Retirement & Rehabilitation Center.
He is survived by two brothers, David H. Stracener of Merryville, La., and Michael Victor Stracener of Elizabeth, La., and two sisters, Lois Dale Smith of Leesville, La., and Betty L. Gill of DeRidder, La.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Allis C. Stracener and Lillie Stracener. 

Jewell Parker Stracener 
Services for Mrs. Jewell Parker Stracener will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, Jan. 10, 2014 in the Chapel of Hixson Brothers, Alexandria with Reverend Joe Nugent and Reverend Joey Rudisill officiating. Burial will be in Hemphill Star Cemetery, Boyce.
The family requests that visitation be observed Thursday at Hixson Brothers, Alexandria from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. and will continue on Friday from 8 a.m. until time of service.
Mrs. Stracener, 88, of Alexandria passed away, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2014 at 6:32 p.m., in Home Place Hospice of East Texas, Tyler, Texas.
She was member of Lahey Chapel Methodist Church . Mrs. Stracener graduated from Boyce High School and Alexandria Business College. During her working career she was a secretary for Mid-State and Gravel.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Johnnie "Jack" Alton Stracener; parents, David Obie and Evie Long Parker; sister, Dovie Ward; brother, O'Neal Parker.
Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Judith "Judy" Doughty and husband, Arthur of Bullard, Texas; granddaughters, Cammie Cowart and husband, Glen of Bullard, Texas, Amber Taylor and husband, Wesley of DeRidder, La., and Courtney Montgomery and husband, Chuck of DeRidder; twelve great grandchildren, Doughty McCall Cowart, James Camden Cowart, Jacelyn Aubrey Cowart, Laurel Eden Cowart, Emerson Nicole Cowart, Jack Hayes Cowart, Parker Grant Taylor, Richmann Coy Taylor, Lynlee Raye Taylor, Audrey Belle Montgomery, Charles Patton Montgomery and Cassle Mann Montgomery.
Pallbearers will be Glen Cowart, Wesley Taylor, Chuck Montgomery, Ronnie Bryant, Robert Parker, Victor Eyre, W. R. Long and Jerry Ward. Honorary pallbearers will be Parker Taylor, Coy Taylor, Camden Cowart, Hayes Cowart, Patton Montgomery, Cassle Montgomery. 

Mary Swain
Funeral service for Mary Swain, 62, of Rosepine, La., will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, March 19, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in DeRidder, LA, with Rev. Arlen Smith officiating. Private burial will be at a later date in Drakes Fork Cemetery. Cremation was entrusted to Labby Memorial Funeral Home in DeRidder.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 18, 2014, from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m., and Wednesday, March 19, 2014, from 9 a.m. until time of the funeral at the funeral home in DeRidder
Mary was born on Dec. 15, 1951, to Oscar Earl and Mollie Betty Mullins Swain in San Bernardino, Calif. She also lived in Lake Charles, La., prior to settling in DeRidder. Although a homemaker for most of her life, Mary had worked in the offshore oil industry as a cook. She loved to play bingo, keno, yatzee and other games with her family. Mary was a "communicator" who loved her family and loved spoiling her grandchildren. She passed from this life on Sunday, March 16, 2014, in Beauregard Memorial Hospital in DeRidder.
Mary is survived by her husband of 42 years Johnny Swain of Rosepine, La.: one son, Oscar Swain and wife Felecia of Rosepine: brother, Alvin Earl Deason of Las Vegas, Nev.: sister, Maxine Hollaert of Apple Valley, Calif.: one granddaughter: and an extended family of eight "grandchildren" two nieces, Angie and Patty, and many other nieces and nephews. 

Armedia Taylor
Funeral services for Armedia Taylor, 92, of Anacoco, Louisiana will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 16, 2014, at the Labby Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Leesville. Burial will follow in the Mitchell Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of Leesville.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, April 15, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m., and on Wednesday, April 16, from 8 a.m. until service time in the chapel.
Mrs. Taylor was a devoted mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great great grandmother was born on July 1, 1921, to James and Odessa Miers Marze. She was married to Marion Taylor on January 20, 1940. Together in that union they had five children.
She was preceded in death by her parents; eight siblings; husband, Marion Taylor; daughter, Vadie Taylor Marshall; two granddaughters, Vada Armedia Miller and Sonja Taylor Goins, and one great granddaughter, Autumn Rae Goins.
Those left to cherish her memory, her children, Roger Taylor (Betty) of Anacoco, Sidney Taylor (Connie) of Houma, Steven Taylor of Orange Park, Fla., and Laura Taylor Watson (Lenny) of Anacoco; siblings, Alvin Marze of Houston, Texas, Alma Marze Erwin of Oakdale, Isabelle Marze Eaves of Merryville & Ceilestia Marze Terrell of Merryville; son-in-law, Ben Marshall of Velma, Okla.; grandchildren, Billy Jones, Evie Jane Miller, Carl Mikel Climber (Christina), Charla Marshall Stubbs, Benjamin Marshall (Ardis), Timothy Taylor (Lavonda), Randall Taylor (Allyson), Chad Taylor (Amy), David Taylor, Heather Taylor Lacy, Amanda Taylor White (Warren), Allison Taylor, Russell West (Averi), Mark West, Traci Watson Bailey (Wes), Skylar Watson, Alvin Douglas Boudreaux and Ernest Marshall; 36 great grandchildren, four great great grandchildren; a special niece, Tammy Mitchell Bailes and several other nieces and nephews.
Our Mom was an Angel with a sweet smile. We will never forget and unselfish love that will live on in all the hearts she touched.
She loved to treat her grandchildren to homemade waffles in the morning and a snack of her homemade fried fig pies. Go rest High on that mountain, your work here is done. We love you, Your Family.
Mourning is the experience of loss in love. Love is the fuel that inspires grief and the need to mourn. 

Samuel Territo
Samuel Adam "Sammy" Territo, 74, of DeRidder, passed away Friday, March 28, 2014 at DeRidder Retirement and Rehabilitation Center. Visitation will be Wednesday, April 2, from 8:30 a.m. until time of service at St. Joseph's Catholic Church. A funeral service will be held Wednesday, April 2, at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph's with FR Jude Brunnert, M.S., officiating. Visitation in Baton Rouge will take place Thursday, April 3, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Greenoaks Funeral Home, 9595 Florida Blvd., in Baton Rouge, and a graveside service will take place Thursday, April 3, at 2 p.m. at Roselawn Memorial Park, 4045 North St., in Baton Rouge.
Samuel is survived by three sons, Tony and Paulette Territo of Baton Rouge, Barry and Melinda Territo of Denham Springs and Lonny and Jouh Territo of Denham Springs; two sisters, Phyllis Territo of Baton Rouge, and Nita and A.J. Ramoin of Baton Rouge; and eight grandchildren, Tony Territo, Jr., Cade Territo, Robert and Ashley Territo, Kyle Territo, Emily Territo, Alexa Territo, Ashlyn Territo and Eli Territo. Preceded in death by his parents, Oscar F. & Elma Martinez Territo; sister, Mary Territo Sullivan; and brothers, Oscar Territo, Sr. and Joseph Territo. 

Oscar Thigpen
Funeral services for Oscar Earl Thigpen, 43, of Rosepine, Louisiana were held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 19, at the Labby Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in DeRidder with Rev. Arlen Smith officiating. Visitation was held Monday, Aug. 18, from 1 p.m. until 9 p.m., and on Tuesday, Aug. 19, from 9 a.m. until service time in the chapel.
Oscar, was the son of Jimmy and Mary Deason Thigpen, and was born Jan. 18, 1969 in Lake Charles. He passed away Friday, Aug. 15, at his residence in Rosepine.
Oscar was a longtime resident of the Rosepine area, her loved to fish and never met a stranger. He was formerly employed as a tankerman and loved to ride motorcycles and truly enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother Mary Louise Swain.
He is survived by his life partner of 13 years Felecia Miller of Rosepine, his daughter Haley Ledet of DeRidder, his father, Johnny Swain of Rosepine, five grandchildren and one great grandchildren. 

Jessica Torres
Funeral service for Jessica Lynn Torres , 26, of DeRidder, La., will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, March 21, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home Chapel, DeRidder, La., with Chaplin Jim Cheever officiating. Burial will follow in Whitaker Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 20, 2014, 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at the funeral home in DeRidder.
Jessica was born on May 9, 1987, to Ramone and Linda Louise Torres in Austin, Texas. She also resided in Yokum, Texas, York, S.C., and settling in DeRidder. She was a homemaker and a 2005 graduate of East Beauregard High School. Jessica passed away on Sunday, March 16, 2014 from injuries received in an automobile accident.
Jessica is survived by one son, Isaiah Torres; one daughter, Haley Faye Torres, both of DeRidder; two brothers, Michael Alvin Vincent and Mark Allen Vincent, both of Victoria, Texas; her mother, Linda Louise Laredo of Oak Grove, La.; her father, Ramon Torres of Yokum, Texas; her aunt, Naomi McGlothin and husband Raymond and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Ronald Trout - October 26, 1946-August 12, 2014
Funeral services for Mr. Ronald Trout will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 15, 2014 in Rush Chapel. Brother Barry Gautreaux will be officiating. Interment will follow in Oakhill Cemetery, Oakdale under the direction of Rush Funeral Home.
Ronnie, 67, a resident of Oakdale, entered eternal rest at 10:45 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2014 at The Grace Home in Alexandria.
Mr. Trout was born Oct. 26, 1946 in DeRidder, La. He graduated from DeRidder High School in 1964. After graduation Ronnie attended the University of Southern Louisiana in Lafayette from 1964 to 1967 studying architecture. Ronnie owned several small businesses in Marksville and served on the Marksville Town Council from 1972-1976. He was admired and respected in his community and the automobile industry, where he served twenty five years making many friends and had many great accomplishments before his retirement in 2009. He was a sportsman, a fisherman, and a storyteller.
Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, Roscoe Marshal Trout, Sr. and Ciara Dee LaCroix Trout.
He is survived by his loving wife, Edna Sue Johnson Trout of Oakdale; one son, Darren M. Trout of Fort Worth, Tx; two step daughters: Rhonda L. Colon and her husband Edward "Ed" of Longwood, Fl and Michelle R. Cobb and her husband Daniel P. Cobb of Richmond, Texas; seven grandchildren: Christopher, Laken, Ambria, Ashiley, Kaitlyn, Adilyn and Aleya; one brother, Roscoe Marshall "Ric" Trout, Jr and his wife Myra of Lafayette; one sister, Karleen Wooley and her husband Donald of DeRidder. Also survived by one nephew, Donald Wooley; three nieces, Autumn Wooley, Heather Trout and Tiffany Trout.
Friends may call at Rush Funeral Home, Oakdale Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014 from 3 p.m. until 10 p.m. and Friday, Aug. 15, 2014 from 8 a.m. until the time of service. 

Charles E. Tullah
Charles E. Tullah, 61, of Nederland, Texas passed away on Saturday, June 28, 2014 at his residence. He was born on December 19, 1952 in Beaumont, Texas to the late Charles E. Tullah, Sr. and Alberta O. Baye Tullah. He was a lifelong resident of the area, and worked in transportation as a travel companion.
Charlie is survived by his sister, Peggy Harper and husband, Raymond of Nederland; niece, Carrie McDonald of Lumberton; nephew, Lonnie Delahoussaye, Jr. and wife, Katrina of Liberty; great nieces, Madyson McDonald of Lumberton; Evelyn Delahoussaye of Liberty; great nephew, Kale Delahoussaye of Liberty; brother-in-laws children, Lesha Olsen and husband, Andy, as well as their daughters and one great-granddaughter of Irmo, S.C.; Edward Harper and wife, Tracy of Goose Creek, S.C.; and David Harper of Columbia, SC. He is also survived by several aunts and one uncle. Charlie is preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral services will be held at Melancon's Funeral Home, 1605 Avenue H in Nederland on Thursday, July 3, 2014 at 10 a.m. with Father Kevin Badeaux officiating. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Port Arthur. A gathering of the family and friends will be held from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. prior to service time at the funeral home. 

Henry Tyler Sr.
On Wednesday, July 30, 2014, as he beheld the light that beckoned him from that yonder distant shore, Supt. Henry Tyler Sr. answered the call. Henry Tyler Sr. was born to the late Louis Tyler Jr. and Virginia (Brandon) Tyler on March 27, 1928 in Washington, La. He was joined in holy matrimony to Glory Harmon on June 16, 1948. To this union 13 children were born. Many were blessed by his dynamic preaching and compassionate caring ministry. He pastored churches in Colfax, Vinton and DeRidder.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Debbie Diane Tyler.
He leaves his wife of 66 years, Glory (Harmon) Tyler, his mother, Golden Roy of Beaumont, Texas, and his children to cherish his memories. Seven sons: Chester (Norma) of San Diego, Calif., Henry Jr. of Oberlin, La., Jimmie of San Antonio, Texas, Gregory (Minnie) of Newton, Texas, Leo (Lupe) of Houston, Texas, John (Dolly) of Oberlin, La., Ken of Sulphur, La., and spiritual son, Ronald (Marier) Piper of Lake Charles, La. Five daughters: Mable Jean Gradney of Oberlin, La., Naomi (Robert) Larry of Oakdale, La., Loretta (Richard) Celestine of Sulphur, La., Virginia (Ambrose) Cannon of Shreveport, La., and Gloria (John) Peters of Lake Charles, La.
He leaves a legacy of 27 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.
Memorial services will be held on Friday, Aug. 8, 2014, at 7 p.m. at Gray's Temple Church of God in Christ, 170 Pine St., Oberlin.
Visitation services will be held Saturday, Aug. 9, 2014, 9 a.m. to noon, with funeral services beginning at noon at Norris Memorial Church of God in Christ, 501 East North St., DeRidder. 

Nancy Lynn Vaughn
Nancy Lynn Vaughn, 59, of DeRidder, pased away Wednesday, Feb. 26, in DeRidder. Visitation will be held Sunday, March 2, from 3-8 p.m., and Monday, March 3, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Chaddick Funeral Home in DeRidder. A funeral service will be held Monday, March 3, at 2 p.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church. Interment will be at Beauregard Cemetery.
She is survived by her husband, Ray Lynn Vaughn, Sr., of DeRidder; six children, Justin Derek Mitchell of Lake Charles, Brett Lyndon Vaughn of Baton Rouge, Ray Lynn Vaughn Jr. and Brenda of DeRidder, Leah Vaughn Blumling and Frank of Litchfield, S.C., Lori Vaughn Ebersohl and Kevin of Vienna, Va., and Lene' Vaughn Stephenson and Jim of Fort Knox, Ken.; 12 grandchildren, Jessica Vaughn, Melissa Vaughn, Colby Vaughn, Patrick Blumling, Alexa Blumling, Courtney Ebersohl, Sydney Ebersohl, Carli Giles, Kegly Giles, Brenna Stephenson, Taylor Stephenson and Emily Stephenson; a sister, Kathy Telano and Joey of West Monroe; her mother, Mary Edmonson of West Monroe; and her father, James Robert Edmonson of Denham Springs. 

Joseph Wall, Sr. 
Joseph "Joey" F. Wall, Sr. of Rosepine, La., passed from this life at the age of 68.
A Direct Cremation was entrusted to Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La. Survivors include one son, Joseph Wall, Jr. and wife Jessica; three brothers, Calvin Wall and wife Barbara, Floyd Wall and George Wall; four grandchildren, Trent Wall, Stacie Wall Stokes, Tristen Wall, Amanda Rose McCullough-Hayes; two great grandchildren, Skylar Cutts and Madison Hayes and special friends, Dale Neidlinger, Paula Pickering and Frank Steel with a host of other friends. He is preceded in death by one daughter, Pam McCullough. 

Erlene Ward
Funeral services for Erlene Lewis Ward, 97, of DeRidder, LA will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 31, 2014, at the First United Pentecostal Church in DeRidder, La. Ministers will be Rev. Chance Lewis, Rev. Zale Lewis and Rev. Kevin Reeves. Burial will follow at Lewis Cemetery under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La. Mrs. Ward passed from this life on Wednesday, May 28, 2014, in DeRidder, La. Visitation will held on Friday, May 30, 2014, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m., and Saturday May 31, 2014, from 9 a.m. until service time, all at the church.
She is survived by one son, Merle Ward and wife Judy of DeRidder, LA; one daughter, Myrtle Pittman of Nacogdoches, Texas; three grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
Mrs. Ward was native and lifelong resident of DeRidder, La. She worked as a sales clerk and alterations seamstress for Hooks Department Store for over 35 years. She loved to fish, work in her flower garden and go to church. In her "80's" she loved visiting "the old people". She also loved her family, traveling and quilting. 

Gail Weldon
Funeral service for Gail Weldon, 65, of Sugartown, La., will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 22, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La. Burial will follow in Sugartown Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La.
Visitation will be held on Friday, March 21, 2014, 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at the funeral home in DeRidder.
Gail is survived four sons, Johnny Scott Weldon of Vidor, Texas, Jerry Weldon of Grant, LA, Mark Weldon of Sugartown, LA and David Weldon of Sugartown, La.; 10 grandchildren and two great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Johnny J. Weldon.
Gail was born on Saturday, September 11, 1948, to Hazel Shirley Goodwin and Harold Goodwin in Columbus, Ga. She was a caregiver of others for most of her life and worked at nursing homes and sitting with the elderly. She passed from this life on Tuesday, March 18, 2014, at Oakdale, La. 

Terry Lewis Wells
Funeral service for Terry Lewis Wells, 62, of DeRidder, LA will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in DeRidder. Burial will follow in Dry Creek Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2014, 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. at the funeral home in DeRidder.
Terry was born on Oct. 24, 1951, to Earnest and Ruby Peterson Lewis in Alexandria, La. She passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2014, in DeRidder, La.
Terry thoroughly enjoyed doing crosswords and reading her bible. Terry was always the happiest while caring for others.
She was preceded in death by her husband, George Wells and her father, Earnest Lewis.
Mrs. Wells is survived by her sons, Garret Reeves of DeRidder, La., and Chad Reeves of DeRidder, La; daughter, Laura Reeves Cates and husband, William of Rosepine, La; mother, Ruby Lewis of Sulphur, LA; brother, Earnest Lewis II, of Sulphur, LA; sisters, Jackie Welsh and husband, Keith of Riverbridge, La., Sheree Lewis of Sulphur, La., and Barbara Darwish and husband, Moody of Sulphur, La., and two grandchildren, Megan Cates and Nick Cates. 

Benny West
Funeral service for Benny West, 74, of DeRidder, La., will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 10, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in DeRidder with Dr. Aurther Rockett officiating. Burial will follow in Beauregard Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, Feb. 9, 2014, 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at the funeral home in DeRidder.
Benny was born on Aug. 31, 1939, to Roxy Clifford and Glady Mae Ware West in Vernon Parish, La. He passed away on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2014, in DeRidder, La. He was a lifelong resident of Beauregard Parish.
He is survived by his son, Randy K. West of DeRidder; daughter, Donna D. Lewis of Jackson, Miss.; brothers, Roxy West of DeRidder and Kem West of DeRidder; sister, Sue Stedman of Leesville; six grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. 

Berry West
Berry Webster West, 88, of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Tuesday, March 18, 2014 in Platte City, Mo. Mr. West was in the Navy for 2 1/2 years and is a WWII Veteran. He graduated from Southern College of Fine Arts in Houston, Texas, where he majored in Music. He taught band at Austin State School for 3 years before returning to live in DeRidder. He worked at Fort Polk for 2 years as a Carpenter's Apprentice before beginning work at the Deridder Post Office. He was a Letter Carrier for 30 years, walking nine to 19 miles a day, delivering mail in the city. His hobbies were reading, gardening (40 lb cabbage), pecan trees, fruit trees, and raising chickens, emu, geese, ducks, turkeys, goats and a calf or two. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Eddie Ruth West; daughters, Ann Rozell and husband Grant of Chandler, Texas, and Evangeline Hicks and husband Kirk of Platte City, MO; granddaughters, Heather Icenogle, Angie Roberts, Amy Maggard, and Laurie Rozell; great granddaughter, Destinee Roberts. He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Maggie West; sisters, Vergie West Lewis and Vertie West; brothers, Obadiah, James F. and Frank West.
Visitation and funeral services will be held Saturday, March 22, 2014 at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Visitation will be from 2 p.m. until 3 p.m. with funeral service beginning at 3 p.m. Burial will follow in Cooper Cemetery in DeRidder. Bro. Hurshel Davis will officiate. 

Robert Carl Westfall
Robert Carl Westfall, 74, passed away in his residence on Friday, Jan. 3, 2014 surrounded by his family.
Born in Many, Robert was the son of the late Robert and Eva (Wells) Westfall. He spent 12 years in Mount Carmel before moving to Peason for six years. Robert then moved to Rosepine where he lived for over 30 years before settling in DeRidder for the remainder of his life. He married Dorothy Gimnich on Aug. 21, 1964. Robert was a member of First Pentecostal Church and enjoyed several hobbies, particularly hunting for old things and making arrow heads.
He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Westfall of DeRidder; children, Anthony Westfall and wife, Junie of Riegelwood, N.C., Jonathan Westfall and wife, Becky of Lexington, S.C., Robert "Bobby" Westfall of Chula Vista, Calif., and Dana Westfall of DeRidder; sister, Rachel Berel of Rosepine, La. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren and his three adorable dogs.
Visitation will be on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. in First Pentecostal Church of DeRidder and will continue Monday from 8 a.m. until service time. Funeral service will be on Monday, Jan. 6, 2014 at 11 a.m. in the church; the Rev. Zale Lewis will officiate. Burial will follow in Hopewell Cemetery under the direction of Johnson & Brown Funeral Home. 

Larry Daune Wiegand
Larry Daune Wiegand, 64, of DeRidder, La., passed from this life on Monday, Dec. 30, 2013. Those left to cherish his memory are his son, Eric Wiegand of Beaumont, Texas; daughter, Ashley Brooke Wiegand of Houston, Texas; brothers, Mark Wiegand of DeRidder, La., Paul Wiegand of Lumberton, Texas, and Roger Wiegand and wife Miranda of Lumberton, Texas; grandson, Evan Greenhall of Galveston, Texas.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, Jan. 2, 2014 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. A graveside service will be held Friday, Jan. 3, 2014, at 12 p.m. in Evergreen Cemetery in Jasper, Texas. Bro. Terry Walker will officiate. Services are under the direction of Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. 

Mable Williams
Sister Mable Jean Malone Williams, 87, of DeRidder, La., answered God's call on Tuesday, March 11, 2014. She was born to the late Deacon John Henry and Deaconess Eva Jane Malone on March 27, 1926 in Gateen, La., (Imperial Calcasieu Parish). She completed her formal education in the Beauregard Parish School System and later attended Southern A&M University in Baton Rouge, La.. She was a Civil Service employee at Fort Polk for 20 years. She started in the Laundry and then became a Nursing Assistant at Bayne Jones Army Community Hospital. She retired in 1983 and began traveling to visit her children, grandchildren, and attending the Community Prayer Band. She obeyed the gospel of Jesus Christ and was baptized at an early age at Starlight Baptist Church by the late Rev. Rocquemore. She was an active and devoted member, where she was a dedicated Deaconess, Assistant Sunday School Teacher, a Mission Sister as well as a former choir member. She was a faithful and dedicated President of the Community Prayer Band. She was preceded in death by her parents, and 3 sisters, (Johnnie Mae, Gladys and Glorious Jewel) and her husbands, Walter Louis Staten, Sr. and John H. Williams, Jr. Cherishing her memories are her children, Loukirkus (Robert) Gibson of Hopkins, S.C., Suborrah (Royce) Anderson of DeRidder, La., and Fraby (Charles) Fishe' of Augusta, Ga., Sundra Turner of Las Vegas, Nev., Walter (Katherine) Staten, Jr. of DeRidder, La., Reich (Glenda) Staten of Statesville, N.C., Marier (Ronald) Piper of Lake Charles, La., Shelton (Barbara) Malone of Las Vegas, NV, Monte' (Reginald) Woods of DeRidder, La., and Joseph Ashley of Oakland, CA; brother, Rogers L. Malone; 28 grandchildren, 37 great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Special cousins, Ewell Archield, Leola Carhee, and Margaret Washington. Close family friends, Rev. Alvin (Margaret) Peters, Sr., Louella and Johnnie Robinson, LouTee Smith, Zurlene Johnson, Eloise Johnson, Turiecka McClendon, and other relatives and friends.
Visitation and funeral services will be held Saturday, March 15, 2014 at Starlight Missionary Baptist Church in DeRidder, La. Visitation is from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. with funeral services beginning at 1 p.m. Burial will follow at Beauregard Cemetery in DeRidder, La. Rev. Daniel Stafford will officiate. 

Pat Wilson
Graveside service for Pat Wilson, 65, of DeRidder, La., was held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 25, 2014, at Whitaker Cemetery with Rev. James Abenroth officiating. Burial followed in Whitaker Cemetery, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, LA.
Pat was born on Wednesday, December 15, 1948, in DeRidder, La., to Harold and Velma Cooley Wilson. She lived in California and later moved back to DeRidder in 1980. Pat was a retired cashier working at several businesses. She loved her dogs and children and was an avid reader.
She is survived by two sons, Shawn Melvin and Ryan Wilson, both of DeRidder, La.; one daughter, Susie Donah and husband Craig of Wilmington, MA; one brother, Al Wilson and wife Mary of DeRidder, La., and her special close friend, Elizabeth Smithart.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to an account at City Savings Bank, DeRidder, La. 

Billy Wingate
A memorial service is to be held at the Cooper Cemetery Chapel, U.S. 190 West, at 1 p.m., for Billy Arville Wingate, who passed away in Houston, Texas, on Feb. 24, 2014. Billy was born in Pitkin on Sept. 24, 1932. He served in the US Air Force as a Senior Medical Admitting Specialist from 1951 until his honorable discharge in 1953. He then moved to Houston where he eventually became co-owner of CSC Rebar, a steel and fabricating company, which he operated for 60 years until his passing. Billy was a long-time member of the Sagemont Church in Houston. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Linda Wingate, a son Joshua, and two daughters, Lisa and Dawn Wingate. He is also survived by three brothers, Horace Wingate and Obie Wingate, of DeRidder, and Glen Wingate of Houston. One sister, Fara Wingate-Newman, of Tiger, Ga., as well as a host of nieces and nephews. 

Michael Joseph Wirsing
Michael Joseph Wirsing, 56, of DeRidder, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2014, at Lake Charles Memorial. A funeral service by the Rev. Frank Hensley will be held Monday, Jan. 6, at 2 p.m. at Chaddick Funeral Home. Visitation will be held Sunday, Jan. 5, from 3-8 p.m. and Monday, Jan. 6, from 9 a.m. until time of service at Chaddick Funeral Home. Interment will be at Beauregard Cemetery.
Michael Wirsing is survived by his wife, Barbara Wirsing of DeRidder; two sons, Daniel E. Wirsing and Jennifer of DeRidder and Matthew A. Wirsing of DeRidder; two grandsons, Cameron Dale Wirsing and Jace Michael Wirsing; four sisters, Sherry Henry of DeRidder, Katie Armstrong and Sammy of DeRidder, Maryann Grimm and fiance Roy Williams of DeRidder, and Brenda Lampkin and Andrew of Buckhannon, W.Va.; two brothers, Jackie Riffle of DeRidder and Dennis Riffle of DeRidder; his mother, Joy Frusha of DeRidder; and a host of neices, nephews, family and friends. 

Dorothy Kathleen Wood-Graham
Dorothy Kathleen Wood-Graham, 87, of Port Arthur, Texas, passed away on Monday, Dec. 30, 2013 at Cypress Glen East Nursing and Rehabilitation, Port Arthur, Texas.
She was born in Peason, La., on Aug. 10, 1926 to William George Coorpender and Edna Mae Hester-Coorpender. Kathleen was a very loving mother and grandmother and had an extreme love of animals.
Her passion for animals and caring for them was the joy of her life. She was the type of person that would never turn away a stray.
Kathleen is preceded in death by her father, mother, first husband Melvin Wood, and brother Sonny Hester.
She is survived by her brother William G. Coorpender, son David Wood of Houston, Texas, daughter Janice Morrell and husband Gerald of Port Neches, Texas, grandchildren Randy Hutchinson and wife Debbie of Kirbyville, Texas, Regina Glen and husband Brian of Amarillo, Texas, Christy Hickman and husband Trollis of DeRidder, La., Jana Joiner and husband Dennis of Leesville, La., ten great-grandchildren and seven great-great grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at Mersey Bible Church, 4310 La. 1146 (Ikes Road), Rosepine, La., on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2014, 2 p.m., with Brother James Byrd officiating.
Interment will follow at Smyrna Baptist Church Cemetery, DeRidder, La. 

Barbara Dill Woolman
Funeral service for Barbara Dill Woolman, 80, of Ragley, La., will be held at
2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 25, 2014, at Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder with Rev. Johnny Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in Hopewell Cemetery, Dry Creek, La., under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder, La. Barbara passed from this life on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2014, in her home in Ragley, La., with her family by her side.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, Aug. 24, 2014, 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. at the funeral home in DeRidder.
Barbara was born on Sunday, Nov. 26, 1933, to John Madison Dill and Eula Simmons Dill in Mansfield, La. The family moved to Lake Charles, LA shortly thereafter. She attended La Grange High School where she was a member of the Gatorette's and Band. After graduation she attended McNeese State College until her marriage to George Clark Woolman on May 24, 1953. She worked for Morris Animal Clinic and later as bookkeeper for Office Machine and Supply. Later she started her own business which she named "Barbara's Antiques and Fine Jewelry" located at 2140 Kirkman St. which she operated for over 20 years. She and her husband George moved to Ragley, LA in 1984. While living in Lake Charles they were members of Sale Street Baptist Church and after moving to Ragley they joined First Baptist Church of Longville and later Magnolia Baptist Church where they are presently members.
She is survived by her husband of 61 years, George Woolman; one daughter, Letitia Gwendolyn Canty of Newton, Texas; two grandsons, Steven Dale Veron and wife Misty of Lumberton, Texas, and George Warren Riggs and wife Crystal of Ragley, La.; two great-grandsons and two great-granddaughters.
Barbara was a member of Calcasieu Chapter 164 Order of the Eastern Star for 62 years. She was also a member of the DAR and she served LA Grand Chapter OES as Grand Esther in 2005-2006 along with her husband George who was Worthy Grand Patron those years. 

Norma Jean Young
Norma Jean Young, 83, of Merryville, La., passed from this life Dec. 30, 2013.
Those left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Doris Fontenot and husband Donald of DeRidder, La., and Sharon Higginbotham of Merryville, La.; sister, Linda Smith and husband Buddy of Merryville, La.; grandchildren, Donette Campbell, Landon Fontenot, Hoy Cooke, Jeanette McFatter, Jamie Higginbotham and Hayley Higginbotham; great grandchildren, Brooke Campbell, Landon Fontenot, Jr., Madelyn Cooke, Austin Cruse, Jessie, Lanie and Tyler Higginbotham, Daniel McFatter and Jonathan McFatter; step great-great grandchild, Logan McFatter and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jessie Arthur Young; parents, Mertie and Bernard Hare; one brother, one sister, and a son-in-law.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2014 from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, La. Funeral services will be Thursday, Jan. 2, 2014 at 10 a.m. Burial will follow at Cannon Cemetery in Merryville, LA. The Rev. Jim Miers will officiate.