Obituaries East Baton Rouge and Surrounding Parishes November 25, 2001 - December 31, 2001 Taken from "The Advocate" This information generously donated to the Louisiana Genealogy Project - African American Archives by: S.K. Martin-Quiatte ********************************************** Copyright. All rights reserved. http://usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://usgwarchives.net/la/lafiles.htm ********************************************** EDWARDS, VERA MATTHEWS A resident and native of Greensburg, she departed this life on Sunday, Nov. 25, 2001, at St. Helena Parish Nursing Home, Greensburg. She was 77. Visiting at Turner Chapel AME Church, off La. 1042, Greensburg, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday. Religious services at the church at noon Saturday, conducted by the Rev. Stanley J. Carter. Interment in church cemetery. Survived by four daughters, Irma Nelson, Los Angeles, Sharon Lee, Dennis Mills, and Cynthia Lee and Malonda Edwards, both of Greensburg; three sons, Larry Matthews, Long Beach, Gregory Edwards, Greensburg, and Fritz Edwards, Dennis Mills; two sisters, Ida McCray, Greensburg, and Mae Dee Porter, New Orleans; two brothers, Wallace and Charlie Matthews, both of Greensburg; 13 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and numerous other relatives and friends. MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home Inc., Denham Springs, in charge of arrangements MCQUIRTER, JR. JOSEPH J. "JIM" A native of Woodville, Miss., and a resident of Baton Rouge, he departed this life at 12:44 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center-Mid City. He was employed with the Baton Rouge General Medical Center-MidCity for more than 50 years. He leaves to cherish his memory four daughters, Twonia McQuirter, and Loretta Thomas and husband Winston, all of Baton Rouge, Alona Johnson and husband J. of Columbus, Ohio, and Claretta Weatherspoon and husband Albert of Mobile, Ala.; two sons, Bernard McQuirter and wife Amanda of Panama City, Fla., and Clarence Winbush of Baton Rouge; four sisters, Bertha Browder of Baton Rouge, Elizabeth McQuirter of St. Francisville, Emma Davis of Woodville, Miss., and Hannah McQuirter of New Orleans; seven brothers, Isaiah and wife Violet, James and wife Doris, Joshua and wife Dorothy, Charlie and wife Rose, and Edward, all of Baton Rouge, Sam McQuirter and wife Bessie, and Henry Davis and wife Juanita, all of Woodville; 12 grandchildren, WaRita nd Shawn Winbush, John, Cedric, Ivy, April, Daniel and Laura Thomas, Brandon and Virginia McQuirter, Monica King and Jawanda Perryman; 10 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his former wife, Virginia McQuirter; mothers, Nettie McKenzie and Betsy McQuirter; father, Joseph J. McQuirter Sr.; five brothers, Jessie and Percy McQuirter, Henry Dixon, Earnest and Arthur Randolph; three sisters, Lucille McQuirter, Fannie Stewart and Lizzie White; four aunts, five uncles, two brothers-in-law, a grandson and several nephews. The religious service will be Monday, Dec. 3, 2001, at Greater Mount Gideon Baptist Church, 205 Alice St., Baton Rouge, at 7 p.m. Viewing of Joseph J. "Jim" McQuirter Jr. will be from 5 p.m. ntil religious services. Winnfield Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. Interment Dec. 4, 2001, in Winnfield Memorial Park, with the Rev. Edward Howard officiating minister. KNIGHTEN, CLARENCE A resident of Greensburg, he departed this life Thursday, Nov. 29, 2001, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. He was 91. Visiting at Turner Chapel AME Church, off La. 1042, Greensburg, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday. Religious services at the church at 1 p.m. Tuesday, conducted by the Rev. Stanley J. Carter. Interment in church cemetery. He is survived by his wife, Imogene Knighten; four children, Gloria, Jessie, Dianne and Marese Butler; and numerous other relatives and friends. MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home Inc., Denham Springs, in charge of arrangements. MOORE, MARY "BIG MOMA" A resident of Baton Rouge, she died at 4:45 a.m. Monday, Dec. 3, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center. She was 86 and a native of Torres. Visiting at New Hope Baptist Church from 9 a.m. Thursday until religious services at noon, conducted by the Rev. Errol K. Domingue. Interment in Gilbert Memorial Park. Survived by three daughters, Leola Small of Kenner and Rosie Lee Blakes and Beatrice Moore, both of Baton Rouge; five sons, Isiah and wife Mary Jones of Port Arthur, Texas, Eugene Moore of Houston, Harry and wife Rosetta Smith, Allen and wife Jacqueline Moore, and Larry Moore, all of Baton Rouge; 19 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren; a host of children that loved and called her Big Mama; other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by her mother, Beatrice Roberson Moore; father, Riley Moore; a daughter; and a granddaughter, Aldena U. Fox. She was a member of Elm Grove Baptist Church. HILLS, ELNORA A retired custodial worker with the East Baton Rouge Parish School Board, she died Friday, Dec. 7, 2001, at Louisiana Guest House. She was 77 and a resident of Baton Rouge. Visiting at Beech Grove Baptist Church from 5 p.m. Wednesday until religious services at 7 p.m., conducted by the Rev. Gregory V. White. Dismissal at 10 a.m. Thursday. Interment in Southern Memorial Gardens. She is survived by two daughters, Mary Lee White and Gracie Banks, both of Baton Rouge; three sons, Frank Banks Jr., Capitol Heights, Md., and David Hills and Larry Banks, both of Baton Rouge; seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by mother, Mary Morgan; a sister, Julia Bynum; a son, Luke Banks; and father, Nero Hills. Winnfield Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. HINTON, TINA MARIE A retired assistant manager of a Texaco service station, she died at 5:45 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2001. She was 34 and a native and resident of Baton Rouge. Visiting at New Southside Funeral Home from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday. Religious services at Greene Chapel AME Church at 7 p.m. Tuesday, conducted by the Rev. C.P. Coleman. Dismissal at 10 a.m. Wednesday. Interment in New Hope Cemetery. Survived by father, Franklin W. Hinton Sr.; stepmother, Debra Hinton; mother, Ethel Hill Hinton; a daughter, Takeisha D. Hinton; a son, Tyree D. Hinton; three sisters, Charlene D. Alex, Darlene V. Alex and Monique L. Hinton; and a brother, Franklin W. Hinton Jr. Preceded in death by maternal grandparents, Harry J. Hill Jr. and Rosalie J. Hill; and paternal grandfather, Willard Hinton. She was an honor graduate of Capitol High School and attended Southern University. JOHNSON, SHELBY RAY A retired janitor and a resident of Baton Rouge, he died Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2001, at Chabert Medical Center in Houma. He was 63 and a native of Rayville. Visiting at Desselle's Funeral Home, 263 Eddie Robinson Sr. Drive, from 9 a.m. until religious services at 1 p.m. Wednesday. Interment in Lutheran Cemetery. Survived by mother, Cloteal Anthony; a sister, Sandra Pinkney; and a brother, Michael N. Anthony. Preceded in death by stepfather, Louis Anthony Sr.; a sister, Diane Anthony; and a brother, Louis Anthony Jr. Pallbearers will be Frederick Queen, Shawn Augustus, Chaka Collins, Louis Brown, Glen Wilson and Carl Moss. Honorary pallbearers are Michael Anthony, Frank Anthony, Joe Anthony and Frederick Queen. CLAY, JR. JOHN HENRY A retired employee of the Baton Rouge Housing Authority and a resident of Baton Rouge, he died at 9:55 a.m. Monday, Dec. 10, 2001, at Baton Rouge Health Care. He was 91 and a native of Baton Rouge. He was a U.S. Army veteran. Visiting at Elm Park Baptist Church from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday. Religious services at the church at 10 a.m. Friday, conducted by the Rev. Barry Guy. Interment in Port Hudson National Cemetery. Survived by two daughters, Viola C. Winfield and Shirley C. Stampley and husband Joseph, all of Baton Rouge; three sons, Lawrence Clay and wife Alice and Charles Clay and wife Anniebell, all of Baton Rouge, and Rudolph Clay and wife Judith, Los Angeles; a sister, Cornelia Washington, Baton Rouge; two brothers, Issac Clay and wife Aldean and Enos Clay and wife Willie Mae, all of Baton Rouge; 12 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by wife of 41 years, Della Thomas Clay; parents, the Rev. John Henry Clay Sr. and Rhoda Donaldson Clay; six brothers and two sisters. He was chairman of the Deacon Board at Elm Park Baptist Church. Rhodes United Fidelity Funeral Service in charge of arrangements. BARROW, WINNIE A longtime resident of Baton Rouge, she died at 11:42 a.m. Monday, Dec. 10, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center. She was 93 and a native of St. Francisville. Wake services at St. Mary Baptist Church from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday. Religious services at the church at 11 a.m. Saturday, conducted by the Rev. Conway Knighton. Interment in Southern Memorial Gardens. Capital Funeral Home in charge of arrangements CLABORN, SR. LEROY A retiree of LSU and Allied Chemical Corp., he died Sunday, Dec. 9, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center. He was 79 and a U.S. Army veteran. Visiting at Winnfield Funeral Home from 10 a.m. Friday until services at noon. Interment in Port Hudson National Cemetery. Preceded in death by his father and mother, Jerry Claborn and Louisian Wilson Claborn; two brothers, Freddie Claborn Sr. and A.D. Alton Claborn; a sister, Jellena Claborn; a stepson, Victor Hill; and a nephew, Leonard Toney Sr. Survived by a devoted and caring wife of 27 years, Vivian Claborn; a wonderful son, Leroy Claborn Jr.; three sisters, Myrtis Magdalene Hills, Baton Rouge, Dimple Mae Bryer, Greensburg, and Christine Claborn, River Ridge; three stepdaughters and spouses, April and Michael Austin, Lusby, Md., Allyson and Curtis Chappell, Fort Washington, Md., and Tracy and Terry Bowie, New Carrollton, Md.; a stepson, Elliott Hill, Baton Rouge; six wonderful grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was a friend to all and will be missed by many. GEORGE, LEE AUDREY "ARKIE" A retired psychiatric aide with East Louisiana State Hospital, Jackson, with 18 years of service, she died at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 10, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center. She was 70, a resident of McManus and a native of Gurley. Visiting at Richardson Funeral Home, Clinton, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday. Religious services at Freeman Baptist Church, Ethel, at 3 p.m. Friday, conducted by the Rev. Mac Henry Wallace. Interment in Mount Hope Baptist Church Cemetery, Clinton. Survived by a daughter, Sharon Collins and husband Jack, Clinton; a sister, Mary F. Hendrix, San Antonio; a sister-in-law, Mary Lou Jarrell, Norwood; four brothers, Steve Jarrell, Kenner, Charlie Jarrell, Baton Rouge, Clovis Jarrell and wife Ruby, Ethel, and Jessie Jarrell and wife Mary, Fayetteville, N.C.; seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by her mother, father, grandparents, a daughter, a son, three brothers, a sister and a granddaughter. PEAK, BEATRICE KNIGHTEN "TEDDY" A resident of Baton Rouge, she died Thursday, Dec. 6, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center-Mid City. She was 76 and a native of Clinton. Visiting at Desselle's Funeral Home, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday. Visiting at New Hope Baptist Church, 5856 Greenwell Springs Road, from 9 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Friday, conducted by the Rev. Robert E. Smith. Interment in St. John's Cemetery, Clinton. Survived by her husband, Lawrence Peak; three daughters and two sons-in-law, Deloris and Isaac McCullough, Dyan and Reginald Davis, and Audrey Brown; two sons and daughters-in-law, Elden Robert and Ruth Knighten and Wayne and Hilda Knighten; a sister, Albertha Young; and a brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Myrtis Knighten, all of Baton Rouge; 14 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by her mother, father, a grandson, two sisters and five brothers. SIMS, ELIZABETH KING "NANNY" A resident of Zachary, she died at 6:35 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, 2001, in Zachary. She was 91 and a native of New Roads. Visiting at Richardson Funeral Home, La. 10, Clinton, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday. Religious services at Puritan Baptist Church, 1047 Rosenwald Road, Baton Rouge, at 7 p.m. Friday, conducted by the Rev. Roosevelt Florida. Dismissal at 10 a.m. Saturday. Interment in Southern Memorial Gardens. Survived by four daughters, Audrey L. McGuffie and husband Edward, Bernice M. Splann and husband Gilbert, Evelyn Sims and Lula M. Dunn and husband James; two sons, Gilbert Sims Jr. and wife Brunetta, and Percy Sims and wife Catherine; 33 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren and 37 great-great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by her husband, Gilbert Sims Sr.; parents, Jim and Eva King; a sister, Eliza King White; three brothers, John, Howard and Napoleon King; and a granddaughter, Gilderette L. Sims. BARROW, WINNIE A native of St. Francisville and a longtime resident of Baton Rouge, she died at 11:42 a.m. Monday, Dec. 10, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center. She was 93. Wake services at St. Mary Baptist Church from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday. Religious services at the church at 11 a.m. Saturday, conducted by the Rev. Conway Knighton. Interment in Southern Memorial Gardens. Survived by three daughters, Lillie Mae Shavers, Oakland, Calif., Audrey Brown, Baton Rouge, and Hilda Walker, El Cerrito, Calif.; two sons-in-law, the Rev. Clyton Brown Jr., Baton Rouge, and Robert Walker, El Cerrito; five sons, Melton Sterling, Pittsburg, Calif., Elliott and Elvin Sterling and Lezard and Stanford Barrow, all of Baton Rouge; three daughters-in-law, Lucille Sterling, Pittsburg, Calif., Norma Sterling and Barbara Barrow, both of Baton Rouge; 40 grandchildren, 69 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by her parents, John and Charlotte Barrow; a daughter, Edna Barrow; a grandson, Gerard Brown; seven sisters and two brothers. She was a member of St. Mary Baptist Church for 72 years. The family thanks the nurses and staff at Baton Rouge General Medical Center and Kean H. Day, M.D. Capital Funeral Home in charge of rrangements. BROWN, LEOLA P. "LEE" A retired entrepreneur of several restaurants and a retired private nurse, she died at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center. She was a native of Clinton and a resident of Baton Rouge. Visiting at St. Mark United Methodist Church, 6217 Glen Oaks Drive, from 5 p.m. Sunday until religious services at 7 p.m., conducted by the Rev. Joseph Awotwi. Interment in St. Paul United Methodist Church Cemetery, Clinton. Survived by three daughters, Elouise Henry, Lottie B. Robinson and Edna Brown Hickman, all of Baton Rouge; four sons and daughters-in-law, James and Rosie Brown, Felton and Winnie J. Brown and Bernard and Georgiana Brown, all of Baton Rouge, and Ernest Brown, Los Angeles; 15 grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by her husband, Ed Brown; mother, Josephine Parker; grandmother, Sally Stimley; a granddaughter, whom she reared, Edna Mack; and a grandson, Christopher Ivan Henry. She was a member of St. Mark United Methodist Women, L.B. Lewis study group and Order of the Eastern Star Mars Chapter No. 48. Miller & Daughter Mortuary, Zachary, in charge of arrangements. COATES, JR. LEANDER E. Presiding elder of a Seattle District, he was called to accountability on Thursday, Dec. 6, 2001, in Seattle. He was born to the marriage of Leander E. Sr. and Myrtle A. Poydras Coates. He attended St. Francis Xavier Catholic School and McKinley Senior High School. During his 21-year tour in the Air Force, he gained his college degree and became a Methodist minister. He leaves as part of his history a wife, the Rev. Gwendolyn Coates; four children, Leander E. Coates III, Daryl Coates and Leann Coates, Ogden, Utah, U.S. Army E-5 P. Charles Coates and wife Laura, Germany; six stepchildren, Troy, Verlecia, Conita, Tony, Lanecia and Phillip; two brothers, Eugene and wife Bobbie Coates, Baton Rouge, and the Rev. Roderick J.D. Coates, S.S.J., McNair, Texas; five sisters, Chandler Whitley, Aline Vaughn and Leslie Coates, all of Baton Rouge, Sedley and Jesse Roach, Aiken, S.C., and Suzan Lancaster, Huntsville, Ala.; a half-brother and half-sister, the Rev. Gregory Coates and Tangy Coates, both of Baton Rouge; seven grandchildren; an aunt, Rosemary DeConge; two great-aunts; many nieces, nephews and cousins; and two extraodinary friends, the Rev. Daryl Walker, Washington, D.C., and Harold Drew Battieste, Baton Rouge. Visiting at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 1143 S. 11th St., from 9 a.m. Saturday until funeral services at 10 a.m. Interment in Gilbert Memorial Park. Desselle Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. COLAR, MUMFORD "COLE" A retired farmer and resident of New Roads, he died at 10:45 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2001, at Pointe Coupee Nursing Home. He was 96 and a native of Mix. Visiting at Pointe Coupee Funeral Home, New Roads, from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Friday. Visiting at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Lakeland, from 11 a.m. until funeral services at noon Friday, conducted by the Rev. Gregory J. Daigle. Interment in Chenal Cemetery. Survived by a son, Thomas Sydney Colar; two sisters, Vera C. Keene, Vallejo, Calif., and Theresa A. Colar, New Orleans; three brothers, James B. Colar and Marcell F. Colar, both of New Orleans, and John R. Colar, Los Angeles; four grandchildren, Joseph K. Colar, Baton Rouge, Gerald D. Colar and Angela R. Colar, both of Mableton, Ga., and Sydney N. Colar of California; two daughter-in-laws, Rachel A Colar and Priscilla M. Colar; three great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives. Preceded in death by his wife, Lorena B. Colar; two sons, Joseph S. Colar and Peter H. Colar; parents, Anatole and Edwidge B. Colar; and five brothers. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. DENNIS, ALONIA M. "NEA" A homemaker and a native and resident of St. James, she died at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2001, at St. Elizabeth Hospital, Gonzales. She was 83. Visiting at Demby & Son Funeral Home, Donaldsonville, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Friday. Visiting at Buena Vista Baptist Church, St. James, from 10 a.m. until religious services at noon Saturday, conducted by the Rev. Joseph Coleman. Interment in church cemetery. Survived by her husband, the Rev. Elvin Dennis Sr.; three daughters and sons-in-law, Dorothy and Joseph Anderson, Fort Walton Beach, Fla., Eloise and Lester Reynard, Gonzales, and Ester and Arthur Green, White Castle; three sons and daughters-in-law, Edward and Dianne Robinson and Alvin and Ollie Dennis, all of St. James, and Donald and Crystal Dennis, Donaldsonville; a sister, Elsie Dee Nelson, St. James; two brothers, Paul Madison, Donaldsonville, and Thomas Madison, St. Louis; 29 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, a great-great-grandchild, two sisters-in-law, a brother-in-law and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Evelyn Y. Madison; a daughter, Mary Lee Armstead; two sons, Lloyd Robinson and Edward Dennis; a sister, Clematine Carter; and two brothers, Joseph and Henry Madison. SANFORD, DOROTHY GIVENS "DOT" A retired supervisor at Port Allen Care Center and a resident of Baton Rouge, she died at 8:15 p.m. Monday, Dec. 10, 2001, at her residence. She was 69 and a native of Baton Rouge. Visiting at Winnfield Funeral Home from 8:30 a.m. Saturday until religious services at 12:30 p.m., conducted by the Rev. Carlo Bates Sr. Interment in Hope Cemetery. She is survived by a daughter, Jannie Stevens and husband Wesley, Baton Rouge; a son, Lionel Rogers, Houston; three sisters, Beulah Stokes, Mattie Wells, and Alice Faye McKnight and husband Wilbert, all of Baton Rouge; five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by husband, the Rev. Sidney E. Sanford; parents, Mannie and Morley Givens; three brothers and two sisters. Honorary pallbearers are the deacons of Greater Risen Sun Baptist Church. She was a member of the Greater Risen Sun Baptist Church, the Rev. Randell Ellison, pastor, the Deaconess Board and was a support group volunteer with the Greater Baton Rouge Cancer Services. SPEARS, SR. CLEVELAND Retired from American Standard Plumbing Supply Co. and a resident of New Orleans, he departed this life Saturday, Dec. 8, 2001, at Tulane University Hospital, New Orleans. He was 74 and a native of Greensburg. Memorial services at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 6536 Hayne Blvd., New Orleans, at noon Saturday, conducted by Brother Ronald St. Amant. He was an elder in the Industrial Canal Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses. MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home Inc., Denham Springs, in charge of arrangements. SPEARS, RONNIE LEDELL A resident and native of Clinton, he died at 12:44 p.m. Monday, Dec. 10, 2001, at Earl K. Long Medical Center. He was 33. Visiting at Richardson Funeral Home, Clinton, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday. Religious services at St. John Missionary Baptist Church, Clinton, at 1 p.m. Saturday, conducted by the Rev. Johnnie L. Turner, pastor. Interment in church cemetery. Survived by his father and stepmother, James and Jan Matthews; maternal grandmother, Myrtis P. Spears; paternal grandparents, Lewis and Mary Matthews; a brother, Johnny Ray Holmes; five aunts, five uncles, 10 great-aunts, five great-uncles; and numerous other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by his mother, Vera Mae Spears; and maternal great-grandparents, Clarence Sr. and Lizzie T. Powers. ELY, DONALD WAYNE A resident of Baton Rouge, he died at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center. He was 44. Visiting at Winnfield Funeral Home from 10 a.m. Tuesday until religious services at 12:30 p.m., conducted by the Rev. William Davis Sr. Burial in Winnfield Memorial Park. He is survived by three daughters, Yashica, Yacory and Raven, all of Baton Rouge; three sons, Donald Jr., Shean and Brandon, all of Baton Rouge; five grandchildren, Dontavious, Reginald, William, Trnity, Shania and her mother, Gladys Jackson; four sisters, Geraldine Weatherspoon, Joyce Turner, Debra Ely, and Yvette and husband Richard Brown; three brothers, Willie Ely Jr. and wife JoAnn, Randy Ely and wife Lisa and Reginald Ely, all of Baton Rouge; and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his father, Willie Ely Sr. and sister Pamela Ely. FLORIDA, KATIE MAE A homemaker and a resident and native of Baton Rouge, she died at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2001, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. She was 73. Visiting at Promised Land Baptist Church, 7234 Plank Road, from 9 a.m. Monday until religious services at 10 a.m., conducted by Pastor Richard London Sr. Interment in Winnfield Memorial Park. Survived by four daughters, Ida Johnson, Effie Porche, Diane Evans and Tammy Brown, all of Baton Rouge; six sons, Cornelius Johnson Sr., Houston, Tommy Ray Johnson Sr., Norris L. Johnson Sr., Robert W. Florida Sr. Michael Florida Sr. and Roosevelt Florida Jr.; three brothers, Frank Evans Jr., John Evans Sr. and Uleas Evans Sr.; 26 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by her loving husband, Roosevelt Florida Sr.; her mother and father, Savannah and Frank Evans Sr.; a brother, Willie Evans; an aunt, Effie Jones; two uncles, Prince Albert and Oliver Jones; and a beloved sister-in-law, Oree Evans. Pallbearers will be Robert W. Florida Sr., Michael Florida Sr., Roosevelt Florida Jr., Larry Eubanks, Cornelius Johnson Jr. and Norris L. Johnson Sr. Honorary pallbearers are Cornelius Johnson Sr., Tommy Ray Johnson Sr., Uleas Evans Sr., Frank Evans Jr., John Evans Sr. and Ted Evans. New Southside Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. GOINS, ANDRAE P. A native of Newellton and a resident of Baton Rouge, he was born Oct. 25, 1961. He departed this life at his mother's home in Baton Rouge on the morning of Dec. 13, 2001. He was a self-employed truck driver for North American Van Lines for 18 years. He will be remembered as a quiet, caring friend, for his work and generosity to others and his love for fishing. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers; his father, Andrew Goins; and a brother, Adrian Charles Goins. To mourn his passing he leaves a grandmother, Carrie Lee Pollard; mother, Earnestine Pollard Goins; a brother, Cedric Wayne Goins; a sister-in-law, LaShawn Davis Goins; and three nieces, Katari, Chloe and Kennedy, all of Baton Rouge. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and co-workers. Visiting at Winnfield Funeral Home, 7221 Plank Road, from 8:30 a.m. Tuesday until religious services at 10 a.m. Interment in Southern Memorial Gardens. JOHNSON, ELLA MAE ARCHIE "MAE MAE" A retired school teacher and resident of Baton Rouge, she died Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2001, at her residence. She was 69 and a native of Ventress. Visiting at New Southside Funeral Home, 924 S. 14th St., from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 18. Religious services at the funeral home chapel, at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, conducted by the Rev. James Graceson. Interment in St. Augustine Catholic Cemetery. Survived by four sister, Velma Victorian, Thelma Polk, Gevenia Williams and Ionna Goldsmith. Preceded in death by father and mother, two brothers and a sister. BOYER, ALETER J. "NANNY LEE" A resident and native of Baton Rouge, she died at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 16, 2001, at The Guest House. She was 91. Visiting at Desselle Funeral Home from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday. Religious services at Israelite Baptist Church, 1814 Thomas Delpit Drive, at 8 p.m. Wednesday, conducted by the Rev. Charles Lee Buris Sr. Dismissal at 10 a.m. Thursday. Interment in Lutheran Cemetery. She is survived by a daughter, Yvonne Michelle Knox; two nieces, Rosemary Brown, Baton Rouge, and Nona Mae Knox, Palo Alto, Calif.; two nephews, Leo and Dave Brown, both of Baton Rouge; four grandchildren, John, Chiquita, Kimberly and Jermaine Knox; six great-grandchildren, Kendrick, Adrian, Darius, Tyquell, Jaquise and Tiara Knox; and a host of other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by her parents, Calvin and Mary Jones; four sisters, a brother and a son-in-law. Desselle’s Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. BUTLER, NORMAN WILLIAM A self-employed cement finisher and a resident of Baton Rouge, he died Thursday, Dec. 13, 2001, at 4:55 p.m. at Earl K. Long Medical Center. He was 51 and a native of Rosedale. Visiting at A. Wesley Funeral Home, 10810 Ventress Drive, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday. Visiting at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 76950 Gum St., Grosse Tete, from 9 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Thursday, conducted by the Rev. Shelton Fabre. Interment in Ventress West Oak Cemetery, Maringouin. Survived by his mother, Viola Lathan Butler, Rosedale; four daughters, Demetrice, Montrelle and Normanquie Butler, all of Brusly, and Andrea Butler, Baton Rouge; seven sisters, Ruby Williams, Yvette Butler, Sandra E. Herring, Billie Sue Butler, Joyce D. Hayes, Gloria James and Lucille Dukes; six brothers, Earl Butler Jr., Wayne, Fred, Ivy, Ricky and Jackie Butler; five grandchildren; former wife, Peggy LeJeune Butler, who was mother of his girls; Dedrick Walker, whom he reared as a son; a close friend, Alice Walker; 10 brothers-in-law, 13 sisters-in-law, nine aunts, four uncles, a great-uncle and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. DANGERFIELD, KAROL DIANNE A homemaker and a resident and native of Baton Rouge, she died Saturday, Dec. 15, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center-Mid City. Visiting at Desselle’s Funeral Home from 2 p.m. Wednesday until religious services at 7 p.m., conducted by the Rev. C.C. Coleman. Survived by her husband, Leo White; four daughters, Jennifer, April, Magen and La’Chiro; two sons, Scott Foster and Guy Demerrill; two sisters, Ruthie and Wynta G. Dangerfield; four brothers, Sylvester, Walter, William and John; and 12 grandchildren. Preceded in death by her parents, Johnny Dangerfield and Permela Offord Dangerfield Veal. MATTHEWS, RAYMOND H. "TEE-NICHE" An employee of CAS Enterprises, he died Saturday, Dec. 15, 2001, at Lane Memorial Hospital, Zachary. He was 45 and a resident and native of Clinton. He was a U.S. Navy veteran. Visiting at Richardson Funeral Home, Clinton, from noon to 8 p.m. Wednesday. Religious services at Mount Hope Baptist Church at 11 a.m. Thursday, conducted by the Rev. L.L. Harris. Interment in Asbury Methodist Church Cemetery, Clinton. Survived by his wife, Corine Turner Matthews; parents, Louis and Mary Matthews; mother-in-law, Daisy Turner; three daughters, Cherryl, Katina and Jefferietta Turner; two sons, Kerrick and Hayes Turner; sisters, Dorothy Matthews, Gaynell M. Elzy, Arnett Young, Belinda Lafayette and Jannie Mark; three brothers, James, Robert and Michael Matthews; five grandchildren and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. ROBINSON, JR. COSTELLO A retired employee of the East Baton Rouge Parish School Board, he died peacefully at home at 3:15 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, 2001. He was 74 and a resident and native of Baton Rouge. Visiting at Winnfield Funeral Home from 4 p.m. until religious services at 7 p.m. Tuesday, conducted by the Rev. Ivory Payne. Dismissal at 10 a.m. Wednesday. Interment in Winnfield Memorial Park. Survived by his wife, Bertha Wells Robinson; seven daughters, Jacqueline A. Williams, Yvonne Thomas, Lucille R. Dunn, Betty Van Diver, Delores Emerson, Carol Pitts and Stephanie Robinson; four sons, Robert L. Robinson, George C. Robinson, Costello Robinson III and Owen Wilson; two sisters, Ruby Tenart and Velma Boyd; two brothers, Charles and Alfred Robinson; 42 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by Rosemary Robinson, Joseph Robinson, James Robinson, Beatrice Whitaker, Ronald Robinson and Clara Jay. Pallbearers will be sons and daughters. Honorary pallbearers are grandsons, Rodney Rayford, Benjamin Marchand, Robert J. Sadler and Thomas Van Diver Jr. JACKSON, JR. EUGENE A. "BOOTS" A retired employee of Louisiana Office Supply, he died at 5:36 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 16, 2001, at Sterling Place. He was 65 and a resident and native of Baton Rouge. He was a U.S. Army veteran. Visiting at Second Baptist Church from 9 a.m. Thursday until religious services at 10 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Melvin Rushing. Interment in Port Hudson National Cemetery. Survived by two daughters, Tina Jackson, San Clemente, Calif., and Brendia Ruffin, Baton Rouge; a son-in-law, Richard Ruffin Sr.; and five grandchildren. Preceded in death by father and mother, Eugene Sr. and Violet Jackson. Pallbearers will be Dereck Ruffin, Malcolm Ruffin, Phillip Ruffin, Richard Ruffin Jr., Troy Mathis and Elijah Wilkerson. Honorary pallbearers are Richard Ruffin Sr., Mark Small, James Fowler and Emile Aites. He was a 1955 graduate of Capitol Senior High School. Verrette's Pointe Coupee Funeral Home, New Roads, in charge of arrangements. ROBINSON, WILLIE THOMAS "BRO. ROB" A retired roofer and a resident of Baton Rouge, he died Friday, Dec. 14, 2001, at Earl K. Long Medical Center. He was 45. Visiting at New Southside Funeral Home from 1 p.m. Thursday until religious services at 7 p.m., conducted by the Rev. Donald R. Turner Sr. Dismissal at 10 a.m. Friday. Interment in Hope Cemetery. Survived by his wife, Jeanette Cowan-Robinson; a stepdaughter, Frazier Simmons; two stepsons, Rico and Randy Simmons; two sisters, Gloria Nunn, Los Angeles, and Scottie Robinson, Baton Rouge; a brother, Earl Robinson; three godchildren, Kevin Cowan Jr., Mona Thomas and Charles Williams; and three grandchildren. Preceded in death by parents, Sam S. and Beatrice F. Robinson; a brother, Sam Robinson Jr.; and a sister, Marion Washington. He was a 1974 graduate of Capitol High School. WHITE, KAROL DIANNE DANGERFIELD A homemaker and a resident and native of Baton Rouge, she died Saturday, Dec. 15, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center-Mid City. Visiting at Desselle's Funeral Home from 2 p.m. until religious services at 7 p.m. Wednesday, conducted by the Rev. C.C. Coleman. Survived by her husband, Leo White; four daughters, Jennifer, April, Magen and La'Chiro; two sons, Scott Foster and Guy Demerrill; two sisters, Ruthie and Wynta G. Dangerfield; four brothers, Sylvester, Walter, William and John; and 12 grandchildren. Preceded in death by her parents, Johnny Dangerfield and Permela Offord Dangerfield Veal. MILES, PRISCELLA A resident of Baton Rouge, she died Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center-Bluebonnet. She was 81 and a native of Gary, Ind. Visiting at New St. John Baptist Church from 11 a.m. Friday until religious services at 1 p.m., conducted by the Rev. W. Marshall Myles. Interment in Roselawn Memorial Park. Survived by a devoted husband, Joseph Miles Sr.; four daughters whom she acquired by marriage, Jo Ellen M. Robbs and Lind M. Williams, both of Baton Rouge, Jerrie M. Booker, Baker, and Janice M. Hendricks, Gonzales; and a son, whom she acquired by marriage, Joseph Miles Jr., Baton Rouge. Preceded in death by her father, mother and a brother. New Southside Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. PAYNE, JR. JOHNSON "SUNNY" A resident of Jackson and a native of Ethel, he departed this life on Monday, Dec. 17, 2001, at 10 p.m. at Lane Memorial Hospital, Zachary. He was 53. He was a graduate of West High School in 1966 and was employed for more than 20 years at Eastern Louisiana Mental Health System, Jackson, until his health declined. Sunny was a faithful and dutiful member of F.T. Missionary Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon, secretary of the Deacon Board, a member and secretary of the senior choir and assistant superintendent of the Sunday school. He was the speaker for the Amite River Baptist Association, correspondent secretary of the Amite River Baptist Association and an honorary member of the F.T. Baptist Church male chorus. He leaves to cherish his memory a loving wife, Hilda D. Payne; three children, Adrian, Dejuan and Alecia; a goddaughter, Joy K. Scott; a grandchild, Adrianna LaCara; father, Johnson Payne Sr.; a caring mother-in-law, Sarah J. Dunn; a loving grandmother, Fannie Payne; two brothers, Clarence Payne Sr. and Clyde Spain; four sisters, Dorothy West, Catherine King, Lois Griffin and Peralina Price; and a host of aunts, uncles, in-laws, nieces, nephews. other relatives and friends. Walk-in Thursday at Richardson Funeral Home, Clinton. Religious services at F.T. Baptist Church, Jackson, at 11 a.m. Friday, conducted by Elder Richard London Sr., pastor. Interment in church cemetery. POWERS, OSCAR Died Monday, Dec. 17, 2001, at his residence in Plaquemine. He was 94. Visiting at Good Citizens Mortuary, Plaquemine, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday. Visiting at Plymouth Rock Baptist Church from 5:30 p.m. until religious services at 8 p.m. Thursday, conducted by the Rev. Lee Wesley, pastor. Dismissal at 10 a.m. Friday. Interment in Homestead Cemetery. Survived by three daughters, Jane Powers, Mildred P. Cage and Annie P. Tatney; two sons, Thomas Powers Sr. and Pastor Arthur Powers; 29 grandchildren, 66 great-grandchildren, six great-great-grandchildren, other relatives and friends. WALKER, ANNIE RUTH LEE An educator with the St. Helena Parish school system for seven years and a retired U.S. Postal Service employee, she departed this life Friday, Dec. 14, 2001, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. She was 50, a resident of Baton Rouge and a native of Dennis Mills. Visiting at MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home Inc., 7803 Florida Blvd., Denham Springs, from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday. Visiting at Second Baptist Church, 914 N. Acadian Thruway, Baton Rouge, from 8 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Friday, conducted by the Rev. Leo Cyrus. Interment in Andrew Chapel United Methodist Church Cemetery, Dennis Mills. Survived by her husband, Johnny L. Walker, Baton Rouge; a son, Cory Webb, Baton Rouge; her mother, Catherine Morris Lee, Dennis Mills; a sister, Patricia Lee, Baton Rouge; four brothers and three sisters-in-law, Edward and Lillian Lee, Baton Rouge, Woodrow Jr. and Marilyn Lee, Houston, Raymond Sr. and Irena Lee, and Melvin Lee, all of Baton Rouge; three godchildren, Twana Lee, Houston, and Shandreka Morris and Breanna Lee, both of Baton Rouge; devoted friends, Marie Donald, Brooklyn, N.Y., Sallie Ann Robertson, Greensburg, and Peggy Rowe, Ramona Johnson, Gloria B. Taylor and Lucille Wilson, all of Baton Rouge; and a compassionate host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by her father, Woodrow Lee Sr.; maternal grandparents, Walter and Ora Morris; and paternal grandparents, Ernest "Nunza" and Flora Lee. She was educated in St. Helena Parish school system, where she graduated from high school in 1969. She received a bachelor of arts degree in elementary education in 1976 and a master's of education in 1984 from Southern University in Baton Rouge. WEATHERSBY, ODELIA A retired employee of Kean's Cleaners, she died at 10:25 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2001, at her residence in Baton Rouge. She was 80 and a native of Opelousas. Visiting at St. Mary's Baptist Church from 8 a.m. Friday until religious services at 10 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Conway L. Knighton. Burial in Port Hudson National Cemetery. Survived by a sister, Olevia Martin; and a brother, Rogers Florence. Preceded in death by her husband, M.H. Weathersby. Desselle's Funeral Home in charge of arrangements BUTLER, DOROTHY YATES "MRS. SWEET" A child care provider and a resident of Baton Rouge, she died Saturday, Dec. 15, 2001, at Earl K. Long Medical Center. She was 62 and a native of Jackson, Miss. Visiting at Winnfield Funeral Home from 8 a.m. Saturday until religious services at 10 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Eddie Sulcer Jr. Interment in Winnfield Memorial Park. Survived by six daughters, Junice, Sherry, Melissa and Michelle Yates, Kathy LeDuff and Annette Crockett; a son, Clifford Robins; and four sisters, Ernestine Brown, Pearl Higgins, Beverly Paul and Eddie M. Richard. Preceded in death by her husband, Jessie Butler; mother, father, a son, two brothers, a granddaughter and a stepdaughter. DANIELS, FANNIE JOSEPH A resident of Amite, she died Monday, Dec. 17, 2001, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge. She was 81 and a native of Darrow. Visitation at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday. Religious services at Butler AME Zion Church, Amite, at 7:30 p.m. Friday, conducted by the Rev. Dr. Francis Williams. Dismissal at 10 a.m. Saturday. Burial in Butler Cemetery, Amite. Survived by her husband, Fred Daniels, Amite; a daughter and son-in-law, Abigail D. and Kenneth York, Baton Rouge; two goddaughters, Christine C. Williams, Hammond, and Lynn Daniels, Amite; a godson, Walter "Bo" Harrison, Baton Rouge; a sister, Owena Huren, Lake Charles; two granddaughters, Monica Holden, Houston, and Marion York, Baton Rouge; a grandson, Brandon Richardson, Amite; and a great-granddaughter, Brianna Dyson, Hammond. Preceded in death by her parents, Etienne and Sarah Joseph; two sisters, Evelyn Pierce and Marion Leona Joseph; and a brother, Arthur Joseph. Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. HARRIS, ROOSEVELT A native of Maringouin and resident of Plaquemine, he died Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2001, at River West Medical Center. He was 63. Visitation at Roscoe Mortuary, 58635 Meriam St., Plaquemine, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday. Religious services at Greater St. Mary Baptist Church, Plaquemine, at 8 p.m. Friday, with the Rev. Orris Dupuy Sr. officiating minister. Dismissal at 11 a.m. Saturday. Interment Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2001, in Port Hudson National Cemetery. He is survived by three devoted sisters, Rose Mary Battiste and husband Eddie, Plaquemine, Lucille Harris, Houston, and Leola Walker and husband Perry, Plaquemine; devoted cousins, Henry Thomas and Howard Wilson; close friends, Huey Vessel and Frank Dominque; nieces and nephews, Geraldine Jefferson, Charisse Oubre, Concetta Oubre, Dawn Handy, Randall Dickerson, Troy L. Dickerson, Hendrika Hines, Quinton Dickerson, Hurice Oubre, Terry Dickerson, Perry Walker, Jason Walker and Byron Walker; and cousins, other relatives and friends MCKNEELY, JESSIE JAMES "POPCORN" A retired LSU Physical Plant painter and a resident of Baker, he died at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2001, at his residence. He was 59 and a native of Ethel. Visiting at St. Paul Free Baptist Church from 9 a.m. Saturday until religious services at 10 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Briscoe Pierre. Interment in Greenbriar Cemetery. Survived by wife, Zelma Lee McKneely; four daughters, Vereace Brown, LaSunia McKneely, Terri Lynn McKneely and Japonza Byrd; a son, Cedric McKneely; four sisters, Betty Mae, Vern Ella, Doris and Wanda; five brothers, Wilford Jr., Noah, Harold, Robert Lee and Jerome; and eight grandchildren. Preceded in death by parents, Wilford McKneely and Katie Mae McKneely; and a brother, Monroe McManus. He attended Northwestern High School, Zachary, and had a high interest in auto mechanics and his family. Richardson Funeral Home, Clinton, in charge of arrangements. MILES, PRISCELLA A resident of Baton Rouge, she died Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center-Bluebonnet. She was 81 and a native of Gary, Ind. Visiting at New St. John Baptist Church from 11 a.m. until religious services at 1 p.m. Friday, conducted by the Rev. W. Marshall Myles. Interment in Roselawn Memorial Park. Survived by a devoted husband, Joseph Miles Sr.; four daughters whom she acquired by marriage, Jo Ellen M. Robbs and Lind M. Williams, both of Baton Rouge, Jerrie M. Booker, Baker, and Janice M. Hendricks, Gonzales; and a son, whom she acquired by marriage, Joseph Miles Jr., Baton Rouge. Preceded in death by her father, mother and a brother. New Southside Funeral Home in charge of arrangements PORCHE, LAWRENCE EDWARD "LARRY" A merchant seaman and a resident of Baton Rouge, he died Saturday, Dec. 15, 2001, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. He was 50 and a native of Houma. Religious services at Winnfield Funeral Home at 10 a.m. Saturday. Interment in Winnfield Memorial Park. Survived by a longtime friend, Sheila Taylor and her son, Kevin K. Taylor Jarrell; a godchild, Mar'Kena Tasker; two nephews, Marcus and Damon; a great-nephew, Hendrick; a great-niece, Tyderica; two sisters, Emma Porche Knox and Lynda Marie Collins, both of Baton Rouge; and three brothers, Calvin Collins Jr., Minneapolis, Alton Collins, Long Beach, Calif., and Robert Collins, Baton Rouge. Preceded in death by his father, Lawrence Edward Porche Sr.; mother, Bridgett Ross Porche Collins; and a brother, Gregory Collins. SOUTHALL, FERDINAND A retired school bus driver for Pointe Coupee Parish School Board and resident of Maringouin, he died at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2001, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge. He was 87 and a native of Natchitoches. Visiting at Green Maringouin Funeral Home, 10840 Green St., from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday. Religious services at Little Zion Baptist Church, Livonia, at 11 a.m. Saturday, with the Rev. Willie Roy Martin officiating. Interment in Sunlight Baptist Church Cemetery, Blanks. Survived by his lifelong companion, Ocatavia Ell; two daughters, Rhonda Anderson and Felicia Anderson, both of Maringouin; two stepdaughters, Becki Hicks, Baton Rouge, and Linda Jarreau, Reno, Nev.; two sons, Ferdinand Southall Jr. and Kelvin Southall, both of Maringouin; two stepsons, Henry Ell, New Roads, and Randy Ell, Baton Rouge; 10 grandchildren, a great-grandchild and three godchildren. Preceded in death by parents, wife, Agnes Southall, and three brothers. Pallbearers will be family members. He was a senior deacon for about 20 years. WILLIAMS, ELECT LADY GERTRUDE GAYDEN "MARIE" A loving wife, mother, grandmother and sister, she died at 6:30 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2001, at Southwest Medical Regional Center, McComb, Miss. She was a resident of Summitt, Miss., and a native of Baton Rouge. Survived by her loving and devoted husband, Enoch Williams, McComb; a daughter, Michelle L. Owens, Baton Rouge; and five stepchildren, all of Amite; a loving father, Bishop Alfred Al Gayden; stepmother, Mary Gayden, Baton Rouge; a granddaughter, Jaila Owens; 15 stepgrandchildren; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Jacqueline K. and Alfred Plant Jr., Janice G. and Matthew Nunnery; and two brothers, Jessie Kilbourne and James "Charles" Nellon Jr., all of Baton Rouge; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by her mother, Elect Lady Eva Mae Gayden; and grandparents. Visiting at Winnfield Funeral Home from 5 p.m. Sunday until religious services at 7 p.m., conducted by Bishop T.E. Clark. Dismissal at 10 a.m. Monday. Interment in Southern Memorial Gardens. WILLIAMS, ISIAH "SON" A self-employed plumber and resident and native of Baton Rouge, he died Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2001, at Sterling Place. He was 71. Visiting at Jordan United Methodist Church from noon Saturday until religious services at 2 p.m. Interment in Hope Cemetery. Survived by two daughters, Alma Williams and Patricia W. Albert; five sons, Desi, Cleveland, Gregory, Walter and Malcolm Knight; two sisters, Elizabeth Augustus and Lovie Williams; 20 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Winnfield Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. WILLIAMS, JOSEPHINE HOWARD A resident and native of Baton Rouge, she departed this life Friday, Dec. 14, 2001, as the result of an automobile accident. She was 24. Visiting at Greater King David Baptist Church, 222 Blount Road, Baton Rouge, the Rev. John E. Montgomery II, pastor, from 8 a.m. Saturday until religious services at 10 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Daniel Smith. Interment in Southern Memorial Gardens, Baton Rouge. MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home Inc., Denham Springs, in charge of arrangements. WINFIELD, PEARL SMITH "MAMA PEARL" A resident and native of Baton Rouge, she died at 5 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2001, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. She was 91. Visiting at Winnfield Funeral Home from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday. Religious services at Israelite Baptist Church at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, conducted by the Rev. Dr. Charles Burris, Ph.D. Entombment in Greenoaks Memorial Park Mausoleum. Survived by five daughters, Dorothy Durio, Vera Jones and husband Alvin, Joyce Hatch, Helen Loretta Rankins and husband Arthur, and Ruth Brown and Beatrice Jones, all of Baton Rouge; a son, Lloyd Winfield, Minnesota; two sisters, Louise Henderson and Mary Lee Bazile; 28 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and three great- great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by her husband, Samuel Winfield; two sons, Edward and Samuel Winfield; mother, Annie Bell Davis; and two sisters, Lucy Servick and Elnora Jones. WOODS, SR. PERCY "COKIE" A retired laborer with the East Baton Rouge Parish Department of Public Works, he died at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, 2001, at Earl K. Long Medical Center. He was 68, a resident of Baton Rouge and a native of Lakeland. Visiting at Winnfield Funeral Home from 8:30 a.m. Saturday until religious services at 12:30 p.m., conducted by the Rev. Morris Jackson Jr. Interment in Southern Memorial Gardens. Survived by his wife, Thelma J. Woods; mother, Emma McDormic; six daughters, six sons, 14 sisters, five brothers, 36 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by his father, a daughter, two sisters and two brothers. COLLINS, ALBERTHA A native and resident of Donaldsonville, she died at 2:15 a.m. Friday, Dec. 21, 2001, at her home. She was 78. Visiting at Emmanuel Baptist Church, Donaldsonville, from 9:30 a.m. Thursday until religious services at 11 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Rodney Dugas, pastor. Burial in church cemetery. Survived by two daughters, Bernice W. August, Donaldsonville, and Barbara A. Williams, Baton Rouge; a son, Joseph Nelson Jr., Donaldsonville; a sister, Lillie Mae Joseph; two brothers, Lionel and Rush Collins Jr., both of Donaldsonville; two sisters-in-law, Vivian and Lou Ethel Collins, both of Donaldsonville; seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; a godchild, Shari Collins; nieces, nephews and cousins; a brother-in-law, Clifton Joseph Sr.; a son-in-law, Kenneth August; other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by parents, Rush Collins Sr. and Leontine Brooks Collins; two sisters, Emma B. Comeaux and Leontine Craig; a brother, Percy Collins; and two daughters, Ruth W. James and Albertha Williams. Brazier-Watson Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. GREEN, JR. WILLIE H. A retired printer and a resident of Baton Rouge, he died at noon Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2001, in Atlanta. He was 81 and a native of Monroe. He was a U.S. Army veteran. Visiting at Neely United Methodist hurch from 9 a.m. Thursday until religious services at 11 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Arnold Brown. Interment in Southern Memorial Gardens. Survived by two sons, Kirby A. Green, M.D., New Orleans, and minister Jacques L. Green, Atlanta; two brothers, Pha M. Green and wife Joan, Houston, and Don H. Green and wife Evangeline, Port Arthur, Texas; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy Lafayette Green; and parents. Pallbearers will be family, church members and friends. He was a graduate of Southern University and a member of Omega Psi Phi fraternity and Capital City Golf Association. He was a Mason and member of Prince Hall Twilight Lodge 166 in Baton Rouge. Desselle Funeral Home, 263 Eddie Robinson Sr. Drive, in charge of arrangements. JACKSON, LEANDREW A resident of Alexandria, he died Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2001, at Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Alexandria. He was 78 and a native of Baton Rouge. He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II. Visiting at Winnfield Funeral Home, 7221 Plank Road, from 8 a.m. Thursday until religious services at 10 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Willie Finister. Interment in Port Hudson National Cemetery. Survived by two daughters, Gwendolyn Jackson Wade and Rhonda Jackson; a brother-in-law, Willie Walker; a stepdaughter, Deidra Hughes Curtis; a stepson-in-law, Ventrice Curtis; two devoted nieces, Delores Jenkins and Shirley Dangerfield; two special friends, Ernest and Norma Throw; three grandchildren, Rico, Sidney and Alexis; two stepgrandchildren, Deventria and Ventrice Jr.; a great-grandchild, Trenton; and a host of great-nieces and great-nephews. Preceded in death by parents, Joe Nathan and Cecile Jackson; a son, Arnold Jackson; a sister, Hazel Walker; a brother, George Scott; and two great-nephews, Charles Dangerfield and Damien Jenkins. MCGEE, ROSE ELLA BROWN "SISTER" A retired food-service employee of the East Baton Rouge Parish School Board and a resident of Baton Rouge, she died at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 21, 2001, at Louisiana Guest House. She was 80 and a native of Zachary. Visiting at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church from 9 a.m. Thursday until religious services at 11 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Norwood C. Booker. Interment in Port Hudson National Cemetery. Survived by two daughters, Delores M. Newton and Rose Mary Duncan and husband Anderson Willie, all of Baton Rouge; a stepdaughter, Albertha Williams, Baton Rouge; a godchild, Albert James Dixon, Baker; two sisters, Essie Mae Brown Peterson and Margaret Brown Dixon Duncan, both of Zachary; seven grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and numerous other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by her husband, Harris McGee; a son, Harris Samuel McGee; father, Arthur Brown; mother, Hettie Brown Veal; three brothers and two sisters. Carney-Mackey Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. SANDERS, PINKIE S. A retired schoolteacher and a resident of Baker, she died Thursday, Dec. 20, 2001, in Baker. She was 69 and a native of Clarksdale, Miss. Visiting at Winnfield Funeral Home from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Wednesday. Visiting at Greater Mount Carmel Baptist Church from noon until religious services at 2 p.m. Wednesday, conducted by the Rev. Fred Jeff Smith, pastor. Interment in Southern Memorial Gardens. Survived by her husband, George Sanders; four sons, Gerald Sanders, Warren and wife Brenda Sanders, Reginald Sanders and Frederick Sr. and wife Cindy Sanders; two sisters, Callie and husband C.T. Taylor, Dayton, Ohio, and Della Olden, East St. Louis, Ill.; two brothers, Joseph Jr. and wife Laura Thigpen, Atlanta, and Ronald and wife Delores Thigpen, Cincinnati; and eight grandchildren, Frederick Jr., Marcus, Justin, Erin, Skyye, Angella, Roderick and Rheachelle. She earned bachelor of science and master of science degrees in secondary education from Southern University. WALKER, MARY YOUNG A retired custodian at the LSU microbiology laboratory and a resident of Baton Rouge, she died at 9:45 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 20, 2001, at Acadian Nursing Center. She was 89 and a native of Rogillioville. Visiting at McKowen Baptist Church, 1255 Louise St., from 9 a.m. Thursday until religious services at 11 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Gerard A. Robinson Sr. Interment in Gilbert Memorial Park. Survived by a son, Aldrich "Tu-Tu" Harris. Preceded in death by her husband, Daniel Walker; and a son, Barry Coleman. She had more than 40 years of service as an usher at McKowen Baptist Church. Desselle Funeral Home, 263 Eddie Robinson Sr. Drive, in charge of arrangements. WHEELER, SR. JOSEPH A resident and native of Baton Rouge, he died at 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2001, at Heritage House. He was 84. Visiting at Capital Funeral Home from 9 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Thursday. Interment in Hope Cemetery. Survived by two sons, Joseph Jr. and Michael Wheeler; a sister and a brother. Preceded in death by parents; wife, Ruby A. Wheeler; a sister and a brother. BELL, SR. MAJOR "MIKE" "MOLEY" A retired master plasterer and a resident of Baton Rouge, he died at 10:40 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center. He was 95 and a native of East Baton Rouge Parish. Visiting at Des-selle Funeral Home, 263 Ed-die Robinson Sr. Drive, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday. Wake services at Greater Antioch Baptist Church, 2139 Nebraska St., at 7 p.m. Friday. Funeral services at the church at noon Saturday, conducted by the Rev. Levert Kemp. Interment in Bell’s Cemetery. Survived by three daughters, Rachel B. Wright and Eleanor M. and husband John H. Thomas III, all of Baton Rouge, and Elnora Coleman of San Francisco; three sons, Major Bell Jr. of Baton Rouge, Norman and wife Oralee Bell of Toledo, Ohio, and Johnel Bell of Atlanta; a sister-in-law, Leola Bell of Baton Rouge; 17 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and 14 great-great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by wife, Bessie M. Bell; parents, Hamp and Francis Bell; three sons, Arthur, William and Bertell Bell; six brothers, five sisters; and a great-grandson, Johnny Cox. He was instrumental to many young men while instructing them in the skill of plastering at Capitol Area Vocational School. He was a member of Knox Enterprise 9499 (G.U.O.F.) and Plasterers Union Local 812. The family would like to thank the Heritage House Nursing Home for their gentle and loving care during his stay there DAVID, DORITHA LEMOINE "NANAN" She went to meet her savior at 11:40 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center-Bluebonnet. She was a loving wife, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother and sister. She was 82, a native of Chenal and resident of Bueche. Visiting at Sharon Baptist Church, Erwinville, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday and 8 a.m. until religious services at 10 a.m. Friday, conducted by the Rev. Shawn Ostoj. Interment in church cemetery. Survived by a son, Richard J. David, Bueche; three daughters and sons-in-law, Bertha and Robin Hood, Denham Springs, Rita and Kildren Sproles, Jarreau and Syvlia and Jeff Day Sr., Maringouin; a sister, Mabel Hood, Denham Springs; a brother, Aristede Lemoine Sr., Jarreau; 15 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, a great-great-grandchild and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by husband, Richard J. David Sr.; a daughter, Rosemary Derbes; an infant daughter, Eula Mae David; and parents, Xavier and Lina Major Lemoine. Pallbearers will be grandsons. She was an active member of Sharon Baptist Church. Wilbert Funeral Home, Port Allen, in charge of arrangements. ELMORE, JR. EDDIE "JUNE" A letter carrier with Southeast Post Office, he died at 2 a.m. Friday, Dec. 21, 2001, at his home. He was 52 and a resident and native of Baton Rouge. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran. Visiting at Hall’s Mortuary, Port Allen, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday. Visiting at Union Baptist Church, Brusly, from 5 p.m. until religious services at 8 p.m. Thursday, conducted by the Rev. Samuel Singleton. Dismissal at 10 a.m. Friday. Interment in Union Baptist Church Cemetery. Survived by his wife, Claudette Elmore; father, Eddie Elmore Sr.; mother, Fannie P. Jones; three daughters, Erika, Inga and Nicole Elmore, all of Baton Rouge; a niece whom he raised, Jamie Williams, Baton Rouge; a daughter-in-law, Tarva Miller; a son, Lawrence Miller Jr., Baton Rouge; a son-in-law, Emmitt Martin Jr.; six sisters, Shiela Snearl, Port Allen, Sheryl Snearl, Baton Rouge, Constance Snearl, South Carolina, the Rev. Ann Ambers, New Iberia, and Pat and Vaughn Elmore, both of California; a brother, Walter Georgetown, Richmond, Calif.; and seven grandchildren, Eric, Terrance, Denzel, Edward, Kiana, Byron and Chynna. Preceded in death by a sister, Betty Cummings; three nieces, Felita Jackson, Kimberly Young and Tondria Cummings; godparents and maternal and paternal grandparents. He attended college for two years while in the service, and earned a bachelor of science degree from Contra Costa College in Richmond, Calif. NOLAN, CEOLA HOWARD Retired and a resident of Baton Rouge, she died at 4:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 21, 2001, at HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital. She was 65 and a native of Lacour. Visiting at Winnfield Funeral Home from 1 p.m. until religious services at 8 p.m. Friday, conducted by the Rev. Calvin Spear. Dismissal at 12:30 p.m. Saturday. Interment in Mount Olive Baptist Church Cemetery. Survived by husband, Clarence Nolan; three daughters and two sons-in-law, Janet and Thomas Scott of Zachary, Jackie Howard and Nora and Johnny Barton of Baton Rouge; three sons and a daughter-in-law, Morris and Judy Howard, Atlanta and Gregory W. Howard and Clarence Nolan Jr. of Baton Rouge; four sisters, Etheline Grigsby and Oralee Howard of Baton Rouge, Cornelia Howard of Port Allen and Doretha Honore of New Roads; eight sisters-in-law, Helen Howard, Olivia Sam, Alice Nolan, Elouise Scarbrough, Johnnie Howard and Mamie Howard of Baton Rouge, Rohelia Howard of Morganza and Shirley Molex of New Roads; a brother, Charlie C. Howard of Morganza; a brother-in-law and wife, Roosevelt and Marilyn Nolan of Baton Rouge; 16 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by parents, Freddie and Ethel Howard. SIMMONS, BEATRICE JOHNSON "CAKEY" A homemaker and a resident of Baton Rouge, she died at 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 21, 2001, in Baton Rouge. She was 94 and a native of Morganza. Visiting at Mount Era Baptist Church, Morganza, from 9 a.m. Saturday until religious services at noon, conducted by the Rev. Russell Jackson. Interment in Mount Era Cemetery. Survived by a daughter, Jessie Lecoq; three sons, Eugene Landry, Matthew Johnson Jr. and John A. Johnson; four stepsons, Elmo, Leon, Clarence and Leroy; 22 grandchildren, 72 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by sons, Joseph and Alfred; husband, father and mother, three brothers and two sisters. Special thanks to Hospice Care of Louisiana Inc., for their care and dedication. Pointe Coupee Funeral Home, New Roads, in charge of arrangements. WAGNER, JOHNNY FRANK "BAT-MAN" A self-employed construction worker, he died at 3:15 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2001, at Veterans Affairs Medical Center, New Orleans. He was 54 and a resident and native of Baton Rouge. He was a U.S. Army veteran. Visiting at New Gideon Baptist Church, 2552 Balis Drive, from 9 a.m. Friday until religious services at 10 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Thomas Bessix. Interment in Port Hudson National Cemetery. Survived by his mother, Ethel King; stepfather, Phillip King; five sisters, Mildred Marchand, Brenda Wagner, Doris Williams, Carolyn Agnew and Cheryl Chambliss, all of Baton Rouge; three stepsisters, Mildred and Margaret King and Sandra Coleman, all of Baton Rouge; five brothers, Thomas, Ernest, Willie and Charles Wagner, all of Baton Rouge, and Robert Wagner, Denver; and six stepbrothers, Phillip Jr., Roy, Warren, Andrew, Alonzo and Ronald King, all of Baton Rouge. Preceded in death by his father, Tome Wagner; a brother, Clyde Wagner; a sister, hirley Burrell; a stepsister, Joyce Harris; a stepbrother, Wilbert King; and grandparents. Pallbearers will be Glynn Chambliss, Curtis Williams, Rawl Clark, Klovis Dunn, Kenneth Burrell, David Wagner, Tony Wagner and Marvin Lewis. Honorary pallbearers are his brothers and stepbrothers. He was a graduate of McKinley High School. Desselle Funeral Home, 263 Eddie Robinson Sr. Drive, in charge of arrangements. WILLIAMS, ELAINE L. A native and resident of Baton Rouge, she died at 12:25 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center. She was 52. Visiting at Desselle Funeral Home, 263 Eddie Robinson Sr. Drive, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday. Religious services at the funeral home at 10 a.m. Saturday, conducted by Pastor Donald Ray Sterling. Interment in Gilbert Memorial Park. Survived by mother, Willie Mae Williams; four daughters, Yvette White, Alice Williams, Okima Williams and Chanrika White; two sisters, Nita Dunbar and Gwendolyn Williams; a brother, Michael Williams; two sons-in-law, Brian White and Harry Lee White; two sisters-in-law, Desiree Williams and Ramona Williams; a brother-in-law, William T. Dunbar; and 14 grandchildren. Preceded in death by a brother, Leonard Williams Jr.; father, Leonard Williams Sr.; and an aunt, Julia Mae Franklin. HARRIS, IVY A. Retired from South Central Bell and a resident of Baton Rouge, she died Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2001. She was 95, born on Oct. 23, 1906, in Jackson. Visiting at McKowen Baptist Church, 1255 Louise St., from 9 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Friday, conducted by the Rev. Gerard A. Robinson Sr. Interment in Southern Memorial Gardens. Sister Ivy Harris united her membership with McKowen Baptist Church under the pastorate of the Rev. Oscar Livous. She was appointed to serve as a deaconess by the Rev. Livous, and served faithfully until her health dictated otherwise. She was also a member of the Pastor’s Aid Club at McKowen until she became unable to serve. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sisters and brothers. She leaves to cherish her memory a son, Thomas Atkins; a devoted niece and great-nephew, Cynthia Matthews and Darrain Matthews; a devoted niece, Deloris Thomas; a cousin, Annetter W. Lewis; a devoted nephew, George Smith; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Desselle Funeral Home, 263 Eddie Robinson Sr. Drive, in charge of arrangements. JENKINS, III ANDREW E. "DREW" An employee of Giamanco’s Restaurant and a resident of Baton Rouge, he died Saturday, Dec. 22, 2001, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. He was 40 and a native of Louisiana. Visiting at New Southside Funeral Home from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday. Religious services at the funeral home at 11 a.m. Saturday, conducted by the Rev. Conway L. Knighton. Interment in Roselawn Memorial Park. Survived by his wife, Classie Jenkins; stepfather and stepmother, Robert Gayden and Rebecca Gayden; two daughters, Amanda Jenkins and Andrea Jenkins; three sisters, Sabrina Comeager, Josie Jenkins and Shandra Jenkins; and three brothers, Donald Comeager, Rapheal Jenkins and Shelton Jenkins. Preceded in death by father, Andrew Jenkins; mother, Mary Jenkins; and grandmother, Amanda Price. Pallbearers will be Warren Williams, Keldrick Lewis, Colton Carter, Kenneth Harris, Percy Jacobs and Erwin Lee. Honorary pallbearers are Donald Comeager, Isaiah Dunn Sr., Isaiah Dunn, Mark Dunn, Troy Hayes, Shelton Jenkins, Steven Lawrence and Adam Taylor. JOHNSON, HATTIE A resident of Baton Rouge, she died at 7 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 22, 2001, at Sterling Place. She was 80 and a native of Batchelor. Visiting at First Emmanuel Baptist Church, 575 Education St., from 9 a.m. Saturday until religious services at 11 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Henry Brown. Interment in New St. Mark Baptist Church Cemetery, Batchelor. Survived by two daughters, Ellen B. Washington and minister Annie Bell Fair, both of Baton Rouge; three sons, Willie Brown, Lake Charles, and Melton Thomas and Roy Rogers Johnson, both of Baton Rouge; a sister, Julia Johnson, Beaumont, Texas; 20 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by her parents, Willie and Minnie Johnson; two sons, Oscar "Boo" Johnson and Johnnie Johnson; and two daughters, Shirley Mae Thomas and Rosemary Franklin. Rhodes United Fidelity Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. JONES, ROLIN A resident of Baton Rouge, he died Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2001. He was 60. Memorial services at Winnfield Funeral Home from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, conducted by the Rev. Lester Craig. Survived by wife, Lorraine Jones; a son, Christopher Jones; four sisters, Claire J. Lawrence, Joyce Oliver Craig, June Jones Breaux and Theresa Jones; and four brothers, Lloyd, Hillary, Claiborne and Alton Jones. Preceded in death by mother, Lillian Jones and father, Rolin Jones Sr. JOSEPH, ESTELLA JOHNSON "STELL" A native of Onedia and a resident of Gramercy, she died at 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2001, as a result of an automobile accident. She was 79. Visiting at Mount Olive Baptist Church, Paulina, from 10 a.m. Saturday until religious services at noon, conducted by the Rev. Elmo Lee. Burial in Antioch Baptist Church Cemetery, Paulina. Survived by her husband, Samuel Joseph Sr., Gramercy; three daughters, Melba Jean Rousseau, Gramercy, and Hilda Brockett and Wanda Davis, both of Houston; five sons, Spencer and Samuel Joseph Jr., both of Gramercy, Paul Michael and Mitchell Joseph, both of Houston, and Sidney Joseph, Reserve; two brothers, Theodore Johnson, Harvey, and the Rev. John Henry Johnson, Gretna; two sisters, Albertha Marcel, Paulina, and Theresa Thompson, Convent; 26 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, three daughters-in-law, a son-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by parents, Fredrick Johnson and Dora Smith Johnson; a son, Ernest Hayes; a daughter, Stella Louise Bailey; three brothers, Arthur Sr., Alfred and Frank Johnson Sr.; and two sisters, Alma Martin and Aldonia Holloway. Brazier-Watson Funeral Home, in charge of arrangements. KELLY, EARL "HOOK" A commercial drivers license certified personnel driver for Feliciana Redi-Mix, he died about 6:15 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 23, 2001. He was 49 and a resident and native of Clinton. Visiting at Richardson Funeral Home, Clinton, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday. Religious services at New Hope Baptist Church at 11 a.m. Saturday, conducted by the Rev. Mac Henry Wallace. Interment in church cemetery. Survived by his wife, Betty G. Kelly; mother, Elnora Kelly; two daughters, Angela K. Hamilton and Lanessa K. Whitley; two sons, Earl Kelly Jr. and Titus Jackson; four sisters, Adell Kelly, Samella Tuner, Sarah Kelly and Jacquline K. Matthews; two brothers, Burnell Kelly and Horce Whiten; and four grandchildren. Preceded in death by father, Sam Kelly. MORRIS, SR. JOHNNY "SONNY" A resident and native of Dennis Mills, he departed this life Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2001, at his home. He was 68. Visiting at MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home Inc., 7803 Florida Blvd., Denham Springs, from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday. Visiting at Greater Refuge Temple, 1005 N.W. Central Ave., Amite, from 9 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Saturday, conducted by Elder Joseph Ricard, pastor. Interment in Andrew Chapel Methodist Church Cemetery, Dennis Mills. Survived by his wife, Clara Hills Morris, Dennis Mills; three sons, Johnny Morris Jr., Utica, N.Y., Eric Morris, Atlanta, and Lonzelle Morris, Baton Rouge; three daughters and two sons-in-law, Shenitha Morris, Baton Rouge, Cherry and Adolphus Lee, Dennis Mills and Evelyn and Farnando McMorris, Greensburg; four brothers and four sisters-in-law, Mills and Bessie Mae Morris, Walter Jr. and Laura Morris, Edgar and Alma Morris and Huey P. and Earline Morris, all of Dennis Mills; two sisters and a brother-in-law, Catherine Lee and Earline and Johnny Lang, all of Dennis Mills; mother-in-law, Cloria Hills, Baywood; grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law and numerous other relatives and friends. ROGERS, LILLIAN E. "HONEY" A resident and native of Slaughter, she died Saturday, Dec. 22, 2001, at her residence. She was 89. Visiting at Richardson Funeral Home, Clinton, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday. Religious services at the funeral home at 11 a.m. Saturday, conducted by Brother George. Interment in Whitley Cemetery, Slaughter. Survived by a daughter, Myrtis Rogers; two sons, Joe Nathan Rogers and Oca Rogers; a sister, Alma Burden; a brother, Lee Hardy Whitley; 47 grandchildren, 55 great-grandchildren and 45 reat-great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by husband, Moses Rogers; parents, a son, three daughters, seven sisters and three brothers. RUFFIN, HENRY A resident of Baton Rouge, he died Friday, Dec. 21, 2001, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. He was 96 and a native of Wilmer. Visiting at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday. Religious services at Richardson Chapel Church of God in Christ, Baton Rouge, at 11 a.m. Saturday, conducted by Superintendent C.H. Gordon. Burial in Mount Canaan Baptist Church Cemetery. Survived by two sons, LeRoy Ruffin and wife Ida, Zachary, and Eugene Ruffin and wife Carolyn, Baker; a stepson, Thomas Jackson and wife Melinda, Baton Rouge; two daughters, Gloria Walker and husband Melvin and Barbara Smith-Quin and husband Sam, all of Baton Rouge; a daughter-in-law, Shirley Ruffin, Baton Rouge; a devoted niece, Ophelia Washington, Roseland; and a host of other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by his parents; wife, Doris Ruffin; two daughters, a son, a brother and two sisters. SCOTT, MARIO KEMP A resident of Baton Rouge, he died Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2001, as a result of an automobile accident. He was employed with Brown Eagle. He was 28 and a native of Los Angeles. Visiting at Mount Gideon Church, 77700 West Oak Lane, Maringouin, from 4 p.m. until wake services at 8 p.m. Friday, conducted by the Rev. Reginald Pitcher. Funeral at noon Saturday. Interment in church cemetery. Survived by parents, Gregory and Patricia Scott; seven aunts, four uncles, a special friend, Aimee Eby, and a host of relatives, friends, neighbors and co-workers. A. Wesley Funeral Home, 10810 Ventress Dr., Maringouin, in charge of arrangements. SIMMONS, BEATRICE JOHNSON "CAKEY" A homemaker and a resident of Baton Rouge, she died at 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 21, 2001, in Baton Rouge. She was 94 and a native of Morganza. Visiting at Mount Era Baptist Church, Morganza, from 9 a.m. Saturday until religious services at noon, conducted by the Rev. Russell Jackson. Interment in Mount Era Cemetery. Survived by a daughter, Jessie Lecoq; three sons, Eugene Landry, Matthew Johnson Jr. and John A. Johnson; four stepsons, Elmo, Leon, Clarence and Leroy; 22 grandchildren, 72 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by sons, Joseph and Alfred; husband, father and mother, three brothers and two sisters. Special thanks to Hospice Care of Louisiana Inc., for their care and dedication. Pointe Coupee Funeral Home, New Roads, in charge of arrangements. SIMPSON, DOROTHY MAE "MAMA" A resident of Baton Rouge, she died at 7:47 p.m. Friday, Dec. 21, 2001, at Earl K. Long Medical Center. She was 36 and a native of Louisiana. Visiting at Southside Funeral Home from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday. Religious services at the funeral home at 9 a.m. Saturday, conducted by the Rev. Bennie Veal. Interment in Hope Cemetery. Survived by mother, Dorothy J. Simpson; four daughters, Valery, Ashley, Kristal and Cherille Simpson, all of Baton Rouge; three sons, Leroy Simpson, Wilson Sip III and Gerald Sip; four sisters, two brothers; and a grandson, Jalen Deon. Preceded in death by her father, a sister, and two aunts. PATTERSON, JAMES "MOOT-PAT" A retired driver for LSU Plant Stores, he died Thursday, Dec. 27, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center. He was 68 and a resident and native of Baton Rouge. He was a U.S. Army veteran. Visiting at Bethany World Prayer Center from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. Religious services at the church at 12:30 p.m. Monday, conducted by the Rev. Darrayl Jack. Interment in church cemetery. Survived by wife, Dolores Patterson; two daughters, Terry White, Phoenix, and Saundra Mims Minor, Baton Rouge; three sons, Anthony Mims, New Orleans, Zarif Shamsid-Deen ( Darrenn), Macon, Ga., and Sidney Mims, Euless, Texas; two brothers, Frank Hebert, Chicago, and David Patterson Jr., Baton Rouge; eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by mother, Martha Lamb; father, David Patterson Sr.; a brother, Leon Jackson; and a sister, Mildred Braxton Williams. Pallbearers will be Ivory Gage, Rickey Lamb, Monroe Green, Ronnie Robertson, Poindexter Henderson and Sidney Mims. Winnfield Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. PITCHER, DARYL W. A painter with Classic Painting and a resident and native of Baton Rouge, he died Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2001, in Baton Rouge. He was 42. Visiting at Greater Sixty Aid Baptist Church, 4510 Rabey St., from 5 p.m. Sunday until religious services at 7 p.m., conducted by the Rev. Reginald Pitcher. Dismissal at 10 a.m. Monday. Interment in Gilbert Memorial Park. Survived by his wife, Marilyn Pitcher; mother, Louvenia J. Pitcher; three daughters, Melissa, Rita and Carolyn Pitcher; four sons, Micheal, Daryl, Jason and Teran Pitcher; three sisters, Denise and husband Samuel Joseph, and Cheryl and Anita Pitcher; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by his father and a brother. Lawson-Rollins Purple Shield Funeral Home, Gonzales, in charge of arrangements. WALKER, SR. FREDDIE "FOX" A retired construction worker and a resident of Baton Rouge, he died at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2001, at Earl K. Long edical Center. He was 74 and a native of Chamberlin. He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II and received the Victory Medal. Visiting at Hall's Mortuary, Port Allen, from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Religious services at St. Joseph Baptist Church, Baton Rouge, at 10 a.m. Monday, conducted by the Rev. Donald Grimm. Interment in Port Hudson National Cemetery. Survived by his wife, Louella Walker; three daughters, Audrey M. Brock, Mary L. Byrd and Bernadine Mitchell; six sons, John Allen III, Freddie Walker Jr., Lyonell Walker, Micheal T. Walker, Ronald L. Walker and Donald R. Walker; a sister, Bertha Mae Arnold; 36 grandchildren and 45 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by his mother, Lillie Queen Brown; father, Walter Walker; a son, Charles E. Walker; and a sister, Mary Russell. WALKER, MARGARET Q. A waitress at Waffle House and a lifelong resident of Pearl River, she died Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2001, in Baton Rouge as a result of complications from surgery. She was 51. She was the mother of Melissa Gaff Howell and Angel Faye Gaff Martin; daughter of Ethel Walker of Pearl River and the late William Chester "Buddy" Walker; sister of Mary Breland Mayfield, Maxine Crawford, Mona Smith, Melody Martindale, Martin Walker and Michael Walker; and grandmother of four grandchildren. Visiting was at Williams Funeral Home, 67525 La. 41, Pearl River, from 10 a.m. until religious services at 2 p.m. Friday, conducted by Brother Robert Martin. Interment was in Bethlehem Cemetery. JAMES, JR. CLARENCE C. A beloved son, brother, uncle, grandfather, cousin and friend, Clarence C. James Jr., 53 years old, died peacefully at 12:45 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 27, 2001, in Baton Rouge after a brief illness. For many years, he worked in a family-owned business, Varsity Cleaners, and later retired from Casino Rouge. Religious services will be held at Bethany World Prayer Center in Baker on Wednesday at 11 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Alfred Moore. Visitation from 9 a.m. until service time. Interment in Bethany Cemetery. He is survived by his mother, Annie B. James; a sister and brother-in-law, Cheryl and Noland Johnson; a daughter, Atlantis Vaughn; a granddaughter, Brea McQuillon; two nieces, Chandra Johnson and Jill Johnson Bishop and husband Calvin Bishop; a great nephew, Noland T. Johnson; an aunt and her family, Eva and Clifford Rodney; first cousins, Varick Rodney and family, Iris Rodney Davis and family and Curt Rodney and family; a first cousin in New York, Gloria Chavis and husband Tony and family; a cousin, Delores Belona and family; and a host of other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence C. James Sr.; a very special first cousin, Carlos A. Rodney; and maternal and paternal grandparents. He graduated from C apitol High School in 1966 and attended Southern University. The family wishes to thank Dr. Fabreca and staff, and Hospice of Baton Rouge. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Baton Rouge. Arrangements entrusted to Pointe Coupee ROYAL, FREDERICK A. A retired welder with C.J. Bean and Port Allen Marine, he died Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2001, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge. He was 55 and a U.S. Army veteran. Visiting at Good Citizens Mortuary, Plaquemine, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Visiting at Little Rock Baptist Church, 26865 Intracoastal Road, Plaquemine, from 5:30 p.m. until religious services 7 p.m. Sunday, conducted by the Rev. Wade Mulmore, pastor. Dismissal at 11 a.m. Monday. Interment in Grace Memorial Park. Survived by his father, Lloyd Royal Sr.; two daughters and a son-in-law, Timmiette and Emanuel Jacob III and Sonetra Royal; a son and daughter-in-law, Frederick Jr. and Jennifer Royal; four grandchildren, Cheyenne Walker, and Eboniss, Darius and Emanuel Jacob IV; two stepgrandchildren, Robin and Alfred Watts; four brothers and three sisters-in-law, Randolph Royal, Jackie and Catherine Royal, Jerome and Linda Royal and Otis and Vanessa Royal; three sisters and two brothers-in-law, Carol and Louis Hawkins, Janice and Wilson Pryer and Ida Dunn; five nephews and nine nieces; aunts and uncles, Gladys Hearns, August and Barbara Handy and Charley and Pauline Handy; three godchildren, Barbara Gray, Larry Williams Jr. and Kennon Bosley; and godfather, Willie Mulmore Sr. He also leaves to mourn his passing Tonya Harmason and Keldrick Gray. Preceded in death by his mother, Willie Mae Handy; a brother, Lloyd Royal Jr.; a sister, Cathy Dee Royal; grandchildren, Deldrick, Mydrick and Armechia Lowery and Dariya La'Qui Tate; grandmother, Corinne Buggs; and godmother, Elnora Milligan. WILLIAMS, MARY LEE A resident of Baton Rouge, she died Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2001. She was 70 and a native of Loranger. Visiting at Feltus-Lazard Memorial Temple Church of God in Christ from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Religious services at Mount Vernon Baptist Church at 11 a.m. Monday, conducted by the Rev. Errol Domingue and the Rev. Samuel Brown. Survived by husband, Johnny Williams, Baton Rouge; a daughter, Gilda Renter, Baton Rouge; a stepdaughter, Mary James, Baton Rouge; seven sons, Lloyd Bell, Wilbert Bell, Jerry Renter and Robert Renter, all of Baton Rouge, Joseph Bell, Folsom, Alton Bell, Chicago, and Donald Roy Renter, Fort Benning, Ga.; two sisters, Margaret Washington, New Orleans, and Zadie Brown, Baton Rouge; three brothers, Theodore Baham, Folsom, Robert Baham, Hammond, and William Baham, Independence; 28 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond, in charge of arrangements.