St. Helena Parish Obituaries. St. Helena Parish, Louisiana Nov. 1999 - Mar. 2000 Submitted to the USGenWeb Archives by Don Johnson, Apr. 2000 ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://usgwarchives.net/la/lafiles.htm ************************************************ ANDERSON, NANNIE EASLEY A resident of Ethel, she died at 4:15 a.m. Monday, Dec. 6, 1999, at her home. She was 83 and a native of St. Helena Parish. Visiting at Charlet Funeral Home Inc., Zachary, 10 a.m. until religious services at 1 p.m. Tuesday, conducted by Dr. James W. Jones. Interment in Redwood Cemetery, Slaughter. She is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Debbie and Wayne Meadows of Greensburg; a son and daughter-in-law, Ronald R. and Vivian N. Anderson of Ethel; two sisters, Odette Sitman of Greensburg and Dorothy Monk of Kentwood; six grandchildren, Erin A. Sirmon, Ronald R. Anderson Jr., Blake Meadows, Lee Ann Bass, and Jay and Julie Meadows; and two great-grandchildren, Russell Bass and William Sirmon IV. She was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Anderson; two brothers, Worth and D.T. Easley; and a sister, Rema Biondo. Pallbearers will be Blake Meadows, Ron Anderson, Jay Meadows, Wil Sirmon, Richard Sitman and David Easley. She was a member of Ethel Methodist Church. Memorial donations may be made to Ethel Methodist Church. BANKSTON, THOMAS J. After a lengthy illness, Thomas J. Bankston, affectionately known as "T" by his great-great-nieces and nephews, died at Lakeview Manor Nursing Home in New Roads, on Tuesday, Dec. 21, 1999. Visitation was at Rabenhorst Funeral Home, 825 Government St., from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday. Visiting at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until religious services at 1 p.m. Thursday. He was born in Grangeville on June 24, 1910, and was raised in East Baton Rouge Parish. A veteran of World War II, he served in the South Pacific for four years, receiving a Bronze Star. He was retired from State Probation and Parole with 30 years of service. He was well known for his athletic abilities at Istrouma High School, LSU and several professional teams. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Dorothy Watkins Bankston; a special niece, Linda D. Cline; and numerous other nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents, Claude B. Bankston and Mary Callender Bankston; three sisters, Maggie B. Dufour, Pearl B. Simms and Maude Alice B. Barrett; four brothers, Ray P. Bankston, Clarence "Snowball" Bankston, Fred T. Bankston and R.M. "Tater" Bankston. Pallbearers will be Tommy Dufour, Tommy Cline, Greg Cline, Blance Bankston, Steve Devine and David Bankston. Honorary pallbearers are Jack Diamond, John Langlois, Danny Heltz, Tim Aguillard, Fred Bankston Jr. and members of the 1937-38 Istrouma High football team and cheerleaders. BRYANT, SUSIE BRUMFIELD "HELP" A resident of Baton Rouge, she died at 9:40 a.m. Monday, Jan. 3, 2000, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. She was 83 and a native of Greensburg. Visiting at St. Mary Baptist Church, Greensburg, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday, conducted by the Rev. Richie Gross. Interment in Rocky Hill Cemetery, Greensburg. Survived by a daughter, Bernice; a son, Richard Carter; a brother, Lorenza Brumfield; nine grand-children; 11 great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; and numerous other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Irand Brumfield; two sisters; five brothers; and a great-granddaughter. Winnfield Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. BURTON, JOSEPHINE S. A resident and native of Greensburg, she departed this life Monday, Jan. 10, 2000, at LSU Lallie Kemp Medical Center, Independence. She was 66. Visiting at MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home Inc., La. 1042, Greensburg, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday. Religious services at Darlington Church of God in Christ, Darlington, at 1 p.m. Saturday, conducted by Elder E.J. Higginbotham. Interment in church cemetery. CARTER, REBECCA MATTHEWS A longtime resident of Greensburg, she died at 2:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 27, 1999, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge. She was 88 and a native of Darlington. Visiting at First Baptist Church, Greensburg, 9 a.m. until religious services at 2 p.m. Wednesday, conducted by the Rev. William E. Knight Jr. Interment in Greensburg Cemetery. Survived by two daughters and sons-in-law, Prentiss Henson Jr. and Sadie Williams Carter and William Frederick and Glancie Palmer Carter, all of Greensburg; a sister, Doris Matthews McLean, Baton Rouge; 10 grandchildren, Karlette Carter Bridges, Rhenette Carter Cooper, Malcom Kevin Carter, Kelly Koger Broussard, Lynn Koger, Frank Hugh Koger III, Hans Kiel Koger, William Matthews Carter, Amy Lynn Carter and Cindy Ann Carter; 11 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by husband, Prentiss Henson Carter Sr.; a daughter, Betty Carter Koger; parents, William Perkins and Blanche Freeman Matthews; a brother, Freeman Matthews; and eight sisters, Carlotta M. Lindsey, Thelma M. Knighton, Mary M. Yunkes, Mabel M. Denham, Sarah M. Hacket, Willie Louise Matthews, Aline Matthews and Blanche Matthews. Pallbearers will be Matt Carter, Freddie Carter, Kevin Carter, Vernon Bridges, Kiel Koger and Don Carter. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. CHANEY, RHEABURN "RAY" A resident of Greensburg, he died at 7 a.m. Friday, Jan. 21, 2000, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge. He was 92 and a native of East Feliciana Parish. Visitation at Center United Methodist Church, Greensburg, from noon Sunday until religious services at 2:30 p.m., conducted by the Rev. Larry Robertson. Interment in Center Cemetery. Survived by his wife, Opal Butler Chaney, Greensburg; two daughters, Cheryl Chaney Coates, Denham Springs, and Darlene Chaney Dunaway, Greensburg; a son, Eddie R. "Ed" Chaney, Clinton; six grandchildren, Eddie "Bo" Chaney, Clinton, Donna C. Morel, Walker, Pam C. Windham and Tammy Taylor, both of Baton Rouge, Ron Taylor, Sugar Land, Texas, and Darla Pittman, Greensburg; four great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and a brother, Russell Chaney, Clinton. Preceded in death by his mother, Ida Rodey Chaney; father, Davis Chaney; two brothers, Aubrey Chaney and Wallace Chaney; and a sister, Aileen Chaney Matthews. Pallbearers will be Eddie "Bo" Chaney, Patrick Chaney, Ryan Windham, Ron Taylor, Larry Coates and Monel Dunaway. He was a member of Center United Methodist Church for more than 61 years and was a lifetime member of Colemantown Hunting Club. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. CLAIBORNE, CLYDE A resident and native of Pine Grove, he departed this life Thursday, Dec. 30, 1999, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was 54. Visiting at MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home Inc., La. 1042, Greensburg, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday. Religious services at Gospel Temple Church of God in Christ, La. 16, Pine Grove, at 11 a.m. Saturday, conducted by Elder Peter Donald. Interment in Claiborne Cemetery, Pine Grove. COLEMAN, SR. FELIX A resident of Greensburg, he departed this life Friday, Jan. 14, 2000, at his home. He was 52. Visiting at MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home Inc., La. 1042, Greensburg, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday. Religious services at Black Creek AME Church, La. 10, Greensburg, at 11 a.m. Wednesday, conducted by the Rev. Amanda Lee. Interment in church cemetery. Survived by his devoted wife, Betty R. Coleman; a son, Felix Coleman Jr., Greensburg; two daughters, Shelia Overton, Kenner, and Deloris Alexander, Greensburg; four grandchildren; four sisters, Walter Ree Crier, Zerlie Coleman, Lillie B. Jackson and Mary Lou Coleman; two brothers, Tommy Davis and Sammy Coleman; and numerous other relatives and friends. COLLINS, ORA LEE A resident of Greensburg, she died at 7 a.m. Thursday, March 16, 2000, at St. Helena Parish Hospital, Greensburg. She was 80 and a native of Wilkinson County, Miss. Visiting at Darlington Methodist Church, Chipola, from 10 a.m. Sunday until religious services at 2 p.m. Interment in the church cemetery. Survived by a daughter, Shirley Floyd; a brother, Carter Nettles; a daughter-in-law, Carol Collins; 12 grandchildren, Joby Wall, Joy Floyd, Melanie McGuff, Samantha Lynn Floyd, Stephanie Pace, Janet Floyd, James Floyd, Melissa Gayle Collins, Jolie Floyd, Sammy Collins II, Jon Floyd and Tyler Floyd; and 11 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by her husband, Sammie Collins; a son, Lloyd Collins; parents; five sisters; and a brother. Seale Funeral Home, Denham Springs, in charge of arrangements. COURTNEY, TULLEY S. A resident of Chalmette, he died Friday, Dec. 31, 1999, at his home. He was 61 and a native of St. Helena Parish. Graveside services at Centre Cemetery, Greensburg, at 1 p.m. Tuesday, conducted by the Rev. Larry Stewart. Survived by a sister, Sybil Battaglia, Chalmette; and a brother, William J. Courtney, Jackson. McNeely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. COURTNEY, WOODROW WILSON "WOODY" A retired employee of South Central Bell, he died Friday, Dec. 31, 1999, at his residence in Louisville, Ky. He was born in Tangipahoa Parish and was raised in St. Helena Parish. He left the family farm during the Depression and went to work for the telephone company. He worked in many cities throughout the state and country. He is survived by his second wife, Helen Pierce Courtney of Louisville; a son, Williams "Bill" Courtney of Springfield; a daughter, Candice "Candy" Fitzgerald of Hampton, N.H.; five grandsons and a granddaughter; a sister, Alberta Courtney Webb of St. Helena Parish; and a brother, Otto Court-ney Sr. of St. Helena Parish. Pre-ceded in death by his first wife, Jackie Sheets; his parents, J.B. "Buck" Courtney and Amelia Borer Courtney; and two brothers, James Courtney and Emile Courtney. He was a member of Telephone Pioneers of America. Funeral services were held at Kilpatrick Funeral Home in Monroe DIER, MARY LEE CARTER Another angel has gone home. A longtime resident of Jackson and a native of St. Helena Parish, she died at 9:45 a.m. Friday, Jan. 7, 2000, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center. She was a retired nurse's assistant with more than 25 years of service. Arrangements pending at Charlet Funeral Home Inc., Clinton. Survived by three sons and daughters-in-law, Michael and Pamela Lusch Stevens, Clinton, John and Jaqueline Rish Martin and Ronald and Nora Cutrer Martin, all of Jackson; three daughters and a son-in-law, Debra S. Millan, Pecos, Texas, Sharon M. Wade, Wilson, and Gail D. and Jeff McCoy, Jackson; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Myrl C. and Horace Ensign, Amite, and Ruth C. and Clayton Morgan, Franklinton; a brother and a sister-in-law, Gerald and Sara Stewart Carter, Albany; grandchildren, Dwayne Berry, Lubbock, Texas, Deanna B. Tarver, St. Francisville, Sandra Millan, Matthew Millan and Valerie Millan, all of Pecos, Lacey Stevens, Oklahoma, Desiree Stevens, Alabama, James W. Wade and Rebecca Wade, both of Wilson, Holli Martin and Anthony Martin, both of Norwood, and Rachael McCoy, Jackson; great-grandchildren, Brian A. Tarver, St. Francisville, Brandon L. Berry and Tristan L. Vega, both of Pecos, Kayla Freeman, Alabama; and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by a daughter, Sandra Sue Stevens; and parents, Hiram Lavern and Gertrude Lillie Belle Rushing Carter. Pallbearers will be Ronald Martin, Michael Stevens, James W. Wade, Matthew Millan, Chris Hughes, Anthony Martin, Horace Ensign and Gerald Carter. Honorary pallbearers are Dave Tygress, Jeff McCoy, Bobby Church, Delta Wayne Guillory, Alvin Feierabend, Jack Shively and Dwayne Berry. EVANS, CLARA GEORGE (MRS. W.W. "WOODY" EVANS) A homemaker and a resident of Baton Rouge, she died at 3:30 p.m. Friday, March 3, 2000, at Baton Rouge General Medical Center. She was 83 and a native of Montpelier. Visiting at Rabenhorst Funeral Home East, 11000 Florida Blvd., from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday and after 10 a.m. Monday. Religious services in the funeral home chapel at 11 a.m. Monday, conducted by the Rev. Stephen Fleming. Interment in Roselawn Memorial Park. Survived by a son and daughter-in-law, George Larry and Mary Alice Evans, Baton Rouge; a sister, Frances George Oliver, Baton Rouge; a brother, Lawrence V. George, Baton Rouge; two grandchildren, Mark Larry Evans, Baton Rouge, and Dawn Joy Evans Newby, Oklahoma City; a great-grandchild, Allison Evans Bonnette, Denham Springs; and a brother-in-law, Joseph W. Howes, Covington. Preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Woodrow W. "Woody" Evans; a daughter, Patricia Joy Evans; parents, Ira N. George and Frances Elizabeth Dearing George; a sister, Anne George Howes; and three brothers, Lewis George, Edison George and Dr. Ira Dearing George. She was a member of St. Luke's United Methodist Church of Baton Rouge and Order of the Eastern Star Istrouma Chapter 162. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Luke's United Methodist Church of Baton Rouge, 3791 Aletha Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70814, or to a charity of choice. FORREST, CHARLES HENRY "CHARLIE" A resident of Pumpkin Center, he died Monday, Dec. 6, 1999, at his home. He was 77 and a native of Hammond. Visitation at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, with a Masonic service at 7 p.m. Visiting at Jerusalem Baptist Church from 9 a.m. until religious services at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, conducted by the Rev. Don Taylor. Interment in church cemetery. He will be sadly missed by his wife of 57 years, Emma Starkey Forrest, Pumpkin Center; two daughters and sons-in-law, Charlotte Forrest Faller and William Faller, Ponchatoula, and Cindy Forrest Neal and Gayle Neal, Pumpkin Center; three granddaughters and spouses, Lysi Faller Vaughn and Kevin Vaughn, Missi Neal Sturdivant and Shane Sturdivant and Natasha Faller Caldwell and Patrick Caldwell; three grandsons, Will Faller, Ricky Neal and Brad Neal; two great-grandchildren, Sidni Sturdivant and Will Vaughn; and a brother, Theodore Forrest, Pumpkin Center. Preceded in death by a sister, Clara Forrest Gill; and parents, Elmore and Margaret Hutchinson Forrest. He was a lifelong member of Jerusalem Baptist Church and past master of Pine Grove Masonic Lodge No. 288, Ponchatoula. GORDON, DOMINIQUE CHAMPAGNE A third-grade student at St. Helena Central Elementary School, she departed this life Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2000, at Tulane University Hospital, New Orleans. She was 10 and a resident of Greensburg. Visiting at New Star Church Ministry, La. 1042, Greensburg, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday. Religious services at Turner Chapel AME Church, La. 1042, Greensburg, the Rev. Stan-ley J. Carter, pastor, at 1 p.m. Tuesday, conducted by the Rev. Agrippa Cage. Interment in Turner Chapel Church Cemetery. Survived by her mother, Tonya Renee Gordon; and a brother, Leo Patrick Gordon, both of Baton Rouge; grandmother, Clara R. Gordon; and great-grandmother, Bernice Gordon, both of Greens-burg; uncles, including Elmer Gordon Jr., Atlanta; great-uncles, aunts, great-aunts and numerous other relatives and friends. Pre-ceded in death by her grandfather, Elmer Gordon Sr. MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home Inc., Denham Springs, in charge of arrangements. GORDON, LAMAR A resident and native of Greensburg, he departed this life Wednesday, Dec. 15, 1999, at St. Helena Parish Hospital. He was 87. Visiting at MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home Inc., La. 1042, Greensburg, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday. Religious services at Turner Chapel AME Church, off La. 1042, Greensburg, at 2 p.m. Saturday, conducted by the Rev. Stanley J. Carter. Interment in the church cemetery. GREEN, ELLA C. A resident and native of Greensburg, she departed this life Saturday, Dec. 11, 1999, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was 108. Wake services at Jackson Chapel IME Church, La. 449, Greensburg, at 7 p.m. Friday. Religious services at the church at noon Saturday, conducted by the Rev. Elijah Harvey Jr. Interment in the church cemetery. Survived by two daughters, Lena Mae Bruno, New Orleans, and Bertha G. Coleman, Amite; a son, Roosevelt Green Sr., Baton Rouge; 24 grandchildren; 77 great-grand-children; 37 great-great-grand-children; a great-great-great-grandchild; and numerous other relatives and friends. MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home Inc., Denham Springs, in charge of arrangements. GRICE, CHARLES E. Retired from the Department of Transportation and Development after 32 years of service and a resident of Kentwood, he died at 3:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 14, 2000, in Woodville, Miss. He was 63 and a native of St. Helena Parish. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Wednesday and after 8 a.m. Thursday. Religious services at the funeral home at 11 a.m. Thursday, conducted by the Rev. Chris Watkins. Interment in Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood. Survived by his wife, Dyann Martin Grice, Kentwood; three daughters and a son-in-law, Lisa Hyde, Sherri Lynn Grice and Sara and Seth Brabham, all of Kentwood; a son and daughter-in-law, Steven and Deb Grice, Kentwood; and four grandchildren, Ramona Hyde, Charles Hyde, Michael Hyde and wife Robyn and Alison Claire Brabham. Preceded in death by his parents, Oliver Lee and Mary Adams Grice; and a brother, Ralph Grice. GRIFFIN, JOHN E. A resident of Greensburg, he departed this life at 10:05 a.m. Monday, March 20, 2000, at St. Helena Parish Hospital, Greensburg. He was 90 and a native of Baldwin County, Ala. Visiting at Lazard Temple Church of God in Christ, Greensburg, Elder Milton Bryant, pastor, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday. Religious services at the church at 1 p.m. Saturday, Elder J.W. Stewart officiating. Interment in Johnson Cemetery, Chipola. MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home Inc., Denham Springs, in charge of arrangements. HITCHEN, JR. EDWARD A resident of Greensburg, he departed this life Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2000, in Clinton. He was 52. Visiting at MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home Inc., La. 1042, Greensburg, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Religious services at Matthew Chapel AME Church, off La. 10, Greensburg, at 1 p.m. Monday, conducted by the Rev. Marvin Schaffer Sr. Interment in Johnson Cemetery, Chipola. HITCHEN, JEFF A resident of Greensburg, he departed this life on Thursday, Feb. 17, 2000, at North Oaks Rehabilitation Hospital, Hammond. He was 97. Visiting at MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home Inc., La. 1042, Greensburg, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Religious services at Matthew Chapel AME Church, off La. 10, Greensburg, at 1 p.m. Monday, conducted by the Rev. Marvin Schaffer Sr. Interment in Johnson Cemetery, Chipola. Survived by a daughter-in-law, Helen Hitchen, Greensburg; two granddaughters, Shelia Singleton and Kathleen Joseph, both of Amite; five grandsons, Floyd, Claudie and Donald Hitchen, all of Greensburg, Bernard Hitchen, Baton Rouge, and minister Felton Franklin, Clinton; and other relatives and friends. JACKSON, RUTH QUILLEN A resident of Pine Grove, she departed this life Friday, March 17, 2000, at St. Helena Parish Hospital, Greensburg. She was 95 and a native of Grangeville. Visiting at MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home Inc., 7803 Florida Blvd., Denham Springs, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Friday. Visiting at Gospel Temple Church of God in Christ, La. 16, Pine Grove, from 10 a.m. until religious services at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, conducted by Elder Peter Donald. Interment in the church cemetery. Survived by four daughters and a son-in-law, Deloris and Issac King, Denham Springs, Louise James and Helen Graham, Pine Grove, and Elizabeth Jackson, Oakland, Calif.; a son, Wilford Jackson, Pine Grove; a sister, Pearl White, Cleveland; 45 grandchildren; 75 great-grand-children; 34 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband; mother; father; and 14 children. JAMES, JENNIE L. A retired employee of Louisiana War Veterans Home, Jackson, she died Sunday, Dec. 5, 1999. She was 81, a resident of Jackson and a native of Greensburg. Visiting at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, Jackson, 1:30 p.m. until religious services at 2 p.m. Wednesday, conducted by the Rev. Charles R. Landry. Interment in Resurrection Cemetery, Madison, Wis., on Friday. Survived by a sister, Lottie Weaver, Jackson; and a brother, Dave Jones, Magnolia, Miss. Preceded in death by her husband, Seaborn James; a daughter, Susan James Hopgood; and two brothers, Louis and Clifford Taplin. She was a former employee of Gimble's Department Store, Madison. Rabenhorst Funeral Home, 825 Government St., in charge of arrangements. KILCREASE, ARCHIE E. Died at 1 a.m. Monday, March 13, 2000, at Magnolia Regional Health Center, Corinth, Miss. He was 81. He was a veteran of World War II. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 10 a.m. until religious services at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, conducted by the Rev. Willie V. Cothern. Interment in Greensburg Cemetery, Greensburg. Survived by his wife, Frances Arnold Kilcrease, Corinth; two sons and daughters-in-law, Eddy and Frances Arnold, Corinth, and Frank and Nita Lea, Amite; five daughters and four sons-in-law, Nancy K. and Douglas Williamson, Hammond, Jeanette and Jerry Weeks and Claudette and Jimmy Allen, all of Corinth, Emily Kilcrease, Glynn, and Ann and Arlen Fleming, Pride; four sisters and three brothers-in-law, Velma K. Little and Vera K. and Ed Roach, all of Glen, Miss., Helen K. and Cecil Lee, Estes Park, Colo., and Ollie K. and Don Jones, Olive Branch, Miss.; two grandchildren, Marc Williamson and wife Christie T., Hammond, and Amy W. Wilder and husband Brad, Florence, Ky.; a great-grandson, Alan Williamson; 21 stepgrandchildren; 32 stepgreat-grandchildren; three sisters-in-law, Lydia May Kilcrease, North Carolina, Emily Kilcrease, Louisiana, and Virginia Hendrix, Glen; and a brother-in-law, Willard Wiginton, Corinth. Preceded in death by his wife, Edna F. Kilcrease; father, Markie Kilcrease; mother, Nancy McAnally Kilcrease; three sons, Archie E. Kilcrease Jr., Teddy G. Arnold and Alton Lea; four brothers, Willie Kilcrease, Earl Kilcrease, Clayton Kilcrease and Howard Kilcrease; three sisters, Beulah K. Harville, Nola K. Newcomb and Evelyn K. Haney; five brothers-in-law, Arch Little, Tommy Harville, C. Newcomb, Buddy Haney and Joe Hendrix; two sisters-in-law, Sula Kilcrease and Bell Kilcrease; and three stepgrandchildren. He was a member of Darlington Baptist Church, Darlington, and a Mason. He loved his family and friends and enjoyed meeting people and making new friends. KINCHEN, HARRY EDWARD "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16). He went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at 7:35 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 3, 2000, at his residence in Denham Springs. He was 73 and a native of Pine Grove. Visiting at Seale Funeral Home, Denham Springs, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. until religious services in the chapel at 2 p.m. Saturday, conducted by the Rev. Keith Bernard. Interment in Magnolia Methodist Church Cemetery. Survived by wife of 33 years, Corinne Kinchen; four daughters and two sons-in-law, Kathy and Donney Gerald, Ruby Gerald, Judy Harris and Theresa and Gene Buck; sons, Ivan "Bubba" Kinchen and Wilton Harris Jr. and daughters-in-law; 14 grandchildren, 12 great-grand-children; and a sister and brother-in-law, Hilde and Norman Devall. Preceded in death by parents, Henry Ivan and Addy Corneila Jenkins Kinchen; and a sister and brother-in-law, Nelda and James Alton Devall. Pallbearers will be Paul Johnson, J.J. Clark, Jarred Cowart, Richard LeJeune, Curtis Harris, Randy Brown, J.C. Caldwell and Johnathon LeJeune. He was a member of Magnolia Christian Assembly. KING, HUGH Our dearly loved husband, father and friend has been called home to rejoice with the angels. He died at 4:30 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 13, 2000, at Lane Memorial Hospital, Zachary. He was a retired Allied Signal employee and a resident of Baton Rouge. He was born Oct. 3, 1922, in Pine Grove. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II. Visiting at Greenoaks Funeral Home, 9595 Florida Blvd., from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday. Visiting at the funeral home from 8 a.m. until religious services in the chapel at 10 a.m. Tuesday, conducted by the Rev. Don Disotell. Interment in Rest-haven Gardens of Memory. Survived by his wife, Velma King, Baton Rouge; a daughter and son-in-law, Cindy and Randy Moore, Central; two sons and daughters-in-law, Wayne and Chezelle King, Ponchatoula, and Danny and Thelma King, Baker; a sister, Beth Malone, Baton Rouge; a brother, Wallace King, Zachary; nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by his parents, James Alonzo King and Mary Hodges King; two brothers, Stanley and Shyrl King; and a sister, Rita Chandler. LAWSON, NAN CARTER A lifelong resident of Greensburg, she died at 9:35 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 25, 1999, at St. Helena Parish Hospital in Greensburg. She was 65. Visitation at First Baptist Church, Greensburg, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday and after 9 a.m. Tuesday. Religious services at the church at 11 a.m. Tuesday, conducted by the Rev. William E. Knight Jr. Interment in Greensburg Cemetery, Greensburg. Survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Stanan Lawson and Henry Capdeboscq Jr., Husser; a son and daughter-in-law, Courtland Collins and Ashley Smart Lawson, Baton Rouge; a brother and sister-in-law, Don D. and Margaret Carter, Greensburg; three grandchildren, Courtland Collins Lawson Jr., Griffon Ainsley Lawson and Carter Lawson Capdeboscq; and two nephews, Tommy Carter and Ken Carter, both of Greensburg. Preceded in death by her husband, Stanley B. "Red" Lawson; and parents, Collins and Lillian McDonald Carter. She was a member of First Baptist Church, Greensburg, Greensburg Cemetery Association and Halimah Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution. Pallbearers will be Courtland Collins Lawson, Henry Capdeboscq Jr., Tommy Mason Carter, Kenneth Lee Carter, Hunter Cole Carter, William Freddie Carter and David Carlton Peroyea. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. LEE, ALTON REUBEN A resident of Amite, he died at 8:20 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2000, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge. He was 73 and a native of Darlington. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II and the Korean conflict. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday. Visiting at First United Methodist Church, Amite, from 9 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Saturday, conducted by the Rev. Ken Bowman and the Rev. John Lee. Interment in Arcola-Roseland Cemetery, Arcola. Survived by his wife, Elizabeth "Betty" Pevey Lee, Amite; a son and daughter-in-law, Thomas Pevey Sr. and Janet Tycer Lee, Amite; three grandchildren, Thomas Pevey "T.J." Lee Jr., Reuben Tycer "Ty" Lee and Shirley Elizabeth Lee, all of Amite; a sister, Yvonne Lee Burns, Baton Rouge; a brother and sister-in-law, Dr. Charles E. and Myra Johns Lee, Hammond; a nephew, Robert Ed Burns, Baton Rouge; a sister-in-law, Jean Pevey, Amite; two great-nieces and spouse, Lee Bullard and Chris Haslitt, Gretna, and Stephanie Bullard, New York; a great-great-nephew, Mathew Haslitt; and a great-great-niece, Noelle Haslitt. Preceded in death by his parents, Edwin W. and Helen Powell Lee; and a nephew, Hugh Bullard. Pallbearers will be Gerald Giardina, Robert Ed Burns, Dr. Glen Hutchinson, Sam Haywood, Bruce Neal, Johnny King, Billy Finch, Andy Miller and Jack Granger. Honorary pallbearers will be Eugene Hornsby, Tony Ardillo, Billy Travis, Roy Stewart Jr., Herman Newell, Angelo J. Giardina, Dr. John Manning, Dr. Nathan Forrest and Freddie Jackson. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to First United Methodist Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 596, Amite, LA 70422. MCLIN, OSCAR EDWARD A retired employee with Exxon Co. USA and a resident of Baton Rouge, he died Thursday, Dec. 9, 1999, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. He was 83 and a native of Pine Grove. He was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. Visiting at Welsh Fuenral Home, 1 p.m. Saturday until religious services at 3 p.m., conducted by the Rev. Marvin Collins and the Rev. T.W. Terral. Interment in Greenoaks Memorial Park. His wife, Jayne Roshto McLin, also died Thursday, Dec. 9, 1999. He is survived by two daughters and sons-in-law, Linda Gayle and James W. Thompson, Griffen, Ga., and Jannette and Cortez Hutchinson Jr., Yazoo City, Miss.; a son and daughter-in-law, Charles Edward Sr. and Donna McLin, Ponchatoula; a sister, Nettie Pevey, Pine Grove; two brothers, Nelson McLin, Zachary, and Clarence McLin, Brandon, Fla.; seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by first wife, Hazel McLin; three brothers, Herman, Hiram and Martin McLin; and four sisters, Gladys Fordham, Hazel Jones, Hattie Purvis and Mercia Starns. He was a member of Park Forest Baptist Church. MEGISON, MILDRED EASLEY A resident of Greensburg, she died at 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2000, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was 73 and a native of St. Helena Parish. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and after 9 a.m. Saturday. Religious services at the funeral home at 2 p.m. Saturday, conducted by the Rev. Butch Knight. Interment in Greensburg Cemetery, Greensburg. Survived by four sisters, Estelle Easley Bridges, Greensburg, Rucie Easley Lea, Melva Easley Welch and Mary Nell Easley Kliesch, all of Kentwood; and two brothers, Huey Easley and Bobby W. Easley, both of Kentwood. Preceded in death by her husband, John Thomas Megison; parents, Oscar Webb Easley and Lyda Lee Easley; and a sister, Christine Easley. MORGAN, GLYN A native and lifelong resident of Pine Grove, he died at 6:45 p.m. Monday, Jan. 24, 2000, at Ollie Steele Burden Manor, Baton Rouge. He was 91. Visitation at Pine Grove United Methodist Church from 1 p.m. Saturday until religious services at 2 p.m., conducted by the Rev. Eddie Morgan. Interment in Pine Grove Cemetery. Survived by two daughters, Margaret Ann Thompson, Broken Arrow, Okla., and Glynda Sue Knighten, Poway, Calif.; two grandsons, Robert Glyn Thompson, Broken Arrow, and David Thompson, Norman, Okla.; and two granddaughters, Laura Knighten, Los Angeles, and Katherine Knighten, Santa Barbara, Calif. Preceded in death by his wife, Inez Hodges Morgan. Pallbearers will be Tommy Glyn Dykes, Richard Wayne Dykes, Lynn Young, Jimmy Waller, Robert Thompson and David Thompson. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Shriner Hospital or a charity of choice. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. MORGAN, JR. SAM FRANKLIN A resident and native of Montpelier, he died Sunday, March 5, 2000, at his home. He was 87. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday. Visiting at Montpelier Methodist Church, Montpelier, from 9 a.m. until religious services at 10 a.m. Wednesday, conducted by the Rev. Eddie Morgan. Interment in Montpelier Cemetery. Survived by a son, John F. Morgan, Montpelier; two grandsons, Joe Morgan and Lee Morgan; a sister, Mildred Vernon, Montpelier; and special friend, Delores Bowen, Montpelier. Preceded in death by his wife, Lillie Roberts Morgan; a grandson, Seth F. Morgan; and a brother, Thomas E. "Bobbie" Morgan. NEEDHAM, VIRGIE WILLIAMS A native of St. Helena Parish, she died at 1:25 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2000, at her residence near Kentwood. She was 92. Visitation was at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday. Visitation at the funeral home from 8 a.m. until religious services at 10 a.m. Friday, con-ducted by the Rev. Bill Galloway, the Rev. Blake Shipp and the Rev. Chris Watkins. Interment in New Zion Cemetery, Kentwood. Survived by two daughters and sons-in-law, Katie Needham and James B. Blades and Georgia Needham and Shorty Carter, all of Kentwood; a brother, Cade Williams, Kentwood; a sister, Opal William Travis, Kentwood; three grandchildren and spouses, James Milton and Beverly Blades, Kentwood, Cade Ronald and Lora Blades, Greensburg, and Brandon Blake Carter, Baton Rouge; three great-grandchildren, Jamie Glenn Blades, Kevin Scott McDaniel Sr. and Marissa Blades Spitzer; two great-great-grandchildren, Kevin Scott McDaniel Jr. and Kalyn Shae McDaniel; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Preceded in death by her husband, George M. Needham; and four brothers, Ed, J.D., Ray and Lea Allen Williams. She was a member of New Zion Baptist Church. PORTER, ODESSA BERNICE "SISTER" A resident and native of Greensburg, she died Thursday, Jan. 27, 2000, at Lane Memorial Hospital, Zachary. She was 85. Visiting at Richardson Funeral Home, Clinton, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday. Visiting at Black Creek AME Church, the Rev. Amanda Lee, pastor, from noon until religious services at 1 p.m. Wednesday, conducted by Bishop James Feltus. Interment in church cemetery. Survived by two sons, Ruben D. Porter, Downers Grove, Ill., and Lloyd S. Porter, Joliet, Ill.; six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins, including a special cousin, Leontene Dilworth, New Orleans; other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by her parents, a son, two brothers and a sister. She was a member of First Church of God in Christ, Elder William Walker, pastor. SORRELL, TONIE GORDON The daughter of Willie and Lela Gordon, she was born in Independence on Nov. 29, 1956. She departed this life on Dec. 29, 1999. Visiting at Turner's Chapel AME Church, off La. 1042, Greensburg, from 10 a.m. Saturday until religious services at 1 p.m., conducted by the Rev. Stanley J. Carter. Interment in the church cemetery. Survived by her mother, Lela Gordon, Greensburg; her husband, Allen; two sons, Romaro and Brandon; a daughter, Mallory, all of Los Angeles; four brothers, Exavier, James, Thomas and Earnest; eight sisters, Veronica, Dewilda, Ida, Beverly, Janet, Elaine, Gladys and Vanessa; a grandson, Romaro Jr.; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends who loved her and will miss her very much. MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home Inc., Denham Springs, in charge of arrangements. STRICKLAND, CLAUDIA GRACE H. A resident of Chipola, she was received by the Lord at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 25, 1999, at St. Helena Parish Hospital, Greensburg. She was 84 and a native of St. Helena Parish. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday. Visitation at Clear Creek United Methodist Church, Chipola, from 9:30 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Tuesday, conducted by the Rev. Penn Morgan and the Rev. Larry Robertson. Interment in Wales Cemetery, Chipola. Survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Cleminza and Donald Devall, Denham Springs; a son and daughter-in-law, Clovis and Dolores Strickland, Greenwell Springs; a brother, Lea Fulton Hurst, Felixville; two sisters, Ruby Roberts, Felixville, and Cornelia Bond, Montpelier; seven grandchildren, Monty Devall, Philip Devall, Rhonda Houston, Ree Ann Jones, Elizabeth Lowrey, Larry Strickland and Dean Strickland; and 14 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by her husband, Clayton C. Strickland; a son, Robert "Bobby" Strickland; parents, Roan Lea and Clara Talbert Hurst; two sisters, Bessie Hogan Kennedy and Lorena DeLee; a brother, Bythel Hurst; and three infant brothers. Pallbearers will be Monty Devall, Robert Devall, Dean Strickland, Craig Houston, Matthew Houston and Richard Jones. She was a member of Greensburg chapter No. 158 of Order of the Eastern Star, St. Helena Parish Historical Society and St. Helena Parish Bicentennial Society. Memorial donations may be made to Clear Creek United Methodist Church Building Fund, Methodist Children's Home in New Orleans or Ruston, or the Wales Cemetery Fund. TATE, ELAINE STORY A retired East Louisiana State Hospital employee and a resident of Zachary, she died at 2:49 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 16, 2000, at Lane Memorial Hospital. She was 71 and a native of St. Helena Parish. Visiting at Charlet Funeral Home Inc., Zachary, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday and after 8:30 a.m. Tuesday. Religious services at the funeral home at 10 a.m. Tuesday. Interment in Azalea Rest Cemetery, Zachary. Survived by her husband, Alton L. Tate Sr., Zachary; two daughters, Sandra T. Bates, Jayess, Miss., and Anita T. LeBlanc, Zachary; a son, Alton L. "A.J." Tate Jr., Walker; and four grandchildren, Jamie and Dana Bates and Jennifer and Kerry LeBlanc. Preceded in death by her parents, Norman S. and Maggie Schenk Story; and a brother, Norman Allen "Buddy" Story. She attended First Baptist Church in Zachary. THOMAS, ALEXZINE "LAKIE" Employed by Superb Cleaners and a resident of Baton Rouge, she died Saturday, Dec. 18, 1999, at her home. She was 66 and a native of Greensburg. Visiting at Winnfield Funeral Home, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday. Religious services at the funeral home at 10 a.m. Thursday, conducted by pastor Leroy Thompson. Religious services at St. Helena Baptist Church, Greensburg, at 12:30 p.m. Thursday. Interment in St. Helena Church Cemetery. Survived by two daughters, Brenda Faye Mims of Baton Rouge and Linda K. Chriss of Atlanta; a son, Alonzo Knox and wife Janice; a stepson, Eddie Charles Edwards of Baton Rouge; two brothers, Willie Knox Sr. and Richard Henry Knox of Baton Rouge; five grandchildren, Charlene K. Turner, Reginald S. Mims, Tanganika Chriss Snow and Brian Mims, all of Baton Rouge, and Chiquita Chriss of New Orleans. Preceded in death by parents, Alex and Mary Knox; husband, Charles Thomas; two sisters, Helen K. Kelly and Sadie Hickerson; and a brother, Alex Knox Jr. TIDWELL, HUBERT C. A resident of Greensburg, he died at 11:40 p.m. Monday, Dec. 27, 1999, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge. He was 75 and a native of Booneville, Miss. Visiting at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday and after 8 a.m. Thursday. Religious services at the funeral home at 1 p.m. Thursday, conducted by the Rev. Mike Woodard. Interment in Greensburg Cemetery, Greensburg. Survived by a daughter, Billie Tidwell, Greensburg; two sons and a daughter-in-law, Mitch and Donna Tidwell and Mike Tidwell, all of Greensburg; two sisters, Clynese Phillips, Greensburg, and Bernice Cade, Livingston; four brothers, Cleve Tidwell, Bill Tidwell, Jimmy Tidwell and Johnnie Tidwell, all of Greensburg; 10 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. VENABLE, RUTH COVINGTON A resident of Greensburg, she died Monday, Dec. 20, 1999, at St. Helena Parish Hospital in Greensburg. She was 87 and a native of Chipola. Visitation at Darlington United Methodist Church, Chipola, 9 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Wednesday, conducted by the Rev. Larry Robertson. Interment in Greensburg Cemetery, Greensburg. Survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by husband, Roger M. Venable; parents, George P. Covington Sr. and Leda Rebecca Strickland Covington; five sisters, Rita Bales, Velma Covington, Audrey Blades, Lanell Heap and Arminta Courtney; and three brothers, Carl Covington, Thurston Covington and G.P. "Red" Covington. She was a member of St. Helena Historical Society, United Daughters of the Confederacy and Darlington United Methodist Church. She was a host for multiple sclerosis Bike-a-Thon. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements WALES, HERMAN P. A man who enjoyed life and people has gone to join the Lord. He will be remembered as the storekeeper at Chipola Grocery. A resident of Greensburg, he died at 11:32 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2000, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was 90 and a native of Tinus. Visitation at Darlington Methodist Church, Chipola, from 9 a.m. Friday until religious services at noon, conducted by the Rev. Larry Robertson. Interment in Wales Cemetery, Greensburg. Survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Willie David and Pam Wales, Clinton; and a sister and brother-in-law, Lorena W. and Bill Tillett, Indianapolis. Preceded in death by five brothers, Willie Wales, Bob Wales, Albert Wales, Kemp Wales and Woodrow Wales; and three sisters, Sadie Wales, Ollie W. Bentz and Myrtis W. George. Pallbearers will be Marion Wales, Bobby Wales, Cecil Shipley, Charles Krutz, Phillip Devall and George Eddis Lee. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Wales Cemetery Fund, c/o Nancy Wales, Bank of Greensburg, P.O. Box 10, Greensburg, LA 70441. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. WATSON, MARION A former hostess with Don's Seafood and Steak House with 20 years of service, she died at 6:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 1, 2000, at Care Center, Baton Rouge. She was 88, born Nov. 20, 1911. Visiting at Hollabaugh Spindle Funeral Home, 1553 Wooddale Blvd., from 8 a.m. until religious services at 10 a.m. Tuesday, conducted by the Rev. Jerry Martin. Interment in Killian's Chapel Cemetery, La. 16 between Amite and Montpelier. Survived by two sisters-in-law, Leona Watson, Baton Rouge, and Althea Watson, New Orleans; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by four brothers, Charles Watson, Thomas Watson, Bernard Watson and Alfred Watson; and her parents, Charles and Marion Watson.