Obituaries from THE HAMMOND DAILY STAR, Apr. 2001; Hammond, Tangipahoa Parish, LA. Submitted to the USGenWeb Archives by Don Johnson, Apr, 2001 ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://usgwarchives.net/la/lafiles.htm ************************************************ April 01, 2001 * Jack Milton Bailey * James Bass Jr. * Isaac Bennett Jr * Alexander James Kerek Jr. JACK MILTON BAILEY PONCHATOULA - Jack Milton Bailey, 70, died Friday, March 30, 2001, at his home. He was a native of San Angelo, Texas, and a retired member of IBEW Local 130. He was an active member of the Democratic Party at local, state and national levels. His survivors include his former wife, Catherine Prindall Bailey Connor; four daughters, Linda Achord of Baptist, Alice Bailey and Brenda Traylor of Ponchatoula, and Catherine Witte of Husser; three sons, John of Anchorage, Alaska, Darrell of Springfield and David of Dickson, Tenn.; two sisters, Marjorie Kirkman, Waverly, Tenn., and Sheila Russell of Metairie; three brothers, John Thomas of Aransas Pass, Texas, Patrick of Selma, Ala., and Michael of Pikeville, Tenn.; 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His parents, John P. Bailey and Audys Bailey Holland, preceded him in death as did a brother, Walter; a sister, Millicent; and a grandson. Following cremation, a memorial service will be held at his home Monday from 5 until 6:30 p.m. JAMES BASS JR. NEW ROADS - James "Jim" Bass Jr., 48, died Friday, March 30, 2001, at Stabler Memorial Hospital in Greenville, Ala. He was a native of Ponchatoula and a longtime resident of New Roads. His survivors include his mother, Virginia M. Bass, New Roads; stepdaughter Courtney Vernon of Morgan City; two sons, James "Skeet" of Morgan City and James Patrick of New Orleans; 10 sisters, Francis Moody, Janet Maumus, Barbara Van Vrancken, Belinda Schoeffler, Mary Burleigh, Veronica Lemoine, Judith Niland, Desiree Peebles, Sabrina Lonadier and Stacy Ogier; and four brothers, Jon, Thomas, Kip and Tyrone. His father, James Enoch Bass Sr., preceded him in death. Visitation will be tonight from 6 until 10 at Niland's Funeral Home in New Roads, and Monday from 8 until the 10 a.m. service at St. Mary's Catholic Church in New Roads. The Rev. Michael Schatzle will conduct the service. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. ISAAC BENNETT JR. MARRERO - Isaac Bennett Jr., 55, died Thursday, March 29, 2001. He was a native of New Orleans, a 23 1/2-year employee of Jefferson Parish and a resident of Marrero for the past 30 years. Survivors include his wife of 34 years, the Rev. Adele Bennett; a daughter, Danielle Otero; a son, Marcus; sisters Ruby Martinez of Springfield, Joyce M. Forrest of Hammond, Ivy Bennett of Hammond, Lettie Bowman of Ponchatoula, Mary L. Hill of Springfield; brothers Charles of Springfield, Larry of Hammond and Vincent of Amite; and three grandchildren. Two siblings, Catherine Irene and Leslie Eugene, preceded him in death, as did his father, Isaac Bennett Sr., and mother, Annie Mary Blount Bennett. Visitation will be Monday from 9 a.m. until the funeral at noon at Mothe Funeral Home in Harvey. Burial will follow in Restlawn Cemetery in Avondale. ALEXANDER JAMES KEREK JR. ALBANY - Alexander James Kerek Jr., 82, died Tuesday, March 27, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. A native of Albany, Kerek was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and a retired tool and die maker for 30 years in the automobile industry in Michigan. He also was a member of the Amvets, the American Legion of Springfield and a lifetime members of the Eagles. Survivors include his wife, Helen Glodan Kerek; a daughter, Eileen Stambaugh, Ypsilant, Mich.; a son, James Kerek, Amarillo, Texas; a sister, Mary Resetar, Albany; six grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alexander and Anna Kerek; his sister, Annie Hosh Fry; four brothers, Paul Kerek, Joe Kerek, Steve Hosh and John Hosh; and a granddaughter. The Rev. Leo Guillot conducted the funeral Friday, and burial was in St. Margaret Catholic Church Cemetery.Geisler Funeral Home, Albany, was in charge. April 02, 2001 * Edna June Cary, 92, Ottumwa, Iowa * Juanita Elizabeth Jones Falgoust, 73, Hammond * Kirk Johnson Jr., 62, Hammond * Sam Charles Lucido, 80, Tickfaw * Kenny Ricks, 28, Amite * Elnora Tillery Walls, 86, Fluker EDNA JUNE CARY OTTUMWA, Iowa - Edna June Cary, 92, died Thursday, March 29, 2001, at Manor House in Sigourney, Iowa. She was a native of Ottumwa, a member of the Davis Street Christian Church, the Royal Neighbors of America and the Friendship Club at South Oak Towers. Survivors include two sons, Charles Cary, Ottumwa; Marvin Cary, Ankeny, Iowa; a daughter, Sandra Dage, Sigourney; 13 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Edgar Cary; a daughter, Carolyn Stilley; an infant son, John Henry Cary; three brothers, Harry, Cecil and Harold Myers; and a sister, Sadie Finney. The Rev. Dan French conducted the funeral this afternoon, and burial was in Shaul Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the family. Reece Funeral Home, Ottumwa, was in charge. JUANITA ELIZABETH JONES FALGOUST Juanita Elizabeth Jones Falgoust, 73, died Saturday, March 31, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. She was a native of Leflore County, Miss., a longtime member and deaconess of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Hammond, and was a registered nurse who retired after working at 7th Ward Hospital and the infirmary at Southeastern Louisiana University. Survivors include her husband of 53 years, Hymel George Falgoust Jr., Hammond; four children, Margaret Clifton and Gregory Falgoust, both of Hammond, Barbara Falgoust- Mennite and Vanessa Falgoust Cox, both of New York City; two sisters, Lillian Jones Ponce, Denton, Texas, and Mary Hunter Jones Carlton, Grenada, Miss.; and two granddaughters. The funeral was this morning at First Christian Church, and burial was in Greenlawn Mausoleum, Hammond. Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, was in charge. KIRK JOHNSON JR. Kirk Johnson Jr., 62, died Saturday, March 31, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center. He was a native of Greensburg and a truck driver for Southeastern Motor Lines. He was a member of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church. Survivors include his wife, Meather Dangerfield Johnson; a daughter, Ashley S. Johnson, Hammond; his mother, Fenner Spears Johnson; two sons, Kirk Johnson, Hammond, and Othello Dangerfield, Baton Rouge; six sisters, Dimple Bryer, Greensburg, Emma Crawford and Jeanette Jernigan, both of Buffalo, N.Y., Armadell Kendrick, Bobbie D. Mitchell and Bobbie J. Clark, all of New Orleans; two brothers, Nathaniel Johnson, Albany, and Charles Johnson, Greensburg; and one grandchild. He was preceded in death by his father, Kirk Johnson; and two brothers. Visitation will be tonight from 5 to 9 at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church. The Rev. Dr. Larry Cross will conduct the funeral Tuesday at 1 p.m. at the church, and burial will be in Holly Gardens Cemetery, Hammond. N.A. James Funeral Home is in charge. SAM CHARLES LUCIDO TICKFAW - Sam Charles Lucido, 80, died Saturday, March 31, 2001, at Lallie Kemp Regional Medical Center, Hammond. He was a native of Independence. Survivors include his wife, Dan Kerr Lucido, Tickfaw; three sons, Salvadore Lucido, Springfield, Ore., and Wayne and Michael Lucido, both of Independence; a brother, Kelly Lucido, Chicago; a sister, Lena Reid, Lumbard, Ill.; six grandchildren and three great- grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sam C. and Catherina A. Lucido; his first wife, Iris Lewis Lucido; two sisters, Christine Arnone and Vita Combetta; and a brother, Joe Lucido. Visitation will be tonight from 6 to 10 at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, and Tuesday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 10. Burial will be in Colonial Cemetery. KENNY RICKS AMITE - Kenny Ricks, 28, died Tuesday, March 27, 2001, at Hood Memorial Hospital in Amite. He was a native of Hammond and a resident of Amite. Survivors include a sister, Juanita Ricks; his mother, Beverly Ricks; and his grandmother, Mary Earnest, all of Hammond. The Rev. Eddie Braziel will conduct funeral Tuesday at 10 a.m. at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite. Burial will be in Butler Cemetery in Amite. ELNORA TILLERY WALLS FLUKER - Elnora Tillery Walls, 86, died Friday, March 30, 2001, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge. A native of Greensburg, she was a nurse, a member of Community Baptist Church where she served as deaconess and president of the Cemetery Committee. She was a graduate of Leland College in Baker, a former school teacher and personal health provider. Survivors include a daughter, Darletta Turner, Baton Rouge; four sons, Percy Boykins, New Orleans, Hollis Walls, Houston, Linnie Walls Jr. and Johnny Boykins, both of Fluker; 25 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Will and Nora Tillery; husbands, Johnny Reed Boykin and Linnie Walls Sr.; two sisters, Alberta Holland and Florence Lee; eight brothers, Emmit, George, Walter, Willie, Richmond, Lawson, Hollis and Rodger Tillery; one daughter, Deloris Evans; one son, Willie Alton Boykins; and three grandchildren. Visitation will be tonight from 5 to 9 at Angelic Funeral Home, Roseland. The Rev. Bobby Showers will conduct the funeral Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Community Baptist Church, Fluker. Dismissal will follow in the church cemetery. April 03, 2001 * Vera Johnson Bel, 85, Amite * Elaine Goynes Corkern, 39, Tickfaw * S. Dwayne Briggs, 44, Buras VERA JOHNSON BEL AMITE - Vera Johnson Bel, 85, died today, April 3, 2001, at St. Helena Parish Nursing Home, Greensburg. She was a housewife and a native of St. Helena Parish. Survivors include a daughter, Helen Bel, Metairie; a sister, Helen Johnson Gonzales, Metairie; two grandsons and two great-grandsons. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lea H. Bel. Visitation will be Thursday at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 10. The Rev. David Fortenberry will conduct the service, and burial will be in Amite Cemetery, Amite. ELAINE GOYNES CORKERN TICKFAW - Elaine Goynes Corkern, 39, died Sunday, April 1, 2001, in an apparent domestic shooting. She was a native of Amite. Survivors include two sons, William Corkern, Tickfaw, and Jonathan Corkern, Arcola; a brother, Curtis Goynes, Loranger; a sister, Janet Minor, Mississippi; and two grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dorothy and Theodore Goynes; and a twin sister, Lorraine Goynes. Visitation will be Wednesday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 9 a.m. until the funeral at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Shiloh Cemetery, Pine Grove. S. DWAYNE BRIGGS BURAS - S. Dwayne Briggs, 44, died Sunday, April 1, 2001, in Buras. He was a native of Buras, owner of D&J Bucking Bulls and vice president of Delta Well Surveyors Inc. Survivors include his wife, Jackie Briggs; a sister, Debbie Magee, Loranger; a brother, Bobby Briggs, Ruston; his father, Floyd Briggs, Hattiesburg, Miss.; and his mother, Frances Briggs, Alabaster, Ala. He was preceded in death by his son, Cody Wayne Briggs. Visitation will be Wednesday at Mothe Funeral Home, Buras, from 10:30 a.m. until the funeral at 1:30 p.m. Burial will be in Our Lady of Good Harbor Church, Buras. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Lane Frost Cowboy Bible Fund, Lane Baptist Church, P.O. Box 37, Lane, Okla. 74555. April 04, 2001 * Flora Holden Miley Brashear, 57, Denham Springs * Donald Elton Guy, 68, Jackson, Miss. * Thelma Alice Shelton Joiner, 96, Ponchatoula * Roosevelt McCarter, 68, Hammond * Lawrence Jacque Miller, 81, Albany * Rosemary Theresa Knapps Penn, 82, Hammond * Thomas Edward Pruett, 58, Pana, Ill. * Louis Richardson, 51, Hammond * Jamel Cordell Watson, newborn, Amite FLORA HOLDEN MILEY BRASHEAR DENHAM SPRINGS - Flora Holden Miley Brashear, 57, died Tuesday, April 3, 2001, at her daughter's home in Watson. She was a native of Amite, a 1961 graduate of Pride High School and a member of Milldale Baptist Church, Pride. Survivors include a daughter, Glynda Miley, Watson; a son, M. Wayne Miley, Denham Springs; 11 sisters, Mary Sagnibene Theaux, Brenda Arnone, Linda Smith and Sabrina Policheck, all of Amite, Leminda DeFrances, Baton Rouge, Molly Arnold, Dallas, Cathy Derrey, LaBelle, Fla., Emily Conley, Alexandria, Glenda Cox, Tylertown, Miss., and Roma Carol Corley; two brothers, David Hazelwood, Waverly, Tenn., and James Hazelwood, Houston; two stepsisters, Betty Perkins and Mildred Cobb, both of Baton Rouge; a stepbrother, Billy Joe Bradham, Amite; and three grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Elvin Miley; her second husband, Emmett Brashear; and her parents, Dewitt Holden and Evelyn Loraine Ellis Hazelwood. Visitation will be tonight from 6 to 9 at Seale Funeral Home, Denham Springs; and Thursday from 8 to 10:15 a.m. The Rev. Jimmy Robertson will conduct the funeral at 11 a.m. at Milldale Baptist Church, Pride, and burial will be in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society, 4919 Jamestown Ave., Suite 104, Baton Rouge 70808. DONALD ELTON GUY JACKSON, Miss. - Donald Elton Guy, 68, died Monday, April 2, 2001, at his home. He was a native of Sunny Hill, a salesman and a veteran of the U.S. Army. Survivors include three sons, Bruce and Keith Guy, both of Jackson, Miss., and Buddy Guy, Terry, Miss.; three daughters, Denise Guy Johnson, Deanna Guy Holloway and Sonya Guy Allison, all of Jackson, Miss.; two brothers, Wayne Guy, Mt. Hermon, and Stanley Guy, Kentwood; three sisters, Janice Rayborn and Geneivia Buras, both of Mt. Hermon, and Dianne Wall, Baker; 18 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Eva Guy; and his parents, Ruby and Glynn Guy. Visitation will be today from 5 to 9 p.m. at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, and Thursday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 10:30. Jackie Spell will conduct the service, and burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood. THELMA ALICE SHELTON JOINER PONCHATOULA - Thelma Alice Shelton Joiner, 96, died Tuesday, April 3, 2001, at her home. She was a native of Ponchatoula. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond. ROOSEVELT McCARTER Roosevelt McCarter, 68, died Sunday, April 1, 2001 at his home in Hammond. A native of Independence, McCarter was a retired school teacher, a member of Greenfield Baptist Church, Tangipahoa Federation of Teachers and Tangipahoa Democratic Executive Committee and a U.S. Army veteran. Survivors include his wife, Helen W. Domingue McCarter, Hammond; three daughters, Joycelyn M. Lee, Hammond, Lula Mathews, San Antonio, and Lagretta Jarrett, Chicago; one son, Willie Davis, Kansas City, Kan.; one sister, Betty Carter, Bogalusa; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alphonse and Rose D. McCarter; first wife, Evelyn McCarter; and stepson, Harry A. Domingue III. Visitation will be at N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, Thursday from 6 to 9. The Rev. Jerry Hanible will conduct the funeral at Greenfield Baptist Church Friday at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Durbin Cemetery. LAWRENCE JACQUE MILLER ALBANY - Lawrence Jacque Miller, 81, died Tuesday, April 3, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. He was a native of Chataignier. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Geisler Funeral Home, Albany. ROSEMARY THERESA KNAPPS PENN Rosemary Theresa Knapps Penn, 82, died today, April 4, 2001, at her Hammond residence. A native of New Roads, Penn was a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church. Survivors include her husband, Roy H. Penn, Hammond; one daughter, Ruth Rainey Guidry, Baton Rouge; and one brother, Walter J. Knapps, Hammond. She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter J. and Nora Lemay Knapps. Visitation will be Thursday night from 6 to 10 at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, and Friday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 11, the Rev. Larry Brignac officiating. Burial will be in Sand Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hospice of Hammond. THOMAS EDWARD PRUETT PANA, Ill. - Thomas Edward "Buster" Pruett, 58, died Sunday, April 1, 2001, at Decatur Memorial Hospital. Born in Ponchatoula, Pruett moved to Pana, Ill., 20 years ago from Louisiana, worked as a pipe fitter and was affiliated with the Baptist religion. Survivors include his wife, Cammie Pruett, Pana; two sons, Glenn Pruett, Colver, Mich., and Gary Pruett, Indianapolis; one daughter, Bridget Pruett, Ponchatoula; one stepson, Jamie MacKinlay, Pana; two sisters, Doris Stevens and Ruby McAlaster, both of Ponchatoula; two brothers, Curtis and Allen Pruett, both of Ponchatoula; and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother, Kenneth Pruett; and two sisters, Mavis Pruett and Francis Williams. The Rev. Lawrence Gibson conducted the funeral today at McCracken-Dean Funeral Home, Pana, and burial was in Twin Pines Cemetery, Pana. LOUIS RICHARDSON Louis Richardson, 51, died March 27, 2001, in Hammond. He was a native of Independence and a laborer at Sanderson Farms. He was preceded in death by his parents. The Rev. S. Hammond conducted a memorial service today at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond. Burial was in Holly Gardens Cemetery, Hammond. JAMEL CORDELL WATSON AMITE - Two-day-old infant Jamel Cordell Watson died at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond Tuesday, April 3, 2001. Survivors include her mother, Ieshia R. Cook, Amite; her father, Oliver Jerome Watson, Amite; two sisters, Myah Cook and Jamia Watson, both of Amite; her grandmother, Mary Watson, Amite; her grandfathers, Samuel Brown Jr. and Oliver Watson, both of Amite; and her great-grandmother, Emma Cook, Amite. She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Brenda M. Cook. The Rev. Eugene Smith will conduct a memorial service Thursday at 11 a.m. at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite. Burial will be in Fleming Cemetery, Independence. April 05, 2001 * Judy Fendlason Friedman, 51, Albany * Howard Imes, 81, Kentwood * Thelma Alice Shelton Joiner, 96, Ponchatoula * Lawrence Jacque Miller, 81, Albany * Wilbert Robertson, 74, Amite * Henry Wyatt, 60, Covington JUDY FENDLASON FRIEDMAN ALBANY - Judy Fendlason Friedman, 51, died Tuesday, April 3, 2001, at her home. She was a native of Albany. Survivors include her husband, Julius Freidman, Albany; a son, John Patrick, Albany, N.Y.; and three sisters, Alma Meyers and Norma Culbreath, both of Slidell, and Robbie Yent, Ponchatoula. She was preceded in death by her parents, Spencer E. and Lillian Lee Fendlason. Visitation will be tonight from 5 to 9 at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, and Friday from 8 a.m. until 1:15 p.m. The Rev. Leo Guillot will conduct the funeral at 2 at St. Margaret Catholic Church, Albany, and burial will be in the church cemetery. HOWARD IMES KENTWOOD - Howard Imes, 81, died Tuesday, April 3, 2001, at Hood Memorial Hospital in Amite. He was a native of Kentwood. Survivors include two sons, Willie Imes, Kentwood, and Harold J. Smith, Kentwood; and two grandchildren. Visitation will be at Sweet Home Baptist Church, Kentwood, Friday night from 6 to 9. The funeral will be at Sweet Home Baptist Church Saturday at noon and will be conducted by the Rev. Lee Allen Pines Jr. Burial will be in Hookfin-Womack Cemetery, Kentwood. N.A. James Funeral Home Inc., Hammond, is in charge. THELMA ALICE SHELTON JOINER PONCHATOULA - Thelma Alice Shelton Joiner, 96, died Tuesday, April 3, 2001, at her home. She was a native of Ponchatoula. Survivors include three daughters, Erma Bardwell, Ponchatoula, Elaine Adams, Pumpkin Center, and Edith Heno, Hammond; three sons, Lloyd E. Joiner and Arthur Joiner, both of Ponchatoula, and Melvin Joiner, Quitman, Texas; two sisters, Grace Eastman, Hammond, and Lura Cooper, Robert; a brother, Leo Shelton, Hammond; 34 grandchildren, 64 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Eli Joiner; her parents, John and Florence Wainwright Shelton; a daughter, Eloise J. Jones; two sons, John Austin and Leslie Lee Joiner; two sisters, Iona Vineyard and Adele Shelton; a brother, Everette Shelton; and two grandchildren. Visitation will be Friday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 10 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 1 p.m. The Rev. John Dickens and the Rev. William Joiner will conduct the service, and burial will be in Sand Hill Cemetery. LAWRENCE JACQUE MILLER ALBANY - Lawrence Jacque Miller, 81, died Tuesday, April 3, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a native of Chataignier. Survivors include his wife, Rosalie Zechenelly Miller, Albany; two daughters, Ruby Ann King, Abita Springs, and Betty Dykes, Slidell; five sons, Larry Kernis Miller, Slidell, Launey Miller, Lafayette, Nathan Miller, Springfield, Ronald Miller, Abita Springs, and David Miller, Carencro; six sisters, Eva Miller and Nola Fourroux, both of Ponchatoula, Wavey Jones, Ville Platte, Rita Miller, Porter, Texas, Elnora Fontenot, Katy, Texas, and Leona Ortego, Mamou; two brothers, Abrar Miller Jr. and Frank Miller, both of Eunice; 23 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and one great-great-granchild. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Ruby Ann Rivere Miller; and one brother, Edgar Miller. Visitation will be tonight from 6 to 10 at Geisler Funeral Home Chapel, Amite, with a vigil at 7 p.m. and Friday from 8 to 9:45 a.m. The Rev. Leo Guillot will conduct the funeral at 10 at St. Margaret Catholic Church, Albany, with burial in the church cemetery. WILBERT ROBERTSON AMITE - Wilbert Robertson, 74, died March 31, 2001, at his home. He was a native of Tangipahoa. Survivors include five sons, Wilbert Robertson Jr., Amite, Lee Ernest and Clarence Robertson, both of Roseland, Anthony Robertson, Amite, and Burnell Robertson, Greensburg; five daughters, Margaret Walker, Dorothy Taylor and Rose Mary Morris, all of Amite, Gloria Brooks, Springfield, and Jeanella Garrett, Roseland; and two sisters, Mary Jackson, Amite, and Emma Lee Nichols, Roseland. He was preceded in death by his parents, Godfield and Lila Lampkin; two brothers, five sisters, and his wife, Adrine Robertson. Visitation will be Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite. The Rev. Bobby Shower will conduct the funeral Saturday at 1 p.m. at Community Baptist Church, Fluker, and burial will be in the church cemetery. HENRY WYATT COVINGTON - Henry "Kelly" Wyatt, 60, died Sunday, Arpil 1, 2001, in Hammond. He was a native of Covington, a concrete helper and a veteran of the U.S. Navy. Survivors include three sisters, Carrie Kelly Cyprain, Covington, Priscilla K. Jackson, Huntsville, Ala., and Geraldine Thomas, New Orleans; and five brothers, George Ezekiel, Theodore James, Elijah Thomas, Jacob and Joseph Kelly, all of Covington. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister. The funeral will be Friday at 8 p.m. at First Missionary Baptist Church, Covington, with dismissal Saturday at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Wilson Cemetery. Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. April 06, 2001 * James H. Bryant, 72, Slidell * Louella Davis, 91, Ponchatoula * Sarah James, 97, Hammond * Alice Anderson Menzer, 84, Springfield * Alice B. Sweeney, 89, Hammond JAMES H. BRYANT SLIDELL - James H. Bryant, 72, died Wednesday, April 4, 2001, at North Shore Regional Medical Center, Slidell. He was a native of St. Helena Parish and an environmental enforcement officer for the city of New Orleans. Survivors include his wife, Martha Barker Bryant, Slidell; a daughter, Elizabeth Towe, Jefferson; four sons, John Bryant, Orlando, Fla., Temple Bryant, Loranger, Stephen Bryant, Raceland, and Matthew Bryant, Independence; a sister, Pearl Travis, Kentwood; seven grandchildren and four step-grandchildren. Visitation will be tonight from 6 to 9 at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, and Saturday at Pine Ridge Methodist Church from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 10. The Rev. Bob Heustess will conduct the service, and burial will be in Pine Ridge Cemetery. LOUELLA DAVIS PONCHATOULA - Louella Davis, 91, died Tuesday, April 3, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center. She was a native of Zachary. Visitation will be today from 1 to 3 p.m. at N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond. The Rev. Gerald Cheatham will conduct the funeral Saturday at 11 a.m. at Star Valley Baptist Church, and burial will be in Holly Gardens, Cemetery. SARAH JAMES Sarah James, 97, died Sunday, April 1, 2001, at her home in Hammond. She was a native of Natalbany. Survivors include five daughters, Luberta Robinson, Gary, Ind., Naomi Vinnings, Pontiac, Mich., Willie Mae Johnson, Amite, Augustine Bryant, Hammond, and Mary Brown, New Orleans; 39 grandchildren, 70 great-grandchildren and 50 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Willie James; two daughters, four sons, four stepbrothers and a stepsister. Visitation is tonight from 5 to 9 at N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond. The Rev. Charlie B. Hampton will conduct the funeral Saturday at 1 p.m. at Alstork AME Zion Church, and burial will be in Holly Gardens Cemetery. ALICE ANDERSON MENZER SPRINGFIELD - Alice Anderson Menzer, 84, died Thursday, April 5, 2001, at Belle Maison Nursing Home, Hammond. She was a native of Springfield. Survivors include a son, Elert "Blackie" Menzer Jr., Springfield; a daughter, May Evelyn Haubold, Texas; a sister, Emmalean Davis, Ponchatoula; eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchioldren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Elert Menzer; two sons, William and Kroger Louis Menzer; three brothers, Eddie, Albert and Joseph Anderon; two sisters, Myrtle Kimball and Rosalie Burns; and her parents, Milton and Mary Richardson Anderson. The Rev. Leo Guillot will conduct a graveside service Saturday at 9 a.m. at Carter Cemetery, Springfield. Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. ALICE B. SWEENEY Alice B. "Allie" Sweeney, 89, died Thursday, April 5, 2001, at Hammond Nursing Home. A native of Washington Parish, she was a housewife. Survivors include two daughters, Lena Brunett and Lillie Smith, both of Independence; a son, Bobby Sweeney, Wingdale, N.Y.; two sisters, Vinnie Kinchen, Amite, and Alma Gates, Ponchatoula; nine grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, seven great-great- grandchildren, five step-great-grandchildren and two step-great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Milton T. Sweeney; and two daughters, Jessie Bell and Patricia Carol Sweeney. Visitation will be from 6 until 9 tonight at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, and Saturday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 10. The Rev. Kenneth Lawyer will conduct the service, and burial will be in Ford Cemetery in Independence. April 08, 2001 * Ellen Stewart Bankston * Myrtle Rita Johnson Calahan * Tommy Patrick Mchenry * Herbert C. Needham * Irene Lee Corbin Parker * Mary Martha Schilling Ryan * Autumn Joi Sherman * Rosalie Haight Spratt * Ruby L. Varnado * Gloria White ELLEN STEWART BANKSTON Ellen Stewart Bankston, 89, died Friday, April 6, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center. A native of Albany, she was a Livingston Parish educator having taught at Albany Elementary for 41 years. She was a member of the Livingston Parish Retired Teachers Association and of First Christian Church in Hammond. Survivors include two sons, Raymond Lafayette Bankston, New Orleans, and Edward Bruce Bankston, Covington; a daughter Augusta "Gussie" Yanda, Hammond; a sister Mary Allen, Hammond; seven grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lafayette Lawrence Bankston; two half sisters, Gladys Dooley and Mattie Gill; two brothers, Warren and Dillard Stewart; and a sister, Artie Fellom. Visitation will be from 6 until 8 tonight at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home, Hammond, and Monday from 8 until 11 a.m. The Rev. Bill Eubanks will conduct the funeral at 11:30 a.m. at First Christian Church, Hammond. Burial will be in New Beulah Baptist Church Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Christian Church, 305 E. Charles St., Hammond, 70401. MYRTLE RITA JOHNSON CALAHAN FOLSOM - Myrtle Rita Johnson Calahan, 76, died Sunday, April 1, 2001, at Lallie Kemp Medical Center in Independence. A native of New Roads, she was a resident of Folsom. Survivors include her husband, James Calahan, Folsom; three daughters, Cynthia C. Calahan Grady, Montreal, Canada, Ylori Calahan, Wallace, Texas, and Wanda Calahan, Kansas City, Mo.; four sons, James Arnold Calahan, Hammond, Marvin L. Calahan, New Orleans, Anthony B. Calahan, Norfolk, Va., Selwyn L. Calahan, Kansas City, Mo.; two sisters, Mary Lawrence and Geneva Dugas, both of Baton Rouge; and 17 grandchildren. Leroy Divinity and Phillip Cockerhan conducted the funeral Saturday at Midway Church of Christ Holiness. Burial was in Folsom Community Cemetery. Crain and Sons Funeral Home, Franklinton, was in charge of arrangements. TOMMY PATRICK McHENRY GAITHERSBURG, Md. - Tommy Patrick McHenry, 40, died Tuesday, April 3, 2001, at his home. A native of Orlando, Fla., he was a graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi, worked at Sea World and Walt Disney World Living Seas as a marine biologist for 20 years and was currently employed with the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, Md., as a molecular biologist doing research. Survivors include his parents, Leemon and Joyce Scimeca McHenry, Covington; and a brother, Dr. Leemon McHenry Jr., Los Angeles. Visitation will be from 6 until 9 tonight at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home, Hammond, with a prayer vigil at 7 p.m. and Monday from 8 until 10:15 a.m. The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. at Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church in Independence. Burial will be in Colonial Mausoleum in Independence. HERBERT C. NEEDHAM MONTPELIER - Herbert C. Needham, 82, died Friday, April 6, 2001, at his home. A native of St. Helena Parish, he was a U.S. Army World War II veteran and a drilling and completion superintendent. He is survived by a niece and two cousins. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Christine Needham and Helen Needham Gunn; and four brothers, Maurice, Robert Emmett, Julian E. and Herman G. Needham. Visitation will be from 6 until 9 tonight at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, and Monday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 2 p.m. Dutch Schanzbach will conduct the service, and burial will be in Sharkey Cemetery in Amite. IRENE LEE CORBIN PARKER Irene Lee Corbin Parker, 92, died Friday, April 6, 2001, at Heritage Manor Nursing Home in Hammond. A native of Ponchatoula, she was a member of First United Methodist Church in Ponchatoula and a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Nova Stella Chapter in Ponchatoula. Survivors include six daughters, Ruby Parker Martin, Ponchatoula, Louella Parker Davis, Hammond, Frances Jean Parker Garaudy, Kenner, Nelda Parker Dendinger, Killian, Daunice Parker, Denham Springs, and Gail Parker Gowland, Chalmette; three sons, George and Walter Parker, both of Ponchatoula, and Harold Parker, Port Orchard, Wash.; 23 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Benjamin Parker; four sisters, Annie Lou Magruder, Vivian Perry, Mae Beyl and Sadie Anderson; a brother, William "Buddy" Corbin; and a grandchild. Visitation will be Tuesday at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 11, with an Eastern Star service will be at 10. The Rev. Walter Parker Jr. will conduct the service, and burial will be in Davies Family Cemetery in Ponchatoula. MARY MARTHA SCHILLING RYAN PONCHATOULA - Mary Martha Schilling Ryan, 80, died Saturday, April 7, 2001, at her home. She was a native of Wadesboro. Survivors include her husband, Samuel J. Ryan, Ponchatoula; a daughter, Ceceila K. Fletcher, Ponchatoula; a son, Larry S. Ryan, Ponchatoula; a sister, Susanna Painter, Houston; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Steve Kiss; three brothers, Albine, Henry and Alphonse Schilling; a sister, Josephine Poche; and a great-grandson. Visitation will be from 6 until 10 tonight at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, with a 7 p.m. vigil prayer service, and Monday from 8 until 9:45 a.m. The Dominican Fathers will conduct the funeral at 10 at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial will be in Parklawn Memorial Gardens. AUTUMN JOI SHERMAN SPRINGFIELD - Autumn Joi Sherman, 18, died Friday, April 6, 2001, at Tulane Medical Center, New Orleans. She was a native of Springfield, a 2000 graduate of Hammond High School and attended Delgado College in New Orleans. Survivors include her father, Andrew Sherman, New Orleans; her mother and stepfather, Elaine and Gregory Rheams, Springfield; a brother, Andrew "Trey" Sherman III, Springfield; her grandparents, Dorothy and Andrew Sherman Sr., New Orleans, Evelyn and L.C. Slocum, Hammond, and William and Ruby Rheams, Springfield. Visitation will be Monday from 6 to 9 p.m. at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond. The Rev. Calvin Brown will conduct the funeral Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Third Zion Baptist Church, Maurepas, and burial will be in Holly Gardens Cemetery. ROSALIE HAIGHT SPRATT Rosalie Haight Spratt, 89, died Friday, April 6, 2001, at Live Oak Assisted Living Center in Hammond. A native of Ponchatoula, she was an educator in the Tangipahoa Parish School System. Survivors include two sons, Charles Haight Spratt, Ponchatoula, and Robert Acres Spratt, New Orleans; two stepchildren, Mrs. Gene Page, Houston, and Jim Spratt, Seminole, Fla.; a granddaughter, two great-grandsons, eight step-grandchildren and 16 step-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, James B. Spratt; three sisters, Mary Muller, Louise Hungate and Julia Pedalahore; and three brothers, Edward, Frank and Rufus Haight. Visitation will be from 6 until 9 p.m. Monday at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, and Tuesday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 10. The Rev. Ralph Kimball will conduct the service, and burial will be in Wetmore Cemetery. RUBY L. VARNADO PONCHATOULA - Ruby L. Varnado, 73, died Monday, April 2, 2001, at her home. She was a native of Osyka, Miss. Survivors include a son, Lee Edward Bess, Ponchatoula; three sisters, Dora Lee Stansberry, Evelyn V. Joffrion and Mildren Varnado; five brothers, Clifton, John Henry, Felix, Alphonse and Sytaniel Varnado; seven grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Visitation will be from 1 until 3 p.m. Monday at N.A. James Funeral Home in Hammond. The Rev. Gerald Cheatham will the funeral at 7 p.m. at Star Valley Baptist Church. Dismissal and burial will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Ponchatoula Cemetery. GLORIA WHITE Gloria White, 51, died Thursday, April 5, 2001, at Heritage Manor Nursing Home. She was a resident of Hammond. Survivors include her husband, Willie Stevens; two daughters, Rene Levi and Denise White, both of Hammond; two sons, Henry Magee and Timothy White, both of Hammond; a brother Earnest Butler Jr., Hammond; her mother, Nancy Stevens; and six grandchildren. Visitation will be from 1 until 3 p.m. Monday at N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond. The Rev. L.T. Maryland will conduct the funeral at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Lincoln Park Baptist Church. Burial will be in Holly Gardens Cemetery. April 09, 2001 * Leche E. Bennett, 65, Kentwood * Willie Donald, 51, Amite * Hobert W. Smith Sr., 93, Hillsdale * Ellen Jones Tullos Sutherland Welch, 96, Ponchatoula LECHE E. BENNETT KENTWOOD - Leche E. Bennett, 65, died Saturday, April 7, 2001, at Lallie Kemp Regional Medical Center, Independence. A native of Amite, Bennett was a pipe line welder and member of Plumbers and Steamfitters Local Union No. 198, Baton Rouge. Survivors include his wife, Priscilla White Bennett, Kentwood; two brothers, Lawrence Bennett, Hermitage, Tenn., and Lester Bennett, Mooringsport; and three sisters, Bernice Ballard of Kentwood, Myrtle Newland of Kentwood, and Bobbie Jean Poirrier, Bivins, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hinze and Emma Mae Bennett; two brothers, Calvin Bennett and Dewitt Bennett; and one sister, Alma Bennett. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home in Hammond tonight from 6 to 9 and Tuesday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. The Rev. Bob Simpson will officiate. Burial will be in Hungarian Presbyterian Cemetery, Albany. WILLIE DONALD AMITE - Willie Donald, 51, died Tuesday, April 3, 2001. He was a native of Amite. Survivors include a son, Willie Devon Donald, Kentwood; a sister, Deloris Simmons, Georgetown, Texas; his mother, Mamie Dillon, Kentwood; his father, Charlie Henry Donald, Georgetown, Texas; and three grandchildren. Visitation will be tonight from 5 to 9 at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite. The funeral, conducted by Elder Nathanial Richardson, will be Tuesday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in Osyka Community Cemetery, Osyka, Miss. HOBERT W. SMITH SR. HILLSDALE - Hobert W. Smith Sr., "Paw Paw Bubblegum," 93, died at 10 a.m. Sunday, April 8, 2001, at Hood Memorial Hospital in Amite. A native of Washington Parish, Smith was a carpenter and lived in Hillsdale. Survivors include two sons, Hobert W. Smith, Hillsdale, and Thomas Eugene Smith, Ponchatoula; seven grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren. His wife, Lula Bell Smith, preceded him in death. Visitation will be at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, Monday night from 6 to 9 and Tuesday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Killian Chapel Cemetery, Amite. ELLEN JONES TULLOS SUTHERLAND WELCH PONCHATOULA - Ellen Jones Tullos Sutherland Welch, 96, died Sunday, April 8, 2001, at Belle Maison Nursing Home in Hammond. A native and resident of Ponchatoula, she was a member and past president of American Legion Auxiliary Post #47 in Ponchatoula and a member of First United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women and the Cheerful Circle Sunday School Class. She was also a member and past president of the Rebecca Lodge in Ponchatoula. Survivors include her daughter, Catherine Joice Sutherland Parker, Ponchatoula; a son, Noland Andrew Sutherland, Goodbee; 13 grandchildren; 44 great-grandchildren and 23 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Delton Tullos; her second husband, William "Bill" Sutherland; her third husband, Elisha Breed Welch; two daughters, Ione Janie Sutherland and Betty Lea Sutherland Schafer; a brother, William Jones; three sisters, Eva J. Wells, Jane J. Reno and Ida J. Smith; two grandchildren; a great- grandchild and a great-great-grandchild. Visitation will be from 2 until 5 p.m. Tuesday at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home in Ponchatoula. The Rev. Walter Parker Jr. and the Rev. Bob Diech will conduct the funeral at 5 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Ponchatoula Cemetery. April 10, 2001 * Lawrence R. Bushnell, 55, Hammond * R.P. Herrington Jr., age not listed, Kentwood * Louiedell F. Lewis, 87, Kentwood * Irma Foil Rube, 81, Baton Rouge * Daniel Lee Collins Ryerson, 21, Denham Springs LAWRENCE R. BUSHNELL Lawrence R. Bushnell, 55, died Sunday, April 8, 2001, of a heart attack at Lakeview Hospital. A native of Bay City, Mich., he had retired from the U.S. Coast Guard and was a Vietnam War veteran and a graduate of Saginan Valley College in Saginan, Mich.. He was a member of Columbia Players in Hammond, the Tangipahoa Umpire League and Grace Memorial Episcopal Church, Hammond. Survivors include his wife, Connie George Bushnell, Hammond; his father, Rollin E. Bushnell; his mother, Hazel Bushnell; a son, Lawrence R. Bushnell Jr., Baton Rouge; a daughter, Cassanora Lynn Bushnell, Montgomery, Ala.; and a sister, Rolda Bushnell Schepper, Tampa, Fla. Visitation was this morning from 10 until the funeral at noon at Schoen Funeral Home, Covington. Burial will be private. R.P. HERRINGTON JR. KENTWOOD - Dr. R.P. Herrington Jr. died Monday, April 9, 2001, of leukemia at Veterans Memorial Hospital. A retired optometrist, Herrington was a graduate of the University of Mississippi and the Southern College of Optometry, Memphis, Tenn. He served as an officer in the U.S. Navy during World War II where he survived the Pearl Harbor attack on Dec. 7, 1941. He also served under and accompanied Admiral Byrd on the infamous South Pole expedition, family members said. He was an avid sportsman, championship archer and inventor of "the Pod." Survivors include three sons, R.P. "Bobby" Herrington III., Jackson, Miss., Ray Hubert Herrington, Raymond, Miss., and Roy Ponder Herrington, Fannin, Miss.; a daughter, Hilda H. Askew, Jackson; a sister, Dorothy Dahm, Biloxi; 10 grandchildren; and two great-granddaughters. His wife, Jewel Thomas Yarbrough Herrington, Kentwood, preceded him in death. Visitation will be tonight from 6 until 9 at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood. The funeral will begin at 11 a.m. Wednesday in the funeral home chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or Gideon's International. LOUIEDELL F. LEWIS KENTWOOD - Louiedell F. Lewis, 87, a homemaker and avid gardener, died at 3:03 p.m. on Sunday, April 8, 2001, at Hood Memorial Hospital in Amite. A native of Amite County, Miss., she was a member of Lewiston Baptist Church for about 70 years. She sang in the choir and taught Sunday school. Survivors include two daughters, Dura L. Hart of Brandon, Miss., and Martha Holbrook of Norman, Okla.; a son, Mitchell Lewis of Terry, Miss.; seven grandchildren; and two great- granddaughters. Her husband, Ralph W. Lewis, preceded her in death as did a son, Jones Walter Lewis, and a grandson. Visitation will be at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, tonight from 6 until 9 and at Lewiston Baptist Church Wednesday from 9 a.m. until the funeral, conducted by the Rev. Leon Carpenter, the Rev. Richard Hagaen and the Rev. Othan Schilling, at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Lewiston Cemetery, Kentwood. IRMA FOIL RUBE BATON ROUGE - Irma "Little Mama" Foil Rube, 81, died at 11:20 a.m. Sunday, April 8, 2001, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge. A Baton Rouge native, she was a retired secretary to the business manager at Baton Rouge General Medical Center. She had worked there 23 years. She was a member of Broadmoor Baptist Church. Survivors include a daughter, Rebecca Prichard, Baton Rouge; a son, Fred C. "Ricky" Rube Jr., Hammond; a sister, Joyce Fortenberry, Port Isabelle, Texas; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Fred C. Rube Sr., and parents, William E. Foil and Irma Foil. Visitation was at Welsh Funeral Home, Baton Rouge, Monday night and this morning from 9 until the funeral at 2 p.m. Burial will be in Greenoaks Memorial Park. DANIEL LEE COLLINS RYERSON DENHAM SPRINGS - Daniel Lee Collins Ryerson, 21, died at 1:30 a.m. Monday, April 9, 2001, in an automobile accident in Denham Springs. A Denham Springs native, Ryerson worked at Dixie Land Bus Tours. Survivors include his parents, Timothy and Vicki Ryerson of Denham Springs; three sisters, Lynette Reno, Stephanie Seales and Christina Cutrer, all of Ponchatoula; his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. J.R. Ryerson of Greenville, S.C., and Henry Perrin, Ponchatoula. His grandmother, Wilda Perrin, preceded him in death. Visitation will be at Seale Funeral Home, Denham Springs, tonight from 5 until 9 and Wednesday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Evergreen Memorial Park, Denham Springs. April 11, 2001 Leo Lester, 81, Gretna LEO LESTER GRETNA - Leo Lester, 81, died Monday, April 9, 2001, at West Jefferson Hospital in Marrero. He was a native of Loranger and a retired Algiers Iron Works and Dry Dock worker. Survivors include his wife, Julie Duett Lester of Gretna; two daughters, Kathy Lester of Harvey and Diane Lester Busselman of Rowlett, Texas; a son, Larry Lester of New Harmony, Ind.; and two grandchildren. Four sisters, Katie Joiner, Laura Fairburn, Lillian Willie and Louise Haas, and three brothers, John, Ernest and Kenzie Lester preceded him in death. Visitation will be today from 6 to 11 p.m. at Mothe Funeral Home, 2100 West Bank Expressway, Harvey, and Thursday from 7:30 a.m. until the funeral at 11 a.m. A graveside service and burial will be conducted at Joiner Cemetery in Loranger at 2 p.m. April 12, 2001 * Roxie Matthews Chapman, 97, Kentwood * Angie Brocato Palmintier, 83, New Orleans ROXIE MATTHEWS CHAPMAN KENTWOOD - Roxie Matthews Chapman, 97, died Monday, April 9, 2001, at Memorial Medical Center. She was a native of Gloster, Miss. She is survived by seven sons, Willie Williams, James, Leroy, Norwood Jr., Floyd and Henry Chapman, all of New Orleans, and Lemmie Chapman of Amite; six daughters, Lillie Mae Moses of Liberty, Miss., Pearl Howard of Winstonville, Miss., Annie B. Taylor of Bogalusa, Elnora Moore of Mt. Boyou, Miss., and Foxie Gray and Topsy Edward, both of New Orleans; 71 grandchildren, 154 great-grandchildren and 67 great-great- grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Norwood Chapman Sr.; three sons, Cary Williams and Emerson and Zebelum Chapman. Visitation will be today from 5 to 8 p.m. at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite. The Rev. Celestine Harris will conduct the funeral Friday at 1 p.m. at Brown Chapel Baptist Church, Tangipahoa. Burial will be in Hope Cemetery, Kentwood. ANGIE BROCATO PALMINTIER NEW ORLEANS - Angie Brocato Palmintier, 83, a native of Hammond, died. She is survived by one son, J. Donald Palmintier; two brothers, Thomas and Vincent Brocato; two sisters, Lucille Ranzino and Mary Brocato Sullivan; and one grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph J. Palmintier Jr.; and one son, Cena Brocato Genovese. The funeral was today at Mothe Funeral Home, Harvey, and burial will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wynhoven Nursing Home. April 13, 2001 * Shawn L. Bankston, 35, Jayess, Miss. * Arvel Brickey, 97, Kenner * Willie Brown, 71, Hammond * Gene Etheldred King, 51, Baton Rouge * James Augustin Haydel Jr., 89, Ponchatoula * Angie Brocato Palmintier, 83, New Orleans * Milton Walker, 74, Ponchatoula SHAWN L. BANKSTON JAYESS, Miss. - Shawn L. Bankston, 35, died Thursday, April 12, 2001, as a result of an automobile accident in Grenada, Miss. She was a native of Pumpkin Center. Arrangements with Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, are incomplete. ARVEL BRICKEY KENNER - Arvel Brickey, 97, died Saturday, March 31, 2001, at Metropolitan Hospice in Jefferson. He was a native of Van Buren County, Ark., a graduate of Palmer Chiropractic College and served as minister of Jehovah's Witnesses. He is survived by one daughter, Brownella Nicolaides of Kenner. He was preceded in death by his wife, Oma M. Brickey. Borace Dominque will conduct a memorial service Saturday at 2 p.m. at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witnesses, 9024 W. Metairie Blvd., Metairie. WILLIE BROWN Willie Brown, 71, died Tuesday, April 10, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center. He was a native of Kentwood. He is survived by three daughters, Francis Billingsley, Delores Boyd and Alma Lewis, all of Colorado Springs, Colo.; two sons, Willie E., Michael and Larry Brown, all of Colorado Springs; one sister, Dora Lee Wells of Magnolia, Miss.; 10 grandchildren; and 20 great- grandchildren. Visitation will be today from 4 to 8 p.m. at N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond. The Rev. Herbert Wagner will conduct the funeral Saturday at 11 a.m. at Greater Love COGIC, Hammond. Burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery, Hammond. GENE ETHELDRED KING BATON ROUGE - Gene Etheldred King, 51, died Thursday, April 12, 2001, at Baton Rouge General Hospital. He was a native of Holden. He was employed by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals Bureau of Health Services Financing. He was also a member of Holden Baptist Church and a graduate of Louisiana State University. He is survived by four sisters, Norma King Doughty of Holden, Joyce King Gill of Albany, Imelda King Broussard of Livingston and Linda King Smith of Brookhaven, Miss.; and one brother, Glenn King of Holden. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lenwood and Ruby Tynes King; and one brother, Charles Ray King. Visitation will be today from 6 to 10 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. until the funeral at 11:30 at Seale Funeral Home, Denham Springs. Burial will be in Courtney Cemetery, Holden. Memorial donations may be made to the American Lung Association, 2325 Severn Ave., New Orleans 70001. JAMES AUGUSTIN HAYDEL JR. PONCHATOULA - James Augustin Haydel Jr., 89, died Thursday, April 12, 2001, at Landmark Living Center, Hammond. He was a native of LaPlace. Arrangements with Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, are incomplete. ANGIE BROCATO PALMINTIER NEW ORLEANS - Angie Brocato Palmintier, 83, and a native of Hammond, died. She is survived by one son, J. Donald Palmintier; one brother, Thomas Brocato of Hammond. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph J. Palmintier, one brother, Vincent Brocato; three sisters, Cena Brocato Genovese, Lucille Ranzino and Mary Brocato Sullivan; and one grandchild. Mothe Funeral Home, Harvey, was in charge, and burial will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wynhoven Nursing Home. MILTON WALKER PONCHATOULA - Milton Walker, 74, died Tuesday, April 3, 2001, at Beaufort Memorial Hospital, Beaufort, S.C. He is survived by four daughters, Brenda Walker of Lutcher, Lydia Perry and Phyllis Route, both of Ponchatoula, and Georgia Ann Perry of Lake Charles; one son, Paul Perry of Ponchatoula; three brothers, Robert and Issac Walker, both of Ponchatoula, and Charlie Walker of Hazelhurst, Miss.; eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two sisters and four brothers. Visitation will be Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond. The Rev. Roosevelt Watson will conduct the funeral Saturday at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Ponchatoula Cemetery. April 15, 2001 * Shawn L. Bankston, 35, Jayess, Miss. * Sam Carter JR., 87, Hammond * James Augustin Haydel Jr., 89, Ponchatoula * Essie Mae Johnson, 65, Albany * Virgie Mack, 78, Hammond * Alonzo William McCrory Jr., 27, Ponchatoula * Korie Lynn Newman, 20, Ponchatoula * Verna Scanlan Magee, 78, Hammond SHAWN L. BANKSTON JAYESS, MISS.-Shawn L. Bankston, 35, died Thursday, April 12, 2001, in Grenada, Miss., as the result of an automobile accident. She was a pharmacy honor student at Ole Miss University in Oxford, Miss. She was a native of Pumpkin Center. Survivors include her mother, Nancy Hill Bankston, Pumpkin Center; grandmother, Lola Bankston Willoughby, Tickfaw; sister, Rebecca Bankston Willoughby, Tickfaw; brother, Philip Woodrow Banskton III, Pumpkin Center; fiance, Darryl Hewitt, Jayess, Miss.; step- daughters, Jessie and Jenna Hewitt, Jayess; and two nieces. She was preceded in death by her father, Philip "Bo" Bankston Jr.; grandparents, Philip W. Bankston Sr., Louis R. Hill and Mary "Mimi" Hill. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home in Hammond on Monday from 6-9 p.m. and Tuesday from 8-10 a.m. The Revs. Randy Davis and Khris Chenier will conduct the funeral at the funeral home chapel, with burial at Trinity Baptist Church Cemetery. SAM CARTER JR. Sam Carter Jr., 87, died Thursday, April 12, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. He was a retired construction worker and a native of Clinton, LA. Survivors include his daughters, Vivian Williams, Mildred Lewis, Audry Mae Cade, Donnah Hawkins and Sarah Carter; and his sons, Sam Carter III, James Carter, Bruce Carter, John Carter and Robert Carter. Visitation will be at N.A. James Funeral Home in Hammond on Monday from 4-8 p.m. The funeral will be at the funeral home chapel Tuesday at 10 a.m., with burial at Holly Gardens Cemetery. JAMES AUGUSTIN HAYDEL JR. PONCHATOULA-James Augustin Haydel Jr., 89, died Thursday, April 12, 2001, at Landmark Living Center in Hammond. He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II and a native of LaPlace. Survivors include his wife, Rita Kugler Haydel, Ponchatoula; daughters, Judith Haydel Guillaume, Baker, and Kathleen Haydel Pellichino, Hammond; a son, James A. Haydel III, Ponchatoula; a sister, Ida Methurne, Norco; 10 grandchildren and one great- grandchild. He was preceded in death by three sisters, Marie Thibodeaux, Noelie Louque and Alice Dupree. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home in Ponchatoula on Monday from 8:30-10:45 a.m. The Dominican Fathers will conduct the funeral Monday at St. Joseph Catholic Church at 11 a.m., with burial at Parklawn Memorial Gardens. ESSIE MAE JOHNSON ALBANY-Essie Mae Johnson, 65, died Wednesday, April 11, 2001. She was a housewife and a native of Sandyhook, Miss. Survivors include three sons, Charlie I. Johnson, Sammy Fair and James E. Fair, all of Hammond; two sisters, Willie Mae Cole and Emma D. Harvey, both of Livingston; two brothers, Howard Bernette, Albany, and Gregrey Pearie, Denham Springs; 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Visitation will be at Richardson Funeral Home today from 6-8 p.m. The Rev. Robert Smith will conduct the funeral Monday at St. mary Baptist Church in Livingston at 11 a.m., with burial at Holly Gardens Cemetery. VIRGIE MACK Virgie Mack, 78, died Wednesday, April 11, 2001. She was a housewife and a native of Bogalusa. Survivors include her husband, Henry Mack, Hammond; eight daughters, Willie Ann Moore, Willie Mae Straughter, Bessie Mae Hunter, Janice M. West, Jerry D. Bridges, Gwendylon Moore, all of Hammond, Patsy Lean Greely, Natalbany, and Karen Ann Dillon Ulloa, Richmond, California; three sisters, Vernie Mae Mackelfin, Bogalusa, Virgie Lee Williams, New Orleans, Willie Mae Joshua of Bogalusa; a brother, Walter Ross Sr., New Orleans; 31 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. Visitation was held Saturday at Richardson Funeral Home. The funeral was held Saturday at Zion Apostolic Church. Dismissal is Tuesday at Greenlawn Cemtery at 11 a.m. ALONZO WILLIAM McCRORY JR. PONCHATOULA-Alonzo William "Willie" McCrory Jr., 27, died Friday, April 13, 2001, in Ponchatoula. He was a 1991 graduate of Ponchatoula High School, an alligator farmer and a member of the Louisiana Alligator Association. He was a native of Ponchatoula. Survivors includehis parents, Alonzo "Lonnie" and Diane Lambert McCrory, both of Ponchatoula, and his maternal grandmother, Bernice Bardwell Lambert, also of Ponchatoula. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Paul Lambert and his paternal grandparents, William and Stella Joiner McCrory. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely and son Funeral Home in Ponchatoula on Tuesday from 6-10 p.m. and on Wednesday from 8-11 a.m. The Rev. Glynn Fendlason will conduct the funeral at the chapel home, with burial at Parklawn Memorial Gardens. KORIE LYNN NEWMAN PONCHATOULA-Korie Lynn Newman,20, died Friday, April 13, 2001, in Ponchatoula. She was a native of Ponchatoula. Survivors include her son, Tyler Scott Newman, Ponchatoula; her mother, Judy W. Nance, Ponchatoula; her father, Chester Newman, Lake Charles; three sisters, Lindsay Brescher and Sarah Limberg, both of Ponchatoula, and Amanda Poolson, New Orleans; her maternal grandmother, Patsy Warren, Ponchatoula; her maternal grandfather, G.A. Warren, Washington; her paternal grandmother, Lois E. Newman, Ponchatoula; and her maternal great-grandmother. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandfather, Troey G. Newman. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home in Ponchatoula on Tuesday from 6-10 p.m. and on Wednesday from 8-11 a.m. The funeral will be held at the funeral home chapel Wednesday at 11 a.m. VERNA SCANLAN MAGEE Verna Scanlan Magee, 78, died Friday, Apri; 13, 2001, at her residence in Hammond. She was a former senior vice president of First Guaranty Bank, the founder and chief executive officer of Southeast National Bank, a retired member of the Board of Directors of Hancock Bank and a member of the Round Table Club of Hammond, Kappa Rho Social Sorority, Habitat for Humanity and was a Sunday school teacher and vestry member at Grace Memorial Episcopal Church. Survivors include a daughter, Verna Sue Magee Bollin, Hammond; a son, H. Doyle Magee Jr., Covington; and a grandson. She was preceded in death by her husband, H. Doyle Magee and a grandson. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home in Ponchatoula on Monday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The Rev. Paul Bailey will conduct the funeral at the funeral home chapel Mondat at 2 p.m., with burial at Greenlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to Grace Memorial Episcopal Church, 100 W. Church St., Hammond, La., 70401; and North Oaks Hospice, P.O. Box 2668, Hammond, La. 70404. April 16, 2001 * Verna Scanlan Magee, 78, Hammond * Charles Laguin Meador, 72, Hammond * Karen Palmintier Simmons, 53, Loranger VERNA SCANLAN MAGEE Verna Scanlan Magee, 78, died Friday, April 13, 2001, at her home. She was a former senior vice president of First Guaranty Bank, founder and chief executive officer of Southeast National Bank, retired member of the board of directors of Hancock Bank, a member of the Round Table Club of Hammond, Kappa Rho Social Sorority, Habitat of Humanity and a member of Grace Memorial Episcopal Church where she served as a Sunday School teacher and on the vestry. She is survived by one daughter, Verna Sue Magee Bollin of Hammond; one son, H. Doyle Magee Jr. of Covington; and one grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, H. Doyle Magee; one grandchild; and her parents, Thomas Stephen and Willie Fields Scanlan. The Rev. Paul Bailey will conduct the funeral today at 2 p.m. at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond. Burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery, Hammond. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Grace Memorial Episcopal Church, 100 W. Church St., Hammond 70401. CHARLES LAGUIN MEADOR Charles Laguin Meador, 72, died Sunday, April 15, 2001, at his home. He was a native of Stratton, Miss., a member of the Louisiana Bookman's Association, Louisiana High School Athletic Association and a original member of The Club at Southeastern Louisiana University. He is survived by his wife, Betty Foster Meador of Hammond; one son, Charles Timothy Meador of Murphy, N.C.; two daughters, Gwen Meador Meyers of Hammond, and Elizabeth "Boo" Meador Sullivan of Mandeville; one sister, Joan Crenshaw of Newton, Miss.; one brother, Donald Meador of Pearl, Miss.; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Mary Payne Meador. Visitation will be Tuesday from 9 a.m. until the funeral at 11 at Grace Memorial Episcopal Church, Hammond, conducted by the Rev. Paul Bailey. Burial will be in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Grace Memorial Episcopal Church, 100 W. Church St., Hammond 70401. Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. KAREN PALMINTIER SIMMONS LORANGER - Karen Palmintier Simmons, 53, died Saturday, April 14, 2001, at her home. She was a native of Hammond. She is survived by her husband, William "Bill" W. Simmons of Loranger; one daughter, Kay Lynn Kinton of Seattle; two sons, Doc Wyatt Simmons of Ft. Meyers, Fla., and John James Simmons of Lawton, Okla.; one grandchild; and one brother, Doug Palmintier of Kentwood. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Maxine Palmintier. A memorial service will be Tuesday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 5 p.m. until the funeral at 7. Private burial will be at Lanier Cemetery, Loranger. April 17, 2001 * Lawrence Alexander, 81, Hammond * Charles Laguin Meador, 72, Hammond * Emma Jenning Rankins, 98, Marrero * J.W. Strickland, 70, Osyka, Miss. * Susie Matthews Travis, 91, Greensburg LAWRENCE ALEXANDER Lawrence Alexander, 81, died Thursday, April 12, 2001. He was a U.S. Army veteran and a minister. Survivors include his wife, Pearlean Alexander of Amite; four daughters, Irma Helton of San Francisco, Regina Wall of Ponchatoula, Lorraine Lowere of San Diego, and Mavis Ard of Hammond; two brothers, Willie Alexander and Walter Harris, both of Hammond; two stepdaughters, Virginia Watson of Hammond and Faye Watson of Greensboro, N.C.; two stepsons, Emmitt and Lence Watson, both of San Francisco. His parents preceded him in death. Visitation is today until 3 p.m. at Westside COGIC, Ponchatoula, and at from 4 to 7 p.m. at First Church COGIC, Hammond. Samuel Richardson will conduct the funeral at 7 tonight at First Church COGIC. Dismissal will be Wednesday at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Holly Gardens, Hammond. CHARLES LAGUIN MEADOR Charles Laguin Meador, 72, died Sunday, April 15, 2001, at his home in Hammond. A native of Stratton, Miss., he was a member of the Louisiana Bookman's Association and the Louisiana High School Athletic Association. He was a original member of The S Club at Southeastern Louisiana University. Survivors include his wife, Betty Foster Meador of Hammond; a son, Charles Timothy Meador of Murphy, N.C.; two daughters, Gwen Meador Meyers of Hammond and Elizabeth "Boo" Meador Sullivan of Mandeville; a sister, Joan Crenshaw of Newton, Miss.; a brother, Donald Meador of Pearl, Miss.; and five grandchildren. His parents, Virgil and Mary Payne Meador, preceded him in death. The Rev. Paul Bailey conducted the funeral today at 11 a.m. at Grace Memorial Episcopal Church, Hammond. Burial was in the church cemetery. Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, was in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Grace Memorial Episcopal Church, 100 W. Church St., Hammond, 70401. EMMA JENNINGS RANKINS MARRERO - Emma Jennings Rankins, 98, died Tuesday, April 10, 2001, at her residence in Marrero. She was a native of Amite. She is survived by three sons, Guy Rankins Jr. of Amite, Robert Rankins of Chicago and Willie Rankins of Buras; two daughters, Margaret Rankins of Marrero and Leontine Dilworth of New Orleans; a sister, Lucille Freeman of Amite; 28 grandchildren; and 31 great-grandchildren; and 10 great-great-grandchildren. The wake will be tonight at 8 at Heavenly Star Baptist Church, Marrero. The Rev. Frank Garrett will conduct the funeral Wednesday at noon at Greater Trinity AME Church, Amite. Burial will be Durbin Cemetery, Independence. J.W. STRICKLAND OSYKA, Miss. - J.W. Strickland, 70, died Sunday, April 15, 2001, at his home in Osyka. He was a native of Rocky Hill, Miss., and had worked as a dairy farmer. Survivors include a son, Johnny Lee Strickland of Osyka; a grandchild; two great- grandchildren; three sisters, Alma Wilchire and Katie Dickerson, both of Hazelhurst, Miss., and Bettie Catalino of Hammond; and a brother, Morris Strickland of Greenlaw, Miss. His wife, Mary B. Strickland, preceded him in death as did his parents, Walter and Carrie H. Strickland, and numerous brothers and sisters. Visitation will be today from 5 to 9 p.m. at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, and Wednesday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 11. The Rev. Milton Kliesch will conduct the service, and burial will be in Osyka Cemetery. SUSIE MATTHEWS TRAVIS GREENSBURG - Susie "Mama Susie" Matthews Travis, 91, died Sunday, April 15, 2001, at St. Helena Parish Nursing Home, Greensburg. Survivors include six daughters, Lillie Mae McClendon, Easter Sue Lloyd and Naomi Travis, all of Greensburg; Annie Mae Bellazar of Independence, Fannie McMorris of Roseland and Idella Fisher of Amite; four sons, Isaac Travis Sr., Henry Travis Jr. and George Travis, all of Greensburg; and Fred Travis of Roseland; grandchildren; and great- grandchildren. Visitation will be Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. at MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home on State Highway 1042 in Greensburg. The Rev. Ranches Hall will conduct the funeral Saturday at 11 a.m. at Venable Chapel AME Church, off State Highway 43 in Liverpool, and burial will be in Black Creek Cemetery, Greensburg. April 18, 2001 * Noemy Sanchez Bedo, 67, Folsom * Leila Brayden Benton, 80, Tickfaw * Chris Helen Valentine Frey, 74, Shreveport * Mary Good Resetar, 82, Albany * Nora Helg Travis, 68, Hammond NOEMY SANCHEZ BEDO FOLSOM - Noemy Sanchez Bedo, 67, died Tuesday, April 17, 2001. She was a native of Heredia, Costa Rica. She is survived by her husband, Istvan Bedo; and her children, Joseph Bedo, Rosalie Blades, Lydia Bedo-Ball, Istvan Bedo Jr. and Sony Brewer. She was preceded in death by her parents, Juan John and Lydia Chanto Sanchez; and siblings, Flor, Eliecer, Francisco and Carlos Sanchez; 13 grandchildren and two great- grandchildren. Visitation will be Thursday from 9:30 a.m. until a funeral Mass at noon at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Folsom. Burial will be in Pinecrest Memorial Gardens, Covington. E.J. Fielding Funeral Home, Inc., Covington, is in charge. LEILA BRAYDEN BENTON TICKFAW - Leila Brayden Benton, 80, died Tuesday, April 17, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Hammond. She is survived by one daughter, Patricia Simeon of Homer; one son, Randy Benton of Tickfaw; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Leon H. Benton; her parents, Thomas Henry and Sarah Ella Dunnington Brayden; two sisters, Millie Wager and Eunice Benton; and one brother, Harold Brayden. Visitation will be Wednesday from 6 to 10 p.m. at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, and Thursday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 11. Burial will be in Antioch Cemetery. CHRIS HELEN VALENTINE FREY SHREVEPORT - Chris Helen Valentine Frey, 74, died Saturday, April 14, 2001, after a lengthy illness. She was born in Baton Rouge, and a longtime resident of Amite. She was a resident of the Summerfield Retirement Community, an active member of First Methodist Church and served as a school teacher for many years. She was a also a member of Lakeview Methodist Church and Willow Point Baptist Church. She is survived by one son, Douglas F. Frey; one daughter, Helen Frey Breen; one brother, Fredrick D. Valentine; and four grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lester O. Valentine and Ada Floyd Valentine; one sister, Adah Valentine Foulks; and one brother, L.O. "Bud" Valentine Jr. A memorial service was this morning in Rose-Neath's Southside Chapel, Shreveport. Burial will be in Amite Memorial Gardens Saturday at 10 a.m. The Rev. Randy Foulks will give a brief eulogy. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Grace Home, 1035 Margaret Place, Shreveport 71101, or to the church or charity of one's choice. MARY GOOD RESETAR ALBANY - Mary Good Resetar, 82, died Tuesday, April 17, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Martin, W.V., and a member of St. Margaret Catholic Church. She was a retired nurse's aid with the Hammond Developmental Center and a strawberry farmer. She is survived by four daughters, Diana Resetar of Albany, Jeanette Higginbotham of Livingston, Mary Gaeta and Carolyn Severio, both of Albany; two sons, Ted Resetar of Rockwall, Texas, and Donald Resetar of Albany; one sister, Julia Lenander of Michigan; eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Resetar; one son, Raymond Resetar; four brothers, Sam, Louis, Frank and Joe Good; and one sister, Elizabeth Coffelt. Visitation will be today from 6 to 9 p.m. at Geisler Funeral Home, Albany, with a 7 p.m. vigil, and Thursday from 8 to 9:45 a.m. until the funeral at 10 a.m. at St. Margaret Catholic Church. The Rev. Leo Guillot will conduct the service, and burial will be in the church cemetery. NORA HELG TRAVIS Nora Helg Travis, 68, died Tuesday, April 17, 2001, at her home in Hammond. She was a native of Ponchatoula. Survivors include a son, William Sand, Hammond; two sisters, Lorraine Bergeron, Wadesboro, and Annie Schillings, Ponchatoula; and three grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Woodrow Travis, and several brothers and sisters. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home in Ponchatoula Friday from 9 a.m. until the funeral at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Wadesboro Cemetery. April 19, 2001 * Edward Barcelona, 1, Hammond * Hazel Burton, 90, Independence * Shirley Coleman, 56, Hammond * Joseph B. Jenkins, 65, Bedico * Vincent J. Mercante Sr., 77, Hammond * Donald Mullen, 75, Ponchatoula * Dorothy W. Nevines, 77, Hammond * Lucille Richardson, 59, Abita Springs * Arcola Spurlock Thompson, 89, Hammond * Nora Helg Travis, 68, Hammond EDWARD BARCELONA Edward Barcelona, 1, died Sunday, April 15, 2001, at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami. He is survived by his mother, Janice Marie Barcelona and his father, Edward Davis. The funeral will be Friday at 11 a.m. at N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, and burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery, Hammond. HAZEL BURTON INDEPENDENCE - Hazel Burton, 90, died Friday, April 13, 2001, at Dixon Medical Center, Covington. She was a native of Tangipahoa. She is survived by two sons, Lenvis Burton of Independence, and Lynn Burton of Houston; three daughters, Bertha and Velma Jackson, both of Hammond, and Hazel Hurst of Greensburg; 50 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren and 30 great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, two sons, one sister and her husband. Visitation will be Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite. The Rev. James Harvey will conduct the funeral Saturday at 11 a.m. at Soldier of Jesus Christ Church, Independence. Burial will be at Brown Quinn Cemetery, Tangipahoa. SHIRLEY COLEMAN Shirley Coleman, 56, died Monday, April 16, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She is survived by her husband, Clifton Coleman of Hammond; one daughter, Shemon Vaughn of Smyrna, Ga.; two sons, Clyde Coleman of Broadview, Ill., and Sebastian Coleman of Dubuque, Iowa. The Rev. Andrew L. Jackson will conduct the funeral Saturday at 11 a.m. at Mount Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, Albany. MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home, Inc., Denham Springs, is in charge. JOSEPH B. JENKINS BEDICO - Joseph B. "J.B." Jenkins, 65, died Tuesday, April 17, 2001. He was a native of Covington. He is survived by his wife Betty Blow Jenkins; one daughter, Mitzie Quave; two sons, David and Russell Jenkins; 11 grandchildren and one great-grandchild; siblings, Charlie Jenkins, Floyd Jenkins, Shelby Jenkins, Ella Mae Johnson, Oscellie Frelioux, Ray Jenkins, Avie Riles, Clyde Jenkins, Evelyn Petree, John Jenkins; and many stepbrothers and stepsisters. He was preceded in death by one brother, Joe Jenkins; and his parents, Jessie and Inie Fussell Jenkins. Visitation will be today from 6 to 9 p.m. at Bedico Church of God and Friday from 9 a.m. until the funeral at 10. Burial will be in Morse Cemetery, Bedico. E.J. Fielding Funeral Home, Inc., Covington, is in charge. VINCENT J. MERCANTE SR. Vincent J. Mercante Sr., 77, died today at Our Lady of the Lake Hospital, Baton Rouge. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 2952 of Hammond, and was a veteran of World War II. He is survived by his wife, Jennie Rizzuto Mercante of Hammond; five children, Nathalie M. Causey of Zachary, and Francis, Joseph, Rosalyn and Vincent J. Mercante Jr., all of Hammond; 15 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and one brother, Emile Mercante Sr. of Baton Rouge. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Josephine S. Mercante; and two brothers, Henry and Ignatius Mercante. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond. DONALD MULLEN PONCHATOULA - Donald Mullen, 75, died Tuesday, April 17, 2001, after at fall at his home. He was a native of New Orleans. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II and the Korean conflict. He was a retired Merchant Marine officer and a member of Master, Mates and Pilots Union. He is survived by his wife, Bernel Bordelon-Mullen of Ponchatoula; one daughter, Elizabeth Cortez of Ponchatoula; five grandchildren; and one sister, Una Mae McCrossen of Harahan. He was preceded in death by one sister, Lois Stuber; and his parents, Una and Clayton Mullen. A memorial service was held this morning at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Ponchatoula. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association. Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, was in charge. DOROTHY W. NEVINES Dorothy W. Nevines, 77, died Monday, April 16, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She is survived one stepdaughter, Janice Nevines; and one stepbrother, Willie Martin Andrews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Nevines; her parents; two half brothers; and one half sister. Visitation will be today from 1 to 3 p.m. at N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond. The funeral will be at 8 p.m. at First Bethel Methodist Church. Dismissal will be Friday at 11 a.m., and burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery, Hammond. LUCILLE RICHARDSON ABITA SPRINGS - Lucille Richardson, 59, died this morning at St. Tammany Parish Hospital, Covington. She is survived by three sisters, Catherine Gaines and Alice Richardson, both of Abita Springs, and Charlotte James of Covington; and one brother, Charlie Richardson Jr. of Abita Springs. Visitation will be at N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, Friday from 1 to 3 p.m. The Rev. J. Clark will conduct the funeral at Rose Hill Baptist Church, Covington, at 8. Burial will be in Holtonville Cemetery, Madisonville. ARCOLA SPURLOCK THOMPSON Arcola Spurlock Thompson, 89, died Monday, April 16, 2001, at Belle Maison Nursing Home. She was a native of Pike County, Miss. She is survived by three sisters, Olevia Coleman of New Orleans, Rosa Felder and Hannah Barnes, both of McComb, Miss.; three brothers, Jessie Spurlock Jr., I.H. Spurlock and D.B. Spurlock of New Orleans; one grandchild and one great-great grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jessie and Emma Spurlock; six sisters, three brothers, one son and one daughter. Visitation will be Friday from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite. The Rev. Frank A. Davis III will conduct the funeral at 11 a.m. at Little Bethel Baptist Church, Amite, and burial will be in Butler Cemetery. NORA HELG TRAVIS Nora Helg Travis, 68, died Tuesday, April 17, 2001, at her home in Hammond. She was a native of Ponchatoula. Survivors include a son, William Sand, Hammond; one daughter, Louella White of Kenner; two sisters, Lorraine Bergeron, Wadesboro, and Annie Schillings, Ponchatoula; and three grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Woodrow Travis, and several brothers and sisters. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home in Ponchatoula Friday from 9 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. The funeral will be at 11 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Ponchatoula, and burial will be in Wadesboro Cemetery. April 20, 2001 * Alton C. Ard, 83, Montpelier * Otera Thelma Pierce Blades, 95, Kentwood * Leo Johnson Sr., 76, Hammond * Baxter William McMorris, 74, Tickfaw * Vincent J. Mercante Sr., 77, Hammond * Susie Matthews Travis, 91, Hammond * Nora Helg Travis, 68, Hammond ALTON C. ARD MONTPELIER - Alton C. "Stud" Ard, 83, died Wednesday, April 18, 2001, at his home. He was a security guard and a World War II U.S. Army veteran. He is survived by one daughter, Dolores A. Casanova of Amite; one son, Alton L. Ard of San Antonio; one sister, Lillian Lewis of Montpelier; four grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Poirier Ard; and seven brothers and sisters. Visitation will be today until the funeral at 3 p.m. at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite. The Rev. W.S. Manchester will conduct the service. Burial will be in Montpelier Cemetery. OTERA THELMA PIERCE BLADES KENTWOOD - Otera Thelma Pierce Blades, 95, died Thursday, April 19, 2001, at Kentwood Manor Nursing Home. She was a housewife and a resident of Spring Creek Community in Tangipahoa. She is survived by one daughter, Elaine B. Williams; and 11 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lynn Elias Blades; three sons, James Dalton, Winfred Alva and Bobby Lynn Blades; three sisters, Hollen Pierce, Edna P. Breland and Ruby P. Guy; four brothers, Ashford "Boots," Devon "Duby," Norman "Pete" and Roy Pierce. Visitation will be Saturday at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 11 Danny Smith will conduct the service, and burial will be in Spring Creek Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Spring Creek Baptist Church Challenge Fund, 72937 Highway 1061, Kentwood 70444; Louisiana Baptist Children's Home, P.O. Box 4196, Monroe, 71211; or a charity of one's choice. LEO JOHNSON SR. Leo Johnson Sr., 76, died Monday, April 16, 2001, in Kenner. He was a native of Terrell, Texas, a U.S. Army veteran, and a barber. He is survived by six daughters, Cynthia J. Hogan and Naomi Davis, both of New Orleans, Sandra Johnson of Dallas, Jackie Moye of Suican, Calif., Ella Shepard of Kansas City, Mo.; three sons, Leo Johnson Jr. of New Orleans, Rickie Johnson of LaPlace and Tim Johnson of Greensburg; four sisters, Clara B. Ellinton of Bastrop, Willie Kate Miles of Dallas, Carrie Mae Williams of Shreveport and Yvonne Thoraton of Rayville; two brothers, Joseph Johnson of Dallas and Edward Earl Johnson of Houston; 30 grandchildren, 49 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, one sister, one brother and one grandchild. Visitation will be today from 6 to 9 p.m. at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond. James Jackson will conduct the funeral Saturday at 11 a.m. at First Church of God in Christ, Hammond, and burial will be in Holly Gardens. BAXTER WILLIAM McMORRIS TICKFAW - Baxter "Billie" William McMorris, 74, died Thursday, April 19, 2001, at Medical Center of Louisiana at New Orleans. He is survived by three daughters, Brenda Anthony and Margie Tucker, both of Folsom, and Ethel McMorris of Uneedus; three sons, Tommie McMorris of Tickfaw, Baxter McMorris Jr. of Folsom, and Curtis Varnado of Bush; four sisters, Annie Gordon, Gracie Sawyer and Myrtle Owens, all of Ponchatoula, and Evelyn Strain of Abita Springs; three brothers, Harry McMorris of Dallas, Jimmy McMorris of Denham Springs and Adam McMorris of Ponchatoula; 20 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Ethel McMorris; two sisters, Geraldine Scott and Lula Mae Badeux; and two brothers, Archie and Sonny McMorris. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 11, Charles Bigner officiating. Burial will be in Rainey Chapel Cemetery, Folsom. VINCENT J. MERCANTE SR. Vincent J. Mercante Sr., 77, died today at Our Lady of the Lake Hospital, Baton Rouge. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 2952 of Hammond and was a veteran of World War II. He is survived by his wife, Jennie Rizzuto Mercante of Hammond; five children, Nathalie M. Causey of Zachary, Francis, Joseph and Vincent J. Mercante Jr., all of Hammond, and Rosalyn Heider of Hammond; 15 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and one brother, Emile Mercante Sr. of Baton Rouge. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Josephine S. Mercante; and two brothers, Henry and Ignatius Mercante. Visitation is today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 10 p.m. with a 7 p.m. vigil prayer service and Saturday from 8 until 10:30 a.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be at 11 a.m. at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Hammond. Entombment will be at Rose Memorial Mausoleum. SUSIE MATTHEWS TRAVIS Susie "Mama Susie" Matthews Travis, 91, died Sunday, April 15, 2001, at St. Helena Parish Nursing Home, Greensburg. She is survived by seven daughters, Louella White of Kenner, Lillie Mae McClendon, Easter Sue Lloyd and Naomi Travis, all of Greensburg, Annie Mae Bellazer of Independence, Fannie McMorris of Roseland and Idella Fisher of Amite; four sons, Isaac Travis Sr., Henry Travis Jr. and George Travis, all of Greensburg, and Fred Travis of Roseland; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The Rev. Ranches Hall will conduct the funeral Saturday at 11 a.m. at Venable Chapel AME Church, Liverpool. Burial will be in Black Creek Cemetery, Greensburg. MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home, Denham Springs, is in charge. NORA HELG TRAVIS Nora Helg Travis, 68, died Tuesday, April 17, 2001, at her home in Hammond. She was a native of Ponchatoula. She is survived by one son, William Sand, Hammond; two sisters, Lorraine Bergeron, Wadesboro, and Annie Schillings, Ponchatoula; and three grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Woodrow Travis; and several brothers and sisters. The funeral was this morning at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Ponchatoula, and burial was in Wadesboro Cemetery. Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, was in charge. April 22, 2001 * Irene Margarete Paintner Arretteig, 58, Ponchatoula * Lionel Carter, 48, Hammond * Telvina Vicknair Day, 94, Killian * Roma Locke Peterman, 88, Hammond * Eloise Phillips, 72, Kentwood * Mary Ruth Traylor IRENE MARGARETE PAINTNER ARRETTEIG PONCHATOULA - Irene Margarete Paintner Arretteig, 58, died Thursday, April 19, 2001, at her home. She was a native of Munich, Germany. Survivors include her husband, John B. Arretteig Jr., Ponchatoula; two daughters, Summer Faith Arretteig, Ponchatoula, and Carol Jean Arretteig, Natchitoches; one son, John L. Arretteig, Ponchatoula; four sisters, Johnna Bell, Lubbock, Texas, Maria Luis Evans, North Brookfield, Mass., Johnna Perez, Spain, and Ottelia Hannig, Germany; and one brother, Karl Heinz Paintner, Germany. She was preceded in death by one daughter, Debbie Arretteig; and her parents, Otto and Margarete Keil Paintner. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely and Son, Ponchatoula, Monday from 8 until 9:45 a.m. The Rev. Justin Kauchak will conduct a Mass of Christian burial at 10 at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial will be in Ponchatoula Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a memorial to St. Joseph Catholic Church, P.O. Box 368, Ponchatoula 70454. LIONEL CARTER Lionel Carter, 48, died at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond on Friday, April 20, 2001. Survivors include four sisters, Deloris C. Moss, Norma J. Carter, Ethel C. Corbin and Gloria C. Brown, all of Hammond; and three brothers, Bernard Carter, John C. Carter and Alvin L. Carter, all of Hammond. Visitation will be at N.A. James Funeral Home today from 4 until 8 p.m. The Rev. Louis Carter will conduct the funeral Monday at East Side Pentecostal Church at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Mount Olive Cemetery, Hammond. TELVINA VICKNAIR DAY KILLIAN - Telvina Vicknair Day, 94, died Friday, April 20, 2001, at St. Francis Cabrini Hospital, Alexandria. She was a native of Head of Island. Survivors include two sons, Marvin Day, Baton Rouge, and Buddy Day, Alexandria; seven grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Cecil M. Day; two brothers, Jacob and Louis Vicknair; and two sisters, Vick George and Jenny LeBourgeois. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely and Son, Hammond, tonight from 6 to 9, and Monday from 8 a.m. Monday the funeral at 10. The Rev. Buddy Day will conduct the service, and burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Woodland Park Baptist Church, 1909 J.W. Davis Drive, Hammond 70403, or Killian Baptist Church, 27994 state Highway 22, Springfield 70462. ROMA LOCKE PETERMAN Roma Locke Peterman, 88, died Friday, April 20, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Taylor County, Ga., and a housewife. Survivors include three daughters, Elizabeth Breezee, Hammond, Nadine Lambert, Amite, and Frances Smart, Roseland; three sons, Jerry Peterman, Butler, Ga., Charles Peterman, Zachary, and Ronnie Peterman, Springfield; 16 grandchildren, 26 great- grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter. She was preceded in death by her husband, L.E. Peterman Jr.; a son, Clifford Peterman; two granddaughters and one great-grandson; one sister, Pauline Locke; one brother, Eugene Locke; and her parents, Cliff and Susie Locke. The Rev. Casey Tingle conducted the funeral Saturday, and burial was in Amite Memorial Gardens. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, was in charge. ELOISE PHILLIPS KENTWOOD - Eloise Phillips, 72, died Thursday, April 19, 2001, at Hood Memorial Hospital, Amite. A native of Pike County, Miss., she was a dairy farmer. Survivors include one daughter, Debbie Delitha Phillips, Kentwood; one son, Pierce Madison Phillips, Georgia; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; two sisters, Inex Blades, Kentwood, and Marguerite Bethany, Baton Rouge; and three brothers, T.C. Slaven, Whyman Slaven and John Slaven, all of Kentwood. She was preceded in death by her husband, William Pierce Phillips; two sons, Ronnie Ray and Jimmy Dale Pierce; and one brother, Junior Slaven. The Rev. Otis Hope will conduct the funeral today at 2 p.m. at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood. Burial will be in Tangipahoa Cemetery, Tangipahoa. MARY RUTH TRAYLOR SPRINGFIELD - Mary Ruth Traylor, 63, died Friday, April 20, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Springfield. Survivors include five sisters, Susie Hutchinson, French Settlement, Mary Lindsey, Springfield, Annie Avents, Montpelier, Lillie Hernandez, Pumpkin Center, and Bethy Reynolds, Ponchatoula; and three brothers, J.S. Soley, Hammond, Jessie S. Soley, Springfield, and Albert Anthony, Florida. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jessie James Soley and Mary Agnes Payne Soley; one sister, Ruby McAllister; and one stepbrother, Roy Anthony. Visitation will be today at Geisler Funeral Home Chapel, Albany, from 10 a.m. until the funeral at 2 p.m. Burial will be in Twin Pines Cemetery, Holden. April 23, 2001 * Lucien Frazier Bailey Jr., 59, Springfield * Mary Stassi Forrest, 87, Ponchatoula * John C. Hyde, 25, Kentwood * Louise Miller, 75, Ponchatoula * Sam Edward Raney, 84, Slidell LUCIEN FRAZIER BAILEY JR. SPRINGFIELD - Lucien "Bud" Frazier Bailey Jr., 59, died Sunday, April 22, 2001, at his home. He is survived by two brothers, Adrian Bailey of Hammond and Roger Dale St. Cyr of Albany; four sisters, Joan and Cheryl McKinney, Marian Meyers and Brenda Bailey, all of Springfield; and one half sister, Brenda Chism, West Memphis, Ark. He was preceded in death by his father, Lucien F. Bailey Sr.; mother and stepfather, Elizabeth Bazile St. Cyr and Marion St. Cyr; and one brother, Tommy Bailey. Visitation will be today from 6 to 10 p.m. at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, and Tuesday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 10. The Rev. Billie Kennedy will conduct the service, and burial will be in Carter Cemetery. MARY STASSI FORREST PONCHATOULA - Mary Stassi Forrest, 87, died, Sunday, April 22, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula. JOHN C. HYDE KENTWOOD - John C. Hyde, 25, died Sunday, April 22, 2001, near Kentwood, in a one- car accident. He was a native of Jefferson and a truck driver. He is survived by his mother, Shirley Dykes of Kentwood; his father, Nathan D. Hyde of Duson; one sister, Wanda Smith of Chesbrough; two brothers, Dewayne Hyde of Kentwood and Daniel Hyde of Duson; three stepsisters, Stacey Hollier of Lafayette, Regina Murray and Leanne Dykes, both of Chesbrough; and his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. A.C. Graham of Amite. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Isaac and Lillian Hyde. Visitation will be today from 5 to 9 p.m. at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, and Tuesday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 11. The Rev. Otis Hope will conduct the service, and burial will be in Hyde Cemetery, Chesbrough. LOUISE MILLER PONCHATOULA - Louise Miller, 75, died Wednesday, April 18, 2001. She is survived by one daughter, Sharon Carter of Ponchatoula; one sister, Lucille Hill of New Orleans; and one brother, Henry Miller Jr. The Rev. Calvin Brown conducted the funeral Saturday at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond. Burial was in Ponchatoula Cemetery. SAM EDWARD RANEY SLIDELL - Sam Edward Raney, 84, died Thursday, April 19, 2001, at Slidell Memorial Hospital of natural causes. He was a native of Folsom, and a minister with the Church of God of Prophecy in Pearl River. He is survived by his wife, Julia Raney; three children, Boby Raney of Ponchatoula, and Henry Raney and Brenda Hoover, both of Slidell; one brother, Ezekiel Berceygay of Folsom; one sister, Henrietta Piere of Franklinton; eight grandchildren and seven great- grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Ida Raney; four brothers and one sister. Henry Raney conducted the funeral Saturday at the Church of God of Prophecy, Pearl River. Burial was in Rainey Cemetery, Folsom. Williams Funeral Home, Pearl River, was in charge. April 24, 2001 * William Nelson Creel, 52, Robert * Mary Stass Forrest, 87, Ponchatoula * Norma Sloane Gomilla, 78, Hammond * Estelle Sanderson Hammons, 80, Kentwood * Douglas Dean Owens Jr., 19, Holden * Albert Newman Williams, 81, Montpelier * Norma Lee Henkel Yoss, 76, Urbana, Ill WILLIAM NELSON CREEL ROBERT - William "Bill" Nelson Creel, 52, died Sunday, April 22, 2001, at his home. He is survived by his mother, Doris Cox Creel of Robert; his wife, Frankie Wilkerson Creel of Forrest, Miss.; two daughters, Frances Jean Creel of Homewood, Miss., and Glenda Doris Creel of Forrest; one brother, James Creel of Denham Springs; two sisters, Barbara Creel Meyers of Covington and Marilyn Creel Cooper of Robert; and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, the Rev. Bobby Creel; one brother, Robert Earl Creel; and his grandparents, Robert and Lillie Cox and Murphy and Lillie Creel. Visitation will be today from 6 to 10 p.m. at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, and Wednesday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 10. Burial will be in Shady Grove Cemetery, Amite. MARY STASS FORREST PONCHATOULA - Mary Stass Forrest, 87, Ponchatoula, died Sunday, April 22, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Wadesboro. She is survived by two daughters, Mary Ann Landry and Jeanette Richard, both of Ponchatoula; one son, Broxie P. Forrest of Ponchatoula; one sister, Katherine Gregoire of Ponchatoula; 12 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and three great-great- grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Broxie P. Forrest; one sister, Mollie Flannagan; one brother, Peter J. Stass Jr.; and her parents, Peter and Katherine Ellenberger Stass. Visitation will be Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. until 1:45 p.m. at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula. The Rev. Justin Kauchak will conduct the funeral at 2 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial will be in Wetmore Cemetery, Ponchatoula. NORMA SLOANE GOMILLA Norma Sloane Gomilla, 78, died Monday, April 23, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond. ESTELLE SANDERSON HAMMONS KENTWOOD - Estelle Sanderson Hammons, 80, died Sunday, April 22, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Galveston, Texas, and a housewife. She is survived by two sons, Virgil J. "Butch" Hammons Jr. of Winter Park, Fla., and Ronald S. "Ronnie" Hammons of Kentwood; one stepdaughter, Judy H. Aleman of Pearl River; seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Virgil J. Hammons; her parents and two sisters. Visitation will be Wednesday at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 10 a.m. until the funeral at 2 p.m., the Rev. Dennis Mitchell officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood. DOUGLAS DEAN OWENS JR. HOLDEN - Douglas Dean "Doug" Owens Jr., 19, died Sunday, April 22, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond, following a 4-wheeler accident in Livingston Parish. He was a member of Holden Pentecostal Church, Holden. He is survived by his father and stepmother, Douglas Dean Sr. and Lillie Owens of Holden; his mother, Lydia Renee McDonald Owens of Livingston; five brothers, Christopher Owens, Blaine Forbes, Corey Smith, Arron Smith and Rodger Granger, all of Holden; and his paternal grandparents, Johnny C. and Ella Mae Owens of Holden. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Dooley and Pearl McDonald. The Rev. Jimmy Sassar, the Rev. David L. Blackwell and the Rev. Ray Hudson conducted the funeral this morning at Seale Funeral Home, Livingston. Burial was at Holden Pentecostal Church Cemetery, Holden. ALBERT NEWMAN WILLIAMS MONTPELIER - Albert Newman Williams, 81, died Sunday, April 22, 2001, at St. Helena Parish Hospital, Greensburg. He was a dairy farmer and a U.S. Army veteran of World War II. He is survived by one daughter, Karen Williams of Albany; three sons, John Newman Williams of Monroe, David Michael Williams of Holden and Patrick Dixon Williams of Albany; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his wife, Gladys Jewel Brecheen Williams; one brother, Elmus Williams; two sisters, Athalea Sibley and Vesta Williams; and his parents, Jim and Lutie Williams. The Rev. John Williams, the Rev. Eddie Morgan and the Rev. Charles Scott will conduct the funeral today at 2 p.m. at Montpelier United Methodist Church. Burial will be in Montpelier Cemetery, Montpelier. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, is in charge. NORMA LEE HENKEL YOSS URBANA, Ill. - Norma Lee Henkel Yoss, 76, died Monday, April 23, 2001, at her home. She was a native of Hammond and was a biochemist at the University of Illinois Burnside Research Laboratory, Urbana, Ill. She was also a member of the American Chemical Society. She is survived by her husband, Kenneth Myron Yoss; three daughters, Ann Marie Yoss of Sandwich, Ill., Barbara Ruth Yoss of Indianapolis and Roberta Hursthouse of Naperville, Ill.; four sisters, Eldweiss Townsend and Verna Clara Brecheen, both of Baton Rouge, Laine Fisher of Kenner and Ruth Cheesman of Beaumont, Texas; and one grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank Henkel and Nenie Ruth Thompson; two brothers and one sister. The Rev. Paul Allen and Vera Duncanson will conduct the funeral Thursday at 3 p.m. at First Mennonite Church, Urbana. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Urbana. Memorial contributions may be made to Provena Covenant Hospice Care Program, 1400 W. Park St., Urbana, Ill. 61801-9983. Renner-Wikoff Chapel, Urbana, is in charge. April 25, 2001 * Anna Victoria Peco Crocker, 91, Hammond * Chales Brody Devall, 22 months, Loranger * Norma Sloane Gomilla, 78, Hammond * Clarence Joseph Mollo Jr., 56, Slidell * Albert Newman Watts, 74, Ponchatoula ANNA VICTORIA PECO CROCKER Anna Victoria Peco Crocker, 91, died Tuesday, April 24, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond She is survived by one daughter, Mary Linda van Mullem of Hammond; two sisters, Janie Leto of New Orleans and Rose Zumo of Hammond; one brother, Nat Peco of Hammond; two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Peter Crocker; three brothers, Ralph, Peter J. and Ben Peco; and one sister, Mary Peco Coniglio. Visitation will be today from 6 to 10 p.m. at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, with a vigil at 7 and Thursday after 10:45 a.m. The Dominican Fathers will conduct the funeral at 11 a.m. at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Hammond. Burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery. CHARLES BRODY DEVALL LORANGER - Charles Brody Devall, 22 months, died Tuesday, April 24, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He is survived by his parents, Charles and Dana Loftice Devall of Loranger; grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Rick of Kentwood, Mr. and Mrs. Danny Loftice of Franklinton and Mr. and Mrs. Wilton Devall Jr. of Loranger; great-grandparents, Bobbie Jean Gaines of Amite and Gertrude Devall of Loranger; and great-great grandparents, Virena J. Crowe of Franklinton and Jessie Mae Gaines of Amite. He was preceded in death by his great-grandfathers, Raymond Gaines and Wilton Devall Sr.; and great-great-grandfathers, Ocie Crowe and Milderd Gaines. Visitation will be today from 5 to 10 p.m. at Crain Funeral Home, Franklinton, and Thursday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 10. Gene Richards, the Rev. Dale Varnado and the Rev. Calvin Crowe will conduct the service, and burial will be in Crowe Cemetery. NORMA SLOANE GOMILLA Norma Sloane Gomilla, 78, died Monday, April 23, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She is survived by her husband, Frank J. Gomilla Sr. of Hammond; five sons, Thomas Sloane of Chicago, John Sloane of Tinley Park, Ill., Michael Edward McCoy of Littleton, Colo., Robert Jefferson McCoy of Lockport, Ill., and Paul Stanley McCoy of Phoenix; one daughter, Marianne McCoy Lingenfelter of Gridley, Kan.; and four grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Grover and Myra Burgamy Sims. Visitation will be Thursday from 9 a.m. until the funeral at 1 p.m. at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond Burial will be in Rose Memorial Cemetery, Hammond. CLARENCE JOSEPH MOLLO JR. SLIDELL - Clarence Joseph Mollo Jr., 56, died from a heart attack Monday, April 23, 2001, at Slidell Memorial Hospital. He was a native of Tangipahoa Parish, a U.S. Army Vietnam veteran, former insurance agent, a welder and a member of Immanuel Baptist Church. He is survived by the his wife, Rae F. Mollo; one son, Trey Joseph Mollo of Slidell; one daughter, Clarisse M. Mollo of Covington; and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Agnes Perrilloux and Clarence J. Mollo Sr.; and a stepfather, Milton Jerome Sticker. Visitation will be today from 7 to 10 p.m. at Honaker Funeral Home, 1751 Gause Blvd., West Slidell, and Thursday at Immanuel Baptist Church, 62160 Airport Road, Slidell, from 9:30 a.m. until the funeral at 10:30. The Rev. Charles New and the Rev. Robert Herrin will conduct the service, and burial will be in Sticker Cemetery, Bedico. ALBERT NEWMAN WATTS PONCHATOULA - Albert Newman Watts, 74, died Tuesday, April 24, 2001, at Lallie Kemp Regional Medical Center, Independence. He was a native of Hammond, a U.S. Army veteran of World War II, a member of the Disabled American Veterans and a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 4874 of Ponchatoula. He is survived by his wife, Dolores Theriot Watts of Ponchatoula; one daughter, Susan Watts McAlister of Amite; four sons, Albert "Al" Watts and Eddie Watts, both of Ponchatoula, and David and Mark Watts, both of Amite; two sisters, Dorothy Woodard and Violet Traylor, both of Ponchatoula; three brothers, L.J. Watts, Milton "Bob" Watts and John "Wesley" Watts, all of Ponchatoula; 11 grandchildren and eight great- grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Mary Clayton Watts; five brothers, Leslie, Norman "Pete," Johnny, Clarence and Morris Watts. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, from 6 to 10 p.m. with a 7 p.m. vigil service and Thursday from 8 until 9:45 a.m. The Rev. Justin Kauchak will conduct a Mass of Christian burial at 10 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Ponchatoula. Burial will be in Ponchatoula Cemetery. April 26, 2001 * Milford Norwood Baham, 69, Independence * John Taylor Cook Sr., 57, Tangipahoa * Ronald Nicholas DiSabato, Hammond * Lucinda Jackson Hookfin, 80, Kentwood * Ethel Alma Hill Kinchen, 82, Springfield * Seeburn Perry Robinson, 81, Natalbany * Lois Maiaine Ferrill Watson, 80, Ponchatoula MILFORD NORWOOD BAHAM INDEPENDENCE - Milford Norwood Baham, 69, died Tuesday, April 24, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a U.S. Army veteran. He received the United Nations Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and the Korean Service Medal. He is survived by one brother, Delmas P. Baham of Killian. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ann Guidry Baham; his parents, Millard and Mae Perry Baham; and one brother, Clifton Baham. Visitation will be Friday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 11 at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond. Burial will be in Bankston Cemetery, 4th Ward. JOHN TAYLOR COOK SR. TANGIPAHOA - John Taylor Cook Sr., 57, died Sunday, April 22, 2001, at Hood Memorial Hospital, Amite. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy B. Cook of Amite; four daughters, Stacie Henderson, Denise Johnson and Pamela Cook, all of Amite, and Stephanie Cyprian of Hammond; two sons, John Taylor Cook Jr. of El Paso, Texas, and Roger Cook of Amite; five sisters, Annie Bell Mearidy of California, Ora Lee Cook, Bernadine Cook, Jessie Mae Cook and Mildred Cook, all of Tangipahoa; and 16 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and five sisters. Visitation will be Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. at Angelic Funeral Home, Roseland, and Saturday from noon until the funeral at 1 p.m. at Brown Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, Tangipahoa. Burial will be in Quinn-Brown Cemetery, Tangipahoa. RONALD NICHOLAS DiSABATO Ronald Nicholas "Nick" DiSabato, died Friday, April 20, 2001, at his sister's home in Hammond. He was a native of Massachusetts but lived in Hammond for the past 10 months. He is survived by his wife, Jenne Kolh DiSabato; his mother, Barbara DiSabato, both of Massachusetts; one daughter, Lauren DiSabato of Gainesville, Fla.; two sons, Michael DiSabato of Ponchatoula and Nicholas DiSabato of Hammond; two sisters, Monica Greer of Hammond and Laura Hurley of Massachusetts; two brothers, Richard and Robert DiSabato of Massachusetts; and one step-grandchild. He was preceded in death his father, Rocco DiSabato; his grandparents, Albert and Isobel Dunphy and Nunzio and Laura DiSabato. The Rev. Chris Eggleton will conduct a memorial Mass May 5 at 9:30 a.m. at Holy Ghost Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to North Oaks Hospice, P.O. Box 2668, Hammond 70404. Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. LUCINDA JACKSON HOOKFIN KENTWOOD - Lucinda "Cindy" Jackson Hookfin, 80, died Sunday, April 22, 2001. She was a homemaker. She is survived by four daughters, Barbara Hookfin, Ann Armstrong and Judy Hookfin, all of Kentwood, Sylvia Grayson of New Llano; five sons, Jimmie, Dennis, Ronald, Robert and Bennie Hookfin, all of Kentwood; one sister, Lillian Brown of New Orleans; 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Visitation will be Friday from 2 to 5 p.m. at Crain and Sons Funeral Home, Franklinton, and at Deliverance Temple Church of God In Christ, 11427 Dillon Road, Kentwood, from 6 to 9 p.m. The funeral will be Saturday at 11 a.m. at the church. Burial will be in Hookfin Cemetery. ETHEL ALMA HILL KINCHEN SPRINGFIELD - Ethel Alma Hill Kinchen, 82, died Wednesday, April 25, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She is survived by two daughters, Virginia Kinchen Simonds of Kenner, and Diana Kinchen Dupey of Metairie; four sons, Norman and Donnie Kinchen, both of Springfield, W.D. Kinchen of Greensburg and Russell Kinchen of Slidell; three stepsons, Vernon Kinchen Jr. of Marrero, Leander Kinchen of Abita Springs and Urban Kinchen of Springfield; one sister, Alma Hill Anthony of Holden; 17 grandchildren and 12 great- grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Vernon L. Kinchen Sr.; and her parents, George and Alma Rogers Hill. Visitation will be today from 6 to 10 p.m. at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, and Friday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 11. Burial will be in Springfield Cemetery. SEEBURN PERRY ROBINSON NATALBANY - Seeburn Perry "S.P." Robinson, 81, died Wednesday, April 25, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He is survived by his wife, Helen Smith Robinson of Natalbany; and one sister, Ruby Robinson Williams of Bogalusa. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters and brothers. Visitation will be today from noon until the funeral at 2:30 p.m. at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, conducted by the Rev. Rodney Taylor. Burial will be in Parklawn Memorial Gardens, Hammond. LOIS MAIAINE FERRILL WATSON PONCHATOULA - Lois Maiaine Ferrill Watson, 80, died Wednesday, April 25, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a registered nurse and a former employee with Touro Infirmary in New Orleans and with New Orleans Public Health. She is survived by two daughters, Heather Lois Watson Windham of Little Rock, Ark., and Sharon Elizabeth Watson Guitreau of Ponchatoula; and five grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur John Watson; and one brother, Marlin Ferrell. Visitation will be Friday from 10 a.m. until the funeral at 1 p.m. at Harry McKneely Funeral Home, Ponchatoula. The Bob Deich will conduct the service, and burial will be in Garden of Memories Cemetery, Jefferson Parish. April 27, 2001 * Lois Lauzervich Boysen, 75, Maurepas * Ronald Nicholas DiSabato, 53, Hammond * Joseph Earl Ebrecht, 90, Ponchatoula * Lawrence E. Epstein, 61, Tickfaw * Ruth Durnin Herbert, 87, Hammond * Wilhelmina Jones, 59, Metairie * Melvin Dennis King, 48, Hammond * Lucius Lee, 73, New Orleans * Lillie Vernell McCray Muse, 76, Hammond * Robert J. Richardson, 82, Hammond LOIS LAUZERVICH BOYSEN MAUREPAS - Lois Lauzervich Boysen, 75, died Wednesday, April 25, 2001, at her home. A former lifelong resident of New Orleans, Boysen was an executive secretary with G & M Marine, New Orleans. Survivors include three sisters, Ella Mae L. Vampran and Iris Lauzervich, both of Maurepas, and Doris L. Hill, Carpentersville, Ill. She was preceded in death by her parents, Peter and Sydonie Hoover Lauzervich; her husband, Orval Ray Boysen; one brother, Peter Lauzervich Jr.; and one sister, Rita L. Felder. The funeral was this afternoon at St. Stephens Catholic Church, Whitehall, with burial in Whitehall Cemetery. Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home, Hammond, was in charge. RONALD NICHOLAS DISABATO Ronald Nicholas "Nick" DiSabato, 53, died April 20, 2001, at his sister's home in Hammond. He was a native of Massachusetts, but lived in Hammond for the past 10 months. He is survived by his wife, Jeanne Kohl DiSabato; his mother, Barbara DiSabato, both of Massachusetts; one daughter, Lauren DiSabato, Gainesville, Fla.; two sons, Michael DiSabato, Ponchatoula, and Nicholas DiSabato, Hammond; two sisters, Monica Greer, Hammond, and Laura Hurley, Massachusetts; two brothers, Richard and Robert DiSabato, both of Massachusetts; and one step-grandchild. He was preceded in death his father, Rocco DiSabato; his grandparents, Albert and Isabel Dunphy and Nunzio and Laura DiSabato. The Rev. Chris Eggleton will conduct a memorial Mass May 5 at 9:30 a.m. at Holy Ghost Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to North Oaks Hospice, P.O. Box 2668, Hammond 70404. Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. JOSEPH EARL EBRECHT PONCHATOULA - Prominent Ponchatoula businessman Joseph Earl Ebrecht, 90, died Thursday, April 26, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. A New Orleans native, Ebrecht was the founder of Ponchatoula Feed and Seed. Survivors include two daughters, Ann B. Ebrecht, Narberth, Pa., and Martha J. Ebrecht, Ponchatoula; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jewell Littleton Ebrecht; one brother, Peter Ebrecht Jr.; and one sister, Olga Ebrecht Ullrich. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, Saturday from 10 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. The Dominican Fathers will conduct the funeral Saturday at 1 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Ponchatoula. Burial will be in Ponchatoula Cemetery. Donations may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church or to the Ponchatoula Volunteer Fire Department. LAWRENCE E. EPSTEIN TICKFAW - Lawrence E. Epstein, 61, died Thursday, April 26, 2001, at his home. He was a native of Grand Rapids, Mich., and a member of the Unitarian Church of Hammond. Survivors include his wife, LeAnne Epstein, Tickfaw; two daughters, Sara Beth Epstein, Big Rapids, Mich., and Rhonda Ann Nickless, Tickfaw; two sons, Gregory Allen Epstein, Kentwood, and Kirk Nickless, St. Francisville; his father, Martin Epstein, Chicago; one sister, Bertie Morse, Arizona; and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother. A memorial service will be Wednesday at 4 p.m. at Geisler Funeral Home Chapel, Hammond, with a gathering afterward at LeAnne Epstein's residence. RUTH DURNIN HERBERT Ruth Durnin Herbert, 87, died Wednesday, April 25, 2001, at Colonial Oaks Living Center in Metairie. She was native of St. Helena Parish, a longtime resident of Hammond and a member of First Presbyterian Church in Hammond. Survivors include two daughters, Anna H. Farrell, Springfield, Va., and Joan H. Murchison, Decatur, Ga.; one son, Jack Durnin Herbert, River Ridge; eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Farley Herbert. Visitation will be at the Geisler Funeral Home chapel, Hammond, Saturday night from 6 to 8 and Sunday from 1 to 2 p.m. The funeral, to be officiated by D. Cameron Murchison, will be at First Presbyterian Church, Hammond, Sunday at 3 p.m. Burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery, Hammond. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Presbyterian Church or the Ginger Ford Habitat for Humanity. WILHELMINA JONES METAIRIE - Wilhelmina Jones, 59, died Monday, April 23, 2001, at her home. She was a native of Metairie. Survivors include her husband, Sheaffeus Jones; her father, Louis Anderson, LaPlace; one daughter, Eva Jones Nelson, LaPlace; two sons, Tyrone Jones, New Orleans, and Louis Jones, LaPlace; one sister, Leona Conerly, New Orleans; eight brothers, Walter Anderson, Norco; Fredrick, Richard, Leroy, Roland and Clarence Anderson, all of LaPlace, Raymond Anderson, Garyville, Lawrence Anderson, New Orleans; and five grandchildren. Visitation will be Saturday at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, Reserve, from 10 a.m. until the funeral at 11, and burial will be at St. Peter Cemetery, Reserve. N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. MELVIN DENNIS KING Melvin "Pee Wee" Dennis King, 48, died Thursday, April 26, 2001. He was a native of Denham Springs. Survivors include one son, John Reese "J.R." King, Baton Rouge; three sisters, Gloria D. King, Denham Springs, Vicki Comeaux, Stevenson, Ala., Kathy Mitchell, Watson; and one brother, Charles Mike, Albany. He was preceded in death by his father, John "Sidney" King; one brother, Sidney "Darrell" King; and his grandparents, Elvin L. "Sleepy" and Mary B. Efferson and John "Wesley" King and Leila P. King. Visitation will be at Seale Funeral Home, Denham Springs, tonight from 5 until 9 and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. until the funeral at 10. Burial will be in Pine Grove Methodist Church Cemetery, Pine Grove. Donations may be made to Pine Grove Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 632, Pine Grove 70453. LUCIUS LEE NEW ORLEANS - Lucius Lee, 73, died Friday, April 20, 2001, at the Medical Center in New Orleans. He was a native of Tickfaw and a police officer. He is survived by seven daughters, Geraldine L. Young, Betty L. Cryer, Linda Mongilla, Verlia Revish, Lucy Austin and Estelle Farriel, all of Hammond, and Maxine Lee, Natalbany; four sons, Lucuis Lee Jr. and Clearance Lee, both of Hammond, Richard Daniels, McComb Miss., and Johnathan Cryer, New Orleans; one sister, Eloris Williams Austin, Avondale; and one brother, Nathaniel Lee, Providence, R.I. He was preceded in death by two sisters, two brothers and his parents. Visitation is today from 5 to 9 p.m. at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond. The funeral will be Saturday at 11 a.m. at Saint James AME Church, Hammond. Burial will be in Holly Garden Cemetery, Hammond. LILLIE VERNELL McCRAY MUSE Lillie Vernell McCray Muse, 76, died Wednesday, April 25, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a retired educator having served as a teacher and a principal. She was also a member of the Order of Eastern Star, Garden Club, Grambling Alumni Association (Martha Adams Chapter) and the Tangipahoa Parish Retired Teachers Association. She is survived by four daughters, Pamela Brown, Hammond, Cheryl Bell and Carla Davis, both of Mesquite, Texas, and Jacklyn Mattison, Irmo, S.C.; two sons, Albert Dennis III, Grambling, and Charles Muse, Hammond; one brother, Leon McCray, Hammond; 13 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Samella and Moses McCray Sr.; her husband, Charlie Muse; daughter, Kimberly; brothers, Moses Jr., Eugene, Raymond and Alex; sisters, Carolyn and June. Visitation will be today from 4 to 9 p.m. at St. Paul Baptist Church, Hammond. The Rev. Larry Cross will conduct the funeral Saturday at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery, Hammond. N.A. James Funeral Home is in charge. ROBERT J. RICHARDSON Robert J. Richardson, 82, died Monday, April 23, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a logger and a native of Brookhaven, Miss. He is survived by his wife, Jurlee Richardson; four daughters, Martha Ann Washington, Rhonda Johnson and Rose Warren, all of Independence, and LaToya Jackson, Hammond; eight sons, Carl and Dale Foster, both of Amite, Robert Richardson, Independence, Eugene Warren, Natalbany, John Carter Sr., Durham, N.C., Bruce Carter, Robert Carter and Corey Jackson, all Hammond; one brother, M.C. Richardson, Independence; 35 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dunk E. and Julia Lenior Richardson; and brothers, Jessie Evans, Oscar, Luther, Dunk E. Jr., H.C., R.D. and W.L. Richardson. Visitation will be today from 5 until the funeral at 7:30 p.m. at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond. Dismissal will be Saturday at 11 a.m. at Rosehill Baptist Church, Brookhaven, Miss. Burial will be in Rosehill Cemetery, Brookhaven. April 30, 2001 * Brandon W. Buras, 22, Montpelier * Kathleen Puma Chaucer, 52, Ponchatoula * Josie Lee Hookfin, 91, Franklinton * Lillie Vernell McCray Muse, 76, Hammond * Phyliss Marie Monistere, 49, Hammond * William Byron Smith, 48, Wilmer BRANDON W. BURAS MONTPELIER - Brandon W. Buras, 22, died Friday, April 27, 2001, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge, from injuries he sustained during a bull riding contest in Gonzales. He was a native of St. Tammany Parish and was attending Southeastern Louisiana University on a rodeo scholarship. He was a senior majoring in biology/pre-med. He was to be inducted into the "13" Club, was president of the SLU Rodeo Association, vice president of Delta Omega Alpha, a member of Cowboys for Christ and a member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. Southeastern officials said he was not participating in any university event when the accident occurred. Survivors include his mother, Catherine B. Buras, Montpelier; his father, Al Buras, Amite; his brother, Trey Buras, Portales, N.M.; and his fiance, Mary L. LeBlanc, Prairieville. The Rev. Eddie Morgan conducted the funeral this morning at Pine Grove United Methodist Church, and burial was in Pine Grove Cemetery. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, was in charge. KATHLEEN PUMA CHAUCER PONCHATOULA - Kathleen Puma Chaucer, 52, died Saturday, April 28, 2001, at her home. She was a native of Hammond, co-owner, secretary and treasurer of Chaucer Financial Service, American Credit, Hammond, City Credit, Ponchatoula, American Credit, Covington, and Villa Roma Mini Storage of Hammond and Ponchatoula. Survivors include her husband, William J. Chaucer Jr., Ponchatoula; a son, William Bradley Chaucer III, Hammond; a daughter, Cindy Chaucer Spears, Hammond; her parents, Guy and Mary Russo Puma, Hammond; two brothers, Mike and Larry Puma, both of Hammond; and two sisters, Rosemary Furca, Hammond, and Antionette Skiffington, Virginia Beach, Va. She was preceded in death by a brother, Guy Puma Jr. Visitation is tonight from 6 to 10 at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, with a 7 p.m. vigil service and Tuesday from 8 to 9:45 a.m. The Rev. Chris Eggleton will conduct a Mass of Christian Burial at Holy Ghost Catholic Church at 10, and burial will be in Rose Memorial Cemetery. JOSIE LEE HOOKFIN FRANKLINTON - Josie Lee Hookfin, 91, died Tuesday, April 24, 2001, at Riverside Medical Center, Franklinton. Survivors include two sons, Narthis Banks and Milton Banks, both of Elkhart, Ind.; two sisters, Edna Ewing, Hammond, and Christella James, Bogalusa; 15 grandchildren and four great-grandchilden. The Rev. Cecealine Tate conducted the funeral this morning at Magee's Temple Church of God in Christ, and burial was in St. James Cemetery. Crian and Sons Funeral Home, Franklinton, was in charge. LILLIE VERNELL McCRAY MUSE Lillie Vernell McCray Muse, 76, died Wednesday, April 25, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a retired educator having served as a teacher and a principal. She was also a member of the Order of Eastern Star, Garden Club, Grambling Alumni Association (Martha Adams Chapter) and the Tangipahoa Parish Retired Teachers Association. She is survived by four daughters, Pamela Brown, Hammond, Cheryl Bell and Carla Davis, both of Mesquite, Texas, and Jacklyn Mattison, Irmo, S.C.; two sons, Albert Dennis III, Grambling, and Charles Muse, Hammond; one sister, Cecelia Sanders, Hammond; one brother, Leon McCray, Hammond; 13 grandchildren and four great- grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Samella and Moses McCray Sr.; her husband, Charlie Muse; daughter, Kimberly; brothers, Moses Jr., Eugene, Raymond and Alex; sisters, Carolyn and June. The Rev. Larry Cross will conduct the funeral Saturday, and burial was in Greenlawn Cemetery, Hammond. N.A. James Funeral Home was in charge. PHYLISS MARIE MONISTERE Phyliss Marie Monistere, 49, died Friday, April 28, 2001, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a member of Holy Ghost Catholic Church. Survivors include her husband, Ronnie Monistere, Hammond; a daughter, Bridget Monistere Balado, Hammond; a son, Brandon Monistere, Hammond; her mother, Ann Sciortino, Hammond; three sisters, Janet Milazzo, Hammond, Frances Mashon, Independence, and Carol Gray, Tickfaw; and one granddaughter. She was preceded in death by her father, Charles Vincent Sciortino; and a brother, Joe Sciortino. The funeral was this morning at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, and burial was in Rose Memorial Cemetery, Hammond. Geisler Funeral Home, Hammond, was in charge. WILLIAM BYRON SMITH WILMER - William Byron Smith, 48, died Saturday, April 28, 2001, at his home. He was a native of Columbia, Miss., a supervisor with WST Electric in Franklinton and a member of Wilmer Baptist Church. Survivors include his wife, Debra Ann Smith, Wilmer; a son, Kevin Byron Smith, Sumrall, Miss.; two daughters, Aleshia Jones, Sumrall, and Lori Annette Smith, Wilmer; three brothers, James Smith, Philadelphia, Miss., and Noel and Scott Smith, both of Columbia; three sisters, Gwendolyn Brambaugh, Raleigh, N.C., Gloria Belk, Kokomo, Miss., and Marty Fortenberry, Foxworth; and one grandson. Visitation will be tonight from 5 to 9 at Crain Funeral Home, Franklinton, and Tuesday from 10 a.m. until the funeral at 1 p.m. Richard Magee and Everett Broome will conduct the service, and burial will be in the Wilmer Baptist Church Cemetery.