Obituaries from THE HAMMOND DAILY STAR, October 2003; Hammond, Tangipahoa Parish, LA. Submitted to the USGenWeb Archives by Don Johnson, Oct, 2003 ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://usgwarchives.net/la/lafiles.htm ************************************************ October 01, 2003 * Richard Crawford Crotwell Sr., 46, Kentwood * Robert Lee McLeod, 73, Hammond RICHARD CRAWFORD CROTWELL SR. KENTWOOD - Richard Crawford Crotwell Sr., 46, died Monday, Sept. 29, 2003, in Sandstone, W.V. He was a native of New Orleans and a laborer for H.R.L. Contracting. He is survived by his wife, Cathy F. Crotwell of Kentwood, one son, Robert Crotwell of Kentwood; one daughter, Regina Crotwell of Kentwood; two sisters, Barbara Troulliet of Belle Chase and Darlene Wactor of Amite; four brothers, George Pipher of Mississippi, Karry Boheman and Willie Berger, both of Kentwood, and Robert Pipher of Gretna; and his father, Willie Berger of Kentwood. He was preceded in death by his son, Richard C. Crotwell Jr.; and his mother, Thelma Crotwell. Visitation will be today at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 5 to 10 p.m. with Mike Agnello conducting a vigil service at 7:30. Visitation will also be held Thursday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 11. The Rev. Jack Nutter and the Rev. Lynn Martin will officiate. Burial will be in Lebo Cemetery, Chesbrough. ROBERT LEE MCLEOD Robert Lee McLeod, 73, a native of Mississippi, died Sunday, Sept. 21, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He is survived by his son, Robert W. McLeod of Liberty, Miss.; two daughters, Wanda McLeod of Independence and Missy Harper of Hammond; two sisters, Donnis Granger and Shirley Sawyer; five brothers, Johnny, Eugene, Harold, Carl and "Red" McLeod; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Ernie Mae McLeod; two sons, James and Ernest McLeod; one sister, Norma Faye McLeod; and his mother, Ethel McLeod Shelby. The Rev. Gary Dennis conducted the funeral Monday. Geisler Funeral Home, Hammond, was in charge. October 02, 2003 * Charity Nelson Hess, 88, Greensburg * Rayne Breanna Faith Bonds Monestere, 4 months old, Baptist * Joseph Pierre, 82, Ponchatoula * Marian Lois Torrens, 79, Tampa, Fla. * Demarcus Lee Williams, 2, Hammond CHARITY NELSON HESS Charity Nelson Hess, 88, died Sunday, Sept. 28, 2003, at Belle Maison Nursing Home. She was a native of Greensburg and a member of St. James AME Church, Hammond. A salute to her was published in January of 1981 in The Hammond Vindicator. She is survived by one sister, Louise Nelson of Hammond. She was preceded in death by her husband, Edgar Hess; and her parents, Dan Nelson and Sebell Montgomery Nelson. Visitation will be Friday at N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, from 4 to 9 p.m. The Rev. Mack C. Hurst will conduct the funeral Saturday at Greater St. James AME Church, Hammond, at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery, Hammond. RAYNE BREANNA FAITH BONDS MONESTERE BAPTIST - Rayne Breanna Faith Bonds Monestere, 4 months old, died Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2003, at her home. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced with Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond. JOSEPH PIERRE PONCHATOULA - Joseph Pierre, 82, died Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2003, at his home. He was a native of Covington. He is survived by six daughters, Gertie P. Whitaker, Elizabeth P. Treadwell, Jessie P. Watson, all of Ponchatoula, Josie P. Lewis and Sandra P. Moore, both of Hammond, and Addeline P. Dobb of Cincinnati, Ohio; six sons, Maurice and Thomas Pierre, both of Ponchatoula, Charles Pierre of Natalbany, Joseph M. Pierre of Folsom, Frank J. Pierre of Silver Creek, Miss, and Robert Pierre of Mandeville; 56 grandchildren, 42 great- grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, father and one son. Burial was today in Ponchatoula Cemetery. Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond, was in charge. MARIAN LOIS TORRENS TAMPA, Fla. - Marian Lois Torrens, 79, died Aug. 7, 2003. She attended Southeastern College and worked as a secretary at Henry's Lock and Key. Survivors include her husband, Oscar Torrens; her children, Clara Ann Stephens, Penny Stanton, Patricia Strauss, Edward Torrens, Frank Torrens, Tara Torrens and Jacqui Torrens; two sisters, Mildred Wooten and Beverly Pinion; 16 grandchildren and 24 great- grandchildren. Burial was in Garden of Memories Cemetery. Donations may be made in her memory to LifePath Hospice, 3010 W. Azeele St., Tampa, FL 33609. DEMARCUS LEE WILLIAMS Demarcus Lee Williams, 2, died Friday, Sept. 26, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He is survived by his father, Quincy Williams and Shalonda Williams, and two brothers, Kevin Williams and Quincy Williams Jr., all of Hammond. The funeral will be Friday at Emanuel Seventh Day Adventist Church, Hammond, at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Holly Gardens Cemetery. N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. October 03, 2003 * Rayne Breanna Faith "Monestere" Bonds, four months, Baptist * Otis Craig, 60, Hammond * Harold J. Wright, 82, New Orleans RAYNE BREANNA FAITH BONDS BAPTIST - Rayne Breanna Faith "Monestere" Bonds, four months, died Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2003, at her home. Survivors include her parents, Christopher and Toni Caples Bonds of Baptist; one sister, Alaina Velfan Marie Caples of Baptist; maternal grandparents, Bob and Mary Monestere Epperson of Hammond; paternal grandmother, Mary McBride of Alexandria; paternal grandfather, John Bonds of Alexandria; maternal great-grandparents, Tony C. and Velfan Henry Monestere of Baptist, and Joel and Ernestine Merrel Epperson of Hammond; paternal great-grandparents, Carl and Lou Anne Fortenberry Schulker, and Alvin Sr. and Billie Carter of Alexandria, all of Alexandria. Visitation will be Saturday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 9 a.m. until the funeral at 2 p.m. Burial will be in Rose Memorial Park Cemetery. OTIS CRAIG PONCHATOULA - Burial was today in Ponchatoula Cemetery for Otis Craig, 60, who died Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. The Rev. Gerald Cheatham conducted the funeral at Star Valley Baptist Church, Ponchatoula. He is survived by his wife, Barbara McGee Craig of Hammond; three daughters, Delena Addison of Ponchatoula, Katina Freeman of Amite, and Debra Craig of New Orleans; one son, Oliver Johnson of San Antonio, Texas; nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his mother, Mildred Craig; and his father, Oliver Craig. Angelic Funeral Home, Roseland, was in charge. HAROLD J. WRIGHT PONCHATOULA - Visitation will be Sunday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home in Ponchatoula from 6 to 9 p.m. for Harold J. Wright, 82, a native of New Orleans, who died Thursday, Oct. 2, 2003, at his home. He is survived by three sons, Harold Nassif of Houston, Ray and Kenneth Wright, both of Ponchatoula; one daughter, Susan Payton of Leona, Texas; seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruby Landry Wright; one daughter, Helen Ann Wright; his father, Waldo Wright; and step-father and mother, Harold and Helen Melancon McNeilly. Further visitation will be Monday at the funeral home beginning at 8 a.m. until the funeral at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, New Orleans. October 05, 2003 * Michael David Cox, 42, Roseland * Kathy Lynn Jones Reine, 39, Hattiesburg, MS * Robert Renter, 42, Baton Rouge MICHAEL DAVID COX ROSELAND - Michael David Cox, 42, died of heart failure Sunday, Sept. 14, 2003, at his home. He is survived by his two sisters, Betty Cox of Hammond and Diane Connell of Roseland, and a brother, Daniel Cox of Roseland. His parents, Percell Cox and Winnie Cox, and a brother, Wilton Cox, preceded him in death. A memorial service was held at the home of Diane Connell Sept. 16. KATHY LYNN JONES REINE HATTIESBURG, Miss. - Kathy Lynn Jones Reine, a 39-year-old housewife, died Thursday, Oct. 2, 2003 in Hattiesburg. She was a native of Independence and resident of Hattiesburg. Her survivors include three daughters, Brandy Hartfield of Hattiesburg and Jamie Lynn Reine and Jessica Renee Reine of Osyka, Miss.; a son, Justin Karl Jones of Osyka, Miss.; mother and stepfather, Bonnie and Fonzia Crayton of Osyka; stepmother Joan Jones of Amite; a sister, Judy Ranet Caveretta of Osyka; two brothers, Charles J. Jones of Independence and Adam Lee Crayton of Fort Bragg, N.C.; and a grandchild. Her father, Charles T. Jones, preceded her in death. Visitation will be at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, today from 10 a.m. until the Rev. Dave Hartman conducts the funeral at 2:30 p.m. Burial will be in Ford Cemetery, Independence. ROBERT RENTER BATON ROUGE - Robert Renter, 42, died Monday, Sept. 29, 2003, at his residence. Survivors include three daughters, Robbie Brooks, Iesha and Chole Ferdinand of Baton Rouge; two sons, Chris Ferdinand and Robert Renter Jr. of Baton Rouge; two sisters, Gilda Renter and Cassandra Renter Lucas of Baton Rouge; five brothers, Joseph Bell of Uneedus, Wilbert Bell and Jerry Renter of Baton Rouge, Alton Bell of Chicago and Donald Renter of Milan, Tenn.; and a grandchild. Visitation will be at Feltus-Lazard Memorial Church of God in Christ, Baton Rouge, today from 5 p.m. until the Rev. Samuel Richardson conducts the funeral at 7 p.m. A dismissal service will be held at the church Monday at 11 a.m. Burial will be at St. John Church Cemetery, Loranger. October 06, 2003 * Walter H. Corkern, 64, Hammond * Rosalie Ann Macheca Ernst, 66, New Orleans * Chester Lynn Estrada Jr., 44, Watertown, Tenn. * Henry Giluso Jr., 61, Hammond * Cleo W. Henry, 62, Amite * Dorothy Davis Mercier, 77, Hammond * Norman Earlo Stewart, 80, Gulfport, Miss. * Robert Marcellous Wingerter Jr., 63, Robert WALTER H. CORKERN Walter H. Corkern, 64, died Saturday, Oct. 4, 2003, at his home. He was a native of Franklinton, and professor emeritus of chemistry at Southeastern Louisiana University. He earned a bachelor's degree at Louisiana State University and attended the the University of Arkansas, where he earned a doctorate degree in chemistry. He was a teacher at SLU for 37 years before retiring in 2003 due to illness. He is survived by his wife, Linda Monk Corkern; his children, Michele Corkern and Stephen Corkern; his brother, Henry Earl Corkern; two sisters, Barbara Corkern Ray and Doris Corkern Hyde; and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Colbert and Rubye Givens Corkern; and one son, Jeffrey Corkern. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 9 p.m., and Tuesday from 8 a.m. until the service at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Fisher Methodist Church Cemetery, Richardson. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Walter H. Corkern Scholarship Fund, payable to Southeastern Development Foundation, SLU 10293, Hammond, LA 70402. ROSALIE ANN MACHECA ERNST NEW ORLEANS - Rosalie Ann Macheca Ernst, 66, died Friday, Oct. 3, 2003, at her home. She was a native of Pumpkin Center. She is survived by her husband, Kenneth J. Ernst; two daughter, Deborah A. Johnston and Laura E. Breaux; mother, Virginia Pecararo Macheca; one sisters, Frances Macheca Mariano; and four grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father, Tony Macheca. Visitation will be tonight from 7 to 10 at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, and Tuesday from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m. Mass will be conducted by the Rev. Mr. Leo Guillot at 11:30 a.m. at St. Margaret Catholic Church, Albany. Burial will be in the church cemetery. CHESTER LYNN ESTRADA JR. WATERTOWN, Tenn. - Chester Lynn Estrada Jr., 44, died Friday, Oct. 3, 2003, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville. He was a native o Magnolia, Miss., and restaurant cook. He is survived by his father, Chester Lynn Estrada Sr. of Belen, N.M.; one sister, Cheryl Passman of Nashville, Tenn.; one step-sister, Marissa Dassel of Nashville, Tenn.; step-grandmother, Audrey Estrada of N.C.; and grandmother, Mattie Matthews of Denham Springs. He was preceded in death by his mother, Rita Estrada; grandfather, Bert Matthews, grandmother, Ruth Andrews; step-grandfather, Andy Andrews; and grandfather, Rual Estrada. A graveside service conducted by the Rev. Larry Robertson was held today at noon at Pine Hill Cemetery, Arcola. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, was in charge. HENRY GILUSO JR. Henry Giluso Jr., 61, died Sunday, Oct. 5, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was survived by two daughters, Chrystal Giluso Thomas and Jennifer Giluso Strahan, both of Ponchatoula; one son, Henry Giluso III of Hammond; his mother, Myrtle Morgan Giluso of Hammond; three sisters, Annie Giluso Bennett of San Jose, Calif., Linda Giluso Armstrong and Eva Giluso Rosa of Hammond; and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Henry Giluso Sr.; one brother, Tom Carlos Giluso; and one sister, Rossie Overland. Visitation will be Tuesday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home Hammond, from 6 to 10 p.m., and Wednesday from 8 until the funeral at 10 a.m. conducted by the Rev. Melvin Adams. Burial will be in Hungarian Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Albany. CLEO W. HENRY AMITE - Cleo W. Henry, 62, died Saturday, Oct. 4, 2003, at Hood Memorial Hospital, Amite. He was retired from Exxon, and a supervisor for Hovensa in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Simmons Henry of Amite; one daughter, Annie Henry of Gonzales; one son, Todd Henry of North Hollywood, Calif.; one sisters, Darlene Rachal of Cary, N.C.; and one grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Annie Henry; and one brother, Retus Henry. Visitation will be today at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 to 9 p.m., and Tuesday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 10 a.m. conducted by the Rev. Emile Tosso. Burial will be in Kedron Cemetery, Amite. DOROTHY DAVIS MERCIER Dorothy Davis Mercier, 77, died today at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced with Geisler Funeral Home, Hammond. NORMAN EARLO STEWART GULFPORT, Miss. - Norman Earlo Stewart, 80, died Saturday, Oct. 4, 2003, at Armed Forces's Retirement Home, Gulfport. He was a native of Tickfaw, served the armed forces in World War II, Korea and Vietnam, retired in with rank of senior master sergeant and a survivor of the USS Chicago which sank in 1943. He was also a member of Joppa Temple of Biloxi, and Masonic Lodge 1060 of Baton Rouge. He is survived by two daughters, Barbara J. Stewart of San Antonio, Texas, and Valerie Stewart of Votaw, Texas; four sons, Red Stewart of Cedar City, Utah, Price and Nathan Stewart, both of Votaw, Texas, and Darrell Stewart of Bastrop, Texas; four sister, Hilda Stewart of Tickfaw, Rosemary Smith of Holden, Vivian Alvin of Independence, and Fayee Tate of Ponchatoula; three brothers. Sebron "Bo" Stewart of Ponchatoula, James Stewart of Tickfaw, and Davis Stewart of Hammond; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sebron and Clora Johnson Stewart; five brothers, Hosey, Claude, Carter, Elzey, and Valmond Stewart, and three infant brothers. Visitation will be today at New Haven Baptist Church from 6 to 9 p.m., and Tuesday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. Stanley Baham and the Rev. Carlan Sanders conducts the funeral t 10 a.m. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. ROBERT MARCELLOUS WINGERTER SR. ROBERT - Robert Marcellous Wingerter Jr., 63, died Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2003, of a heart attack at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a native of New Orleans, and a member of TCBA Bowling League. He was a corporal in the army. He is survived by his wife, Janet "Peanut" Lester Wingerter; four sons, Mark, Joseph, Troy and Robert "Rusty" M. Wingerter III; a daughter, Robin Wingerter; two brothers, Sidney and Wayne Wingerter; three sisters, Judy Kelley, Barbara LaChute and Peggy Ridge; and 14 grandchildren. Visitation will begin today from 5 p.m. at Westside Leitz-Eagan Funeral Home, 5101 West Bank Expressway, Marrero, until Tuesday from 8 a.m. until Mass at 9:30 a.m. Burial will be in Westlawn Park Cemetery. October 07, 2003 * Dorothy Davis Mercier, 77, Hammond * Peggy McKinney Shaffer, 61, Walker DOROTHY DAVIS MERCIER Dorothy Davis Mercier, 77, died Monday, Oct. 6, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a member of First Apostolic Tabernacle Church, Ponchatoula. She is survived by one brother, George D. Davis Sr. of Independence; one stepdaughter, Mari Lou Sullivan of Hammond; one granddaughter, two step- grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Mercier; one son, Gary Blount; one daughter, Susan Pyron; two brothers, Archie Davis and J.W. Davis; and one sister, Elsie Rogers. Visitation will be Tuesday at First Apostolic Tabernacle Church, Ponchatoula, from 6 to 9 p.m. and Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. until the funeral at 10. Burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery, Hammond. Geisler Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. PEGGY MCKINNEY SHAFFER WALKER - Burial was Monday at Greenoaks Memorial Park in Baton Rouge for Peggy McKinney Shaffer, 61. She died Friday, Oct. 3, 2003, at her home. She was a manager of Cracker Barrel Store in Port Vincent and a member of Park Forrest Baptist Church, Baton Rouge. She is survived by her husband, Carroll Shaffer of Walker; two daughters, Debbie Cassels of Denham Springs and Cindy Pierce of Baton Rouge; two sons, Billy Johnson and Donald McGregor Jr., both of Denham Springs; 14 grandchildren and seven great- grandchildren; a foster child, Geraldine Brien; two brothers, Jerry and Troy McKinney, both of Hammond; one half-sister, Sheila McKinney of Kentwood; and her mother, Margaret DeKerlegand of Hammond. She was preceded in death by one daughter, Tammy Torres; and her father, George T. McKinney. Greenoaks Funeral Home, Baton Rouge, was in charge. October 08, 2003 * James Edwin Martin, 85, Hammond * William Byrd Walker, 84, Hammond JAMES EDWIN MARTIN James Edwin Martin, 85, died Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2003, at his home. A native of Hammond, he earned degrees from John Hopkins University and Louisiana State University. He was a professor at Southeastern University from 1947 to 1981. He is survived by his wife, Mattie Lou Ware Martin of Hammond; one son, James Edward Martin of Hammond; one brother, Alfonse C. Martin of Jackson; and two half- sisters, Billie Jo Burchfield of Texas and Willine Martin of Mississippi. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Ester and Mellie Lee Alford Martin; one brother, Johnny Martin; and one sister, Dixie Martin. Visitation will be Thursday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 11 a.m. until the funeral at 2 p.m. Burial will be in Ponchatoula Cemetery. WILLIAM BYRD WALKER William Byrd Walker, 84, died Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2003, at Hammond Nursing Home. He was a native of Jayess, Miss., and a member of Happy Woods Church of God of The Abrahamic Faith. He is survived by his wife, Marie Landry Walker of Hammond; two sons, William W. Walker of Ocean Springs, Miss., and Charles G. Walker of Memphis, Tenn.; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. and Thursday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. Jeff Fletcher conducts the funeral at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in Holly Gardens Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Happy Wood Church of God Building Fund, 42418 S. Range Road, Hammond, LA 70404. October 09, 2003 * Minnie Fairman Buchanan, 91, Brookhaven, Miss. * Kenneth Wesley Creel, 63, Tickfaw * Helen Turnage Fayard, 77, Ponchatoula * Rachael O'Bear, 91, Hammond * Martha Hall Smiley, 87, New Orleans * Shannon Ward Tompkins, 18, Ponchatoula * Shelby Washington, 82, New Orleans MINNIE FAIRMAN BUCHANAN BROOKHAVEN, Miss. - Minnie Fairman Buchanan, 91, died Sunday, Oct. 5, 2003, at Haven Hall Health Care Center. She is survived by one sister, Eula Wyet of Petersburg, Va.; and one grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ben and Mollie Fairman; her husband, Enos Buchanan; one daughter, Carolyn L. Buchanan; five sisters and 12 brothers. Visitation will be Friday at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, from 5 to 9 p.m. The Rev. L.C. Williams will conduct the funeral Saturday at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, Brookhaven, Miss., at 11 a.m. Burial will be in the church cemetery. KENNETH WESLEY CREEL TICKFAW - Kenneth Wesley Creel, 63, died Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He is survived by his wife, Betsy Baham Creel of Tickfaw; two sisters, Beatrice Prine and Leona Threeton, both of Tickfaw; and one brother, Jerry Creel of Natalbany. He was preceded in death by his parents, J.C. and Allie Smith Creel; two sisters, Elizabeth Anthony and Louise Easley; and one brother, Jimmy Creel. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, from 6 to 9 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 10:30. Burial will be in St. Roch Cemetery, Husser. HELEN TURNAGE FAYARD PONCHATOULA - Helen Turnage Fayard, 77, died Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Ponchatoula. She is survived by her husband, Simpson Alden Fayard of Ponchatoula; two daughters, Judy Herring of Springfield and Billie Adams of Hammond; two sisters, Nella Mae Drude and Peggy Joyce McGraw, both of Ponchatoula; five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jerome Hirem and Juliana Berteau Turnage; one sister, Jackie Wainwright; one brother, Jerry Turnage; one son, Chester "Buddy" Joseph Hardin Jr.; and one granddaughter. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, from 6 to 9 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 10. Burial will be in Springfield Cemetery, Springfield. RACHAEL O'BEAR Rachael O'Bear, 91, died Monday, Oct. 6, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of White Castle. Visitation will be Friday from 1 to 4 p.m. at N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond. The Rev. Willie Gable Jr. will conduct the funeral Saturday at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery, Hammond. MARTHA HALL SMILEY NEW ORLEANS - Martha Hall Smiley, 87, died Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2003, at Lafon Nursing Home, New Orleans. She was a native of Magnolia, Miss. She is survived by one daughter, Christine Scott-Grisgby; one son, Edward L. Mayo Sr.; two sisters, Lillian E. Butler and Mary Louise Harness; two brothers, Charles Hall and Frank Hall Sr.; 12 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren. The Rev. Willie Gable Jr. will conduct the funeral Friday at 11 a.m. at Progressive Baptist Church, 1214 Robertson St., New Orleans. Burial will be in Holly Gardens Cemetery, Hammond. N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. SHANNON WARD TOMPKINS PONCHATOULA - Shannon Ward Tompkins, 18, died Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2003, in an automobile accident. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Harry Mckneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula. SHELBY WASHINGTON NEW ORLEANS - Shelby Washington, 82, died Sunday, Oct. 5, 2003, at his home. He was a native of Mount Herman. He is survived by three daughters, Terry Franklin of Houston, Sonya Noil of Kenner and Cloreeinda Augusta of New Orleans; two stepdaughters, Therentha Ratliff of Avondale and Darlene Owens of Bogalusa; one stepson, Allen Ratliff of Bogalusa; two sisters, Velma Brock of New Orleans, and Ardean Brumfield of Kentwood; and eight grandchildren. The funeral will be Saturday at N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Silver Creek Cemetery, Kentwood. October 10, 2003 * Philip Joseph Deliberto, 79, Hammond * Shannon Ward Tompkins, 18, Hammond PHILIP JOSEPH DELIBERTO Philip Joseph Deliberto, 79, died Thursday, Oct. 9. 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. Visitation will be Saturday morning at Holy Ghost Catholic Church with the funeral at 10:30. Harry McKneely Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. A full obituary will run in The Sunday Star. SHANNON WARD TOMPKINS Shannon Ward Tompkins, 18, died Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a native of Ponchatoula. He is survived by his parents, Donnie and Alice Watts Bardwell of Ponchatoula; his father, Stacey Tompkins; one brother, Dustin Tompkins of Ponchatoula; one sister, Heather Bardwell of Ponchatoula; his grandparents, Wallace and Lilly Mae Watts of Ponchatoula and Donald and Beverly Bardwell of Thibodeaux; and his great- grandmother, Clara Johnson of Denham Springs. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Juanita Miller. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, from 6 to 10 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 10. The Rev. Eddie Robertson will officiate. Burial will be in Sand Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shannon Tompkins Memorial Fund at Hancock Bank. October 12, 2003 * Philip Joseph Deliberto, 79, Hammond * George Garnett Sr., 75, Baton Rouge * Elsie B. Witt Cobb Gates, 79, Hammond * Shannon Ward Tompkins, 18, Hammond * Mary Frederic Turner, 79, Hammond PHILLIP JOSEPH DELIBERTO Phillip Joseph Deliberto, 79, died Thursday, Oct. 9, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. He was a native of Hammond. He is survived by his wife, Euna Basso Deliberto, a daughter, Barbara D. Burns, both of Hammond; a sister, Cecilia Nobles of Robert; and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Salvatora "Lilly" Rusciano Deliberto; a son, Wayne Joseph Deliberto; a granddaughter; and a brother, Vincent Deliberto. The funeral was Saturday at Holy Ghost Catholic Church. Burial was at Rose Memorial Cemetery. Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond was in charge. GEORGE GARNETT SR. BATON ROUGE - George Garnett Sr., 75, died Thursday, Oct. 6, 2003, in Baton Rouge. He was a resident of Baton Rouge and a native of Donaldsonville. He worked with Public Belt Railroad for 30 years, until his retirement, and was a member of Pleasant Valley Church of God In Christ until his death. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy J. Garnett of Baton Rouge; six sons, James Garnett of Donaldsonville, Bernard, Roy Michael and Daniel Garnett, all of New Orleans, Israel and Jesse Garnett, both of Baton Rouge; eight daughters, Joyce Garnett Gipson of Donaldsonville, the Rev. Cynthia Garnett Wade of LaPlace, Janet Garnett Buie, Mona Ganrett Stewart and Michelle Garnett Hamilton, all of New Orleans, Georgette, Karyn and Mirian Garnett, both of Hammond; his brother, Allen Garnett of Fort Worth, Texas; his former wife, Shirley Garnett of New Orleans; 21 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; three children, George Garnett Jr., Cheryl Garnett Mutley and Jerard Garnett Sr; two sisters, Louise Horton and Victoria Stell; and two brothers, Lawrence Garnett and Grandison Garnett Jr. The Rev. Dwitt Brock conducted the funeral Saturday at Pleasant Valley Church of God In Christ. Burial followed in Southern Memorial Gardens, in North Baton Rouge. Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond, was in charge. ELSIE B. WITT COBB GATES Elsie B. Witt Cobb Gates, 79, died Saturday, Oct. 11, 2003. She was a native of Blount County, Ala. She is survived by a son, Charles "Chuck" Cobb of Ponchatoula; a brother, James Eller Witt of Leesburg, Ala.; six grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Ty Cobb; her second husband, James O. Gates; a daughter, Etta Ruth Cobb Higgins; her parents, James Melvin and Dellar Eller Witt; a sister, Ruth Witt Ridgeway; four brothers, Jessie, Avril, Lonnie and James Henry Witt. Visitation will be on Monday at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home in Hammond from 8:30 a.m. until the Rev. Carol Richardson conducts the funeral at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Rose Memorial Cemetery. SHANNON WARD TOMPKINS Shannon Ward Tompkins, 18, died Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. A native of Ponchatoula, his survivors include his parents, Donnie and Alice Watts Bardwell of Ponchatoula; his father, Stacey Tompkins; one brother, Dustin Tompkins of Ponchatoula; one sister, Heather Bardwell of Ponchatoula; his grandparents, Wallace and Lilly Mae Watts of Ponchatoula, and Donald and Beverly Bardwell of Thibodeaux; and great-grandmother, Clara Johnson of Denham Springs. His grandmother, Juanita Miller, preceded him in death. The Rev. Eddie Robertson conducted the funeral Saturday. Burial was in Sand Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shannon Tompkins Memorial Fund at Hancock Bank. MARY FREDERIC TURNER Sister Mary Frederic Turner, O.S.B., 79, died Friday, Oct. 10, 2003. She is survived by her sister, Freda Baily of Evansville, Ind. She was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred Turner and Mary L. Rapp. She entered the Convent of the Immaculate Conception in Ferdinand, Ind., in 1940. She taught in public schools in Indiana for 19 years. In 1959, she was assigned to Our Lady of Grace Convent in Beechgrove, Ind. She was a registered nurse for 24 years. She transferred to the contemplative Benedictine community of Our Lady Queen Monastery in Tickfaw in 1990. A Mass of Christian Burial was held Saturday at Our Lady Queen Monastery in Tickfaw. Internment followed at Our Lady Queen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial are requested to be sent to Our Lady Queen Monastery at 50352 Antioch Road in Tickfaw, 70466. Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, was in charge. October 13, 2003 * Elmer George Lyons, 76, Amite * Irvin Jerry Fekete Sr., 65, Albany * Vencia Kirkland Lamonte, 73, Albany * Marian Watts Priser, 76, Mandeville * Terry Schmolke, 49, Covington ELMER GEORGE LYONS AMITE - Elmer George Lyons, 76, died Sunday, Oct. 12,, 2003, at his home. He was a native of Tomberlin, Ark., and a truck driver. He is survived by his wife, Minnie Ruth Smith Lyons of Amite; five daughters, Linda Raddick of Long Beach, Calif., Georgette Dupuy, Mary Ruth Cusick and Deidre Lyons, all of Amite, and Gwendolyn Vogler of Humphrey, Ark.; two sons, Jimmy Lyons of Amite and Robert Lyons of San Diego; two sisters Pauline Durden of Humphrey and Pat Jones of Pine Bluff, Ark.; one brother, Joe Ben Lyons of Searcy, Ark.; 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by one sister, Nevada C. Richardson. Visitation will be Tuesday at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9 a.m. until the Rev. Jack Jones conducts the funeral at 10. Burial will be in Amite Memorial Gardens, Amite. IRVIN JERRY FEKETE SR. ALBANY - Irvin Jerry Fekete Sr., 65, died Friday, Oct. 10, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond A native of Logan, W.V., he was a retired teacher, coach and assistant principal of Springfield High School. He was a graduate of Albany High School and Southeastern Louisiana University. He was also an external assessor for the Livingston Parish School System, and supervisor for the Capital Soil and water Conservation District. He is survived by his wife, Jeanette Hutchinson Fekete of Albany; one daughter, Stephanie Fekete of Basel, Switzerland; one son, Jerry Fekete of Bowling Green, Kentucky; two sisters, Helen Nyeki of Albany, and Theresa Tennison of Angleton, Texas, two brothers, E.J. Fekete, Gonzales, and Julius Fekete of Tickfaw. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Theresa Nagy Fekete; three sisters, Elizabeth Wilburn, Irene Hager and Eleanor Beregi; and three brothers, Joe, Alex and Frank Fekete. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 5 to 9 p.m., and Tuesday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. Sammy Smith conducts the funeral at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Hungarian Presbyterian Church Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Irvin Jerry Fekete Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 232, Albany, LA 70711. VENCIA KIRKLAND LAMONTE ALBANY - Vencia Kirkland Lamonte, 73, died Sunday, Oct. 12, 2003, in Metairie. She was a native of Baptist. She is survived by one daughter, Cheryl L. Morse of Metairie; two sons, Guy J. Lamonte of Baton Rouge, and Donald J. Lamonte of Louisville, Kentucky; six sisters, Ruby Nicolosi of Hammond, Lucy Williams of Albany, Yvonne Howell of Baptist, Ann Coates of Springfield, and Ruth Rushing of Denham Springs; eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by his parents, Ollie Hines and Lillian Jackson Kirkland; three brothers, Albert, Harold and Otis Kirkland; and one sister, Effie Kirkland. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 10 p.m., and Tuesday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 1:30 p.m. The Rev. Leonard Rushing Jr. will officiate. Burial will be in Rose Memorial Park Mausoleum. MARIAN WATTS PRISER MANDEVILLE - Marian Watts Priser, 76, has died. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced with Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula. TERRY SCHMOLKE COVINGTON - Terry Schmolke, 49, died Saturday, Oct. 11, 2003, at Louisiana State University Medical Center, New Orleans. A carpenter, he was a native of Bogalusa, and graduate of Covington High School. He was a field trial champion trainer. He is survived by one son, Jason Kent Schmolke; three daughters, Belinda K. Schmolke, Karen C. Schmolke and Trudy L. Schmolke; 10 brothers, Ronny L. Carter, Johnny, Jerry, Jimmy, Frank and Joseph Schmolke Jr., Raymond Fitzmorris, and Buddy and Chuck Roberts; two sisters, Kathy M Denenea and Donna Faye Whittner; and 10 grandchildren. Visitation will be today at Bagnell & Son Funeral Home, Covington, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. The funeral will Tuesday at Pilgrim Rest Cemetery, at 10 a.m. followed by burial in Pilgrim Rest Cemetery. October 14, 2003 * Ronnie Dick Cory, 66, Roseland * John Henry Koleszar, 55, Hammond * Venica Kirkland Lamonte, 73, Albany * Raymond Joseph Matherne, 72, Good Hope * Marian Watts Priser, 76, Mandeville RONNIE DICK CORY ROSELAND - Ronnie Dick Cory, 66, died Saturday, Oct. 11, 2003, at Veterans Administration Medical Center, New Orleans. He was a native of Loranger, a salesman and a U.S. Marine veteran having served the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan. He is survived by two sons, Bryan Cory of Arcola and Christopher Cory of Atlanta; one sister, Ellen Cory Davis of Zillah, Wash.; and three brothers, Walter E. Cory of Gonzales, William "Bill" Cory of Tickfaw and Robert Cory of Zillah. He was preceded in death by his wife, Clara Nell Rutland Cory; and his parents, Edward and Blanche Statham Cory. Visitation will be Wednesday at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 2 p.m. until the funeral at 3. Burial will be in Arcola-Roseland Cemetery, Arcola. JOHN HENRY KOLESZAR John Henry Koleszar, 55, died Monday, Oct. 13, 2003, at his home. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Geisler Funeral Home, Albany. VENCIA KIRKLAND LAMONTE ALBANY - Vencia Kirkland Lamonte, 73, died Sunday, Oct. 12, 2003, in Metairie. She was a native of Baptist. She is survived by one daughter, Cheryl L. Morse of Metairie; two sons, Guy J. Lamonte of Baton Rouge and Donald J. Lamonte of Louisville, Ky.; six sisters, Ruby Nicolosi of Hammond, Lucy Williams of Albany, Yvonne Howell of Baptist, Ann Coates of Springfield and Ruth Rushing of Denham Springs; eight grandchildren and two great- grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Pat and Lillie Jackson Kirkland; three brothers, Albert, Harold and Otis Kirkland; one sister, Effie Kirkland; and her stepfather, Cleon Kirkland. The Rev. Leonard Rushing Jr. conducted the funeral today. Burial was in Rose Memorial Park Mausoleum. Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, was in charge. RAYMOND JOSEPH MATHERNE GOOD HOPE - Raymond Joseph "June" Matherne, 72, died Saturday, Oct. 11, 2003, in LaPlace. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of the Korean conflict and a member of the Spillway Post American Legion Post 195. He is survived by his wife, Earline Ledet "Lynn" Matherne of Norco; children, Jayne M. Verdin of Loranger, Pamela M. Ladd of Ponchatoula, Brian A. Matherne and Vince Matherne, both of Norco, Dwayne P. Matherne of Destrehan and Dean C. Matherne of Monroe; and 12 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Beatrice Fabre Matherne. The funeral was today at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Norco. Burial was in St. Charles Borromeo Cemetery, Destrehan. A.C. Alexander Funeral Home, Norco, was in charge. MARIAN WATTS PRISER MANDEVILLE - Marian Watts Priser, 76, died Monday, Oct. 13, 2003, at St. Tammany Parish Hospital, Covington. She was a native of Sun. She is survived by two daughters, Dianne McHughes and Kathy Lovell, both of Bedico; one son, Roy Desmond Priser of Bedico; one brother, Nolan Watts of Baton Rouge; two sisters, Helen Bywater of Maringouin and Audrey Posey of Folsom; six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Roy D. Priser; her parents, Sullivan and Cecelia Templet Watts; one brother, James Watts; and two sisters, Evelyn Mizell and Genevive Bowling. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, from 6 to 9 p.m. The Rev. Leo Miller will conduct the funeral at 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 1040 Calhoun St., New Orleans, LA 70118. October 15, 2003 * John Henry Koleszar, 55, Hammond * Edward Joseph Matthews, 72, Hammond * Ernestine McKinney Mayeaux, 69 Hammond * Daniel Tyler Phelps, 20, Hammond * William Byrd Walker, 84, Hammond JOHN HENRY KOLESZAR John Henry Koleszar, 55, died Monday, Oct. 13, 2003, at his home. He was a native of Albany, a 1996 graduate of Albany High School and a corporal in the U.S. Army having served his country in Germany. He is survived by two sisters, Mary Ann Thompson of Natalbany and Anna M. Hernandez of Livingston; and two brothers, Michael A. Koleszar of Natalbany and Jimmy J. Koleszar of Amite. He was preceded in death by his father, Andrew M. Koleszar; and his mother, Annie Kropog Koleszar. Visitation will be Thursday at Geisler Funeral Home, Albany from noon until the Rev. Carlin Sanders conducts the funeral at 2 p.m. Burial will be in St. Margarets Catholic Church Cemetery, Albany. EDWARD JOSEPH MATTHEWS Edward Joseph Matthews, 72, died Monday, Oct. 13, 2003, at Touro Infirmary, New Orleans. He was a native of Manhattan, N.Y., a former employee of General Motors, and a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 3526. He is survived by his wife, Florence Weiss Matthews of Hammond; two daughters, Jeannie Matthews Reed of Hammond and Cathy Matthews Wagner of Charlotte, N.C.; two sons, Edward Joseph Matthews Jr. of Covington, and John Peter Matthews of Hammond; nine grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, William John and Mary Whisker Matthews; one brother, Peter Matthews; and one sister, Ann Matthews. Visitation will be Thursday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 10 p.m. and Friday from 8 until 9:40 a.m. Mass will be at Holy Ghost Catholic Church at 10. ERNESTINE MCKINNEY MAYEAUX Ernestine McKinney Mayeaux, 69, died Monday, Oct. 13, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Ponchatoula and a resident of Landmark Nursing Center, Hammond. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Ponchatoula. She is survived by three sons, Jesse Ray and Rodney Mayeaux, both of Ponchatoula, and Thomas Mayeaux of Holden; one daughter, Carolyn Mayeaux of Albany; one sister, Peggy Stockman of Deville; seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Valery Mayeaux; one daughter, Penny Ann Mayeaux; her parents, Leonard J. and Lillie Kinchen McKinney; four sisters, Ethel Foster, Lucy, Jenny and Joyce McKinney; four brothers, Alvin, Julius, Henry and James McKinney; and one grandson. Visitation will be today at Geisler Funeral Home, Albany, from noon until the funeral at 2 p.m. Burial will be in Alvin J. McKinney Cemetery, Springfield. DANIEL TYLER PHELPS Daniel Tyler Phelps, 20, died Monday, Oct. 13, 2003, at his home. He was a graduate of Hammond High School, attended Southeastern Louisiana University, was a member of Theta XI Fraternity and a recipient of TOPS Scholarship. He is survived by his parents, Claud and Jill Leber Phelps Jr. of Hammond, and Samuel Richard and Melissa Arnold Staggers of Mandeville; and his grandparents, Claud and Sybil Bush Phelps of Ponchatoula, and Lee and Anna Daniel Arnold of Bedico. Visitation will be Thursday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, from 2 p.m. until the Rev. Greg Griffin conducts the funeral at 4. Burial will be in Sam Arnold Cemetery, Bedico. WILLIAM BYRD WALKER Memorial donations for William "Bill" Byrd Walker may also be made to North Oaks Hospice, P.O. Box 2668, Hammond, LA 70404. The Daily Star inadvertently omitted North Oaks Hospice from the obituary notice that was published Oct. 8. Walker, 84, died Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2003, at Hammond Nursing Home. He was a native of Jayess, Miss., and a member of Happy Woods Church of God of The Abrahamic Faith. Memorial donations may also be made to Happy Woods Church of God Building Fund, 42418 South Range Road, Hammond, LA 70404. October 16, 2003 * Raymond D. Charbonnet, 45, Ponchatoula * Oran John Domingue, 73, Ponchatoula * Linda Faye Downing, 44, Amite * Felicie Genovese, 83, Hammond * Floyd Ellis Hopkins Sr., 61, Albany * Alicia Ann LeGrande Owens, 45, Hammond * Audrey J. Paul, 66, Woodhaven * Lanny Herbert Schatzle, 89, Ponchatoula * Marie Leonard Wheat, 85, Amite RAYMOND D. CHARBONNET Ponchatoula - Raymond D. Charbonnet, 45, died Sunday, Oct. 12, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He is survived by his mother, Annie M. Charbonnet of Ponchatoula; one sister, Pamela Norred of Ponchatoula; two brothers, Gary Charbonnet of Tickfaw, and Darrel Charbonnet of Ponchatoula. A memorial service was held Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2003, at Church of God & Prophecy. N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, was in charge. ORAN JOHN DOMINGUE PONCHATOULA - Oran John Domingue, 73, died Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2003, at The Louisiana War Veterans Hospital, Jackson. He was a native of Scott, an insurance salesman and a retired career veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He is survived by his wife, Janice Bryant Domingue of Ponchatoula; three daughters, Deanne D. Wesberry of Lafayette, Kathy Chachere of Opelousas, and Cindy D. DeWitt of Austin, Texas; two step-daughters, Bonnie S. Roberts of Summersville, Texas, and Wonnie S. Matcun of Dublin, Ga.; two brothers, Raymond Domingue of Rayne, and Wilson Domingue of Lafayette; one sister, Mary D. Broussard fo Lafayette; and five grandchildren and three step-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mary Domingue; three brothers, Russell, Dennis and J.C. Domingue. Visitation will be Friday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 11:30 a.m. until the Rev. Ray Cragin conducts the funeral at 2:30 p.m. Burial will be in Holly Gardens Cemetery, Hammond. LINDA FAYE DOWNING AMITE - Linda Faye Downing, 44, died Sunday, Oct. 12, 2003, at Hood Memorial Hospital. She was a native of St. Helena Parish. She is survived by two sons, Darrell Downing of Monroe, and Hillery Downing of Amite; two daughters, Ebony Downing and Vickie Downing, both of Amite; one sister, Martha Rick of Roseland; and one brother, Willie Watson of Monroe. She was preceded in death by her parents, Riley and Ester Pitts; her husband, Roy Downing; her great-grandparents, and one sister. Visitation will be Friday at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, from 5 to 9 p.m. The Rev. Lawrence Morris will conduct the funeral Saturday at noon at Trinity Chapel AME Church, Amite. Burial will be in Mount Zion Cemetery, Montpelier. FELICIE GENOVESE Felicie Genovese, 83, died Sunday, Oct. 12, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Independence. She is survived by her half sister, Ann Biundo of Morgan City. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Geraldine Pardo Genovese, sisters and brothers. Visitation will be Saturday at Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church, Independence, from 9 a.m. until the Rev. Paul McDuffy conducts the funeral at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in Colonial Cemetery. Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. FLOYD ELLIS HOPKINS SR. ALBANY - Floyd Ellis Hopkins Sr., 61, died Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2003, at his home. He was a native of Holden, and a truck driver for Volkes Construction Company, Prairieville. He is survived by his daughter, Veronica "Ronnie" Hopkins of Albany; a son, Floyd Ellis Hopkins Jr. of Holden; his mother, Almeda Sullivan Hopkins of Denham Springs; three sisters, Pearl Efferson of Colyell, Sis Starkey of Albany, and Kathleen Roberts of Denham Springs; two brothers, Thomas and Son Hopkins, both Denham Springs; and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Ellis Hopkins; one sister, Ann Parrott; and one brother, Archie Pierre. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 10 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. Jeff Hawthorne conducts the funeral at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Courtney Cemetery, Holden. ALICIA ANN LEGRANDE OWENS Alicia Ann LeGrande Owens, 45, died Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2003, at the University of Alabama Hospital in Birmingham. She was a native of Harris County, Texas, a recipient of a double lung transplant, a member of Woodland Park Baptist Church, a graduate of O. Perry Walker High School and Soule College. She is survived by her husband, James Garry Owens of Hammond; one son, Nicholas James Owens of Hammond; her mother, Martha Ann Honaker of New Orleans; her father, Lawrence Joseph LeGrande Jr. of Mandeville; and one brother, Lawrence Earl LeGrande. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Lawrence Joseph and Alice Marie Boudreaux LeGrande, and James Nelson and Ann Ley Gausney Honaker. 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 9 a.m. The Rev. Leon Dunn and the Rev. Lynn Martine will officiate. Burial will be in Oak Grove Cemetery, Franklinton. AUDREY J. PAUL WOODHAVEN - Audrey J. Paul, 66, died Monday, Oct. 13, 2003. She is survived by eight daughters, Carolyn Smith, Mary Haynes, Thelma McCoy and Audrey Mae Paul, all of Woodhaven; Sandra Latin of Independence, Eva Marshall of Baton Rouge, Kathy Williams and Jacqueline Bailey of Marietta, Ga.; four sons, Louis James Paul Jr., Durrell Paul and William Paul, all of Woodhaven, and Gerald Paul of Marietta, Ga.; one sister, Jimmie Marie Lewis of Woodhaven; one brother, Tom Jones of Westwego; 25 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Visitation will be Friday at Nazareth Missionary Baptist Church, Woodhaven, from 6 to 9 p.m. The Rev. Augustus Fox will conduct the funeral at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond, Saturday at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Holly Gardens Cemetery, Hammond. LANNY HEBERT SCHATZLE PONCHATOULA - Lanny Hebert Schatzle, 89, died Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2003, at her home. She was a native of Bellrose. She is survived by one son, Kenneth Schatzle of Ponchatoula; one daughter, Elaine Schatzle of Ponchatoula; three brothers, Marie Vaccaro of Ethel, Bea Kerek of Albany, Gerry Coupel of Brusly; and one brother, Lawrence Hebert of Bayou Blue; and two grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Robert Schatzle; her parents, Andre and Odile Lopez Hebert; one brother, Raymond Hebert; six sisters, Edna Ingolia, Esther Mollere, Ella Marroy, Florence Theriot, Olive Kerek and Blanch "Billie" Landry. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, from 6 to 10 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. until 10:15 a.m. The funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial will be in Wadesboro Cemetery. MARIE LEONARD WHEAT AMITE - Marie Leonard Wheat, 85, died Thursday, Oct. 9, ,2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Amite. She is survived by three sons, Floyd Wheat of Boston, Mass., and George Wheat Jr. of Hammond; four daughters, Elizabeth Zanders and Dorothy Burton of Amite; Georgia Wright of Hammond, and Jeanette Wheat of Omaha, Nebraska; five sisters, Josephine Green of Hemphill, Texas, Lilly Mae Triggs and Helen Smith of New Orleans, Dorethea Davis of Hammond, Justine Walker of Baton Rouge; one brother, Leon Leonard Jr. of Independence; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother, Dinna S. Leonard; her father, Leon Leonard Sr.; her grandmother, Thena Leonard; and her grandfather, Willie Leonard. Visitation will be Friday at Butler Chapel AME Church, Amite, from 5 until the Rev. Francis Williams conducts the funeral at 7:30 p.m. Dismissal will be Saturday at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Butler Cemetery, Amite. Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, is in charge. October 17, 2003 * Ruth Elene Horning Bogil, 78, Slidell * Stephen E. Boyette, 72, Loranger * Freddie Chaney, 60, Hammond * John Dorsa, 76, Tickfaw * Audrey J. Paul, 66, Woodhaven * Rory L. Rogers, 41, Ponchatoula Dottie Levatino Yarbrough, 61, Jefferson RUTH ELENE HORNING BOGIL SLIDELL - Ruth "Mammaw" Elene Horning Bogil, 78, died Thursday, Oct. 16, 2003, at the home of her daughter. She was a native of Wakita, Okla., and deputy assessor with the St. Tammany Parish Assessor's Office. She is survived by her son, John C. Bogil of New Orleans; two daughters, Patricia Macaluso of Hammond and Jana Lay of Slidell; one sister, Deannie Gibbons of Wakita, Okla.; eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, George Bogil; and her sister, Jean Horning Sassaman. Visitation will be from 7 to 9 p.m. at Honaker Funeral Home, 1751 Gause Blvd. W., Slidell, Sunday with a memorial service at 8. A private family interment will take place in Wakita, Okla., at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Memorial Hospice of Slidell or the American Cancer Society. STEPHEN E. BOYETTE LORANGER - Stephen E. Boyette, 72, died Thursday, Oct. 16, 2003, at his home. He was a native of Meridian, Miss., and a retired principal of Loranger High School. He is survived by his wife, Betty Carol Spears Boyette of Loranger; two daughters, Kay Boyette Griffin and Tammy Boyette Lee, both of Loranger; two sons, Steve Boyette of Lake Village, Ark., and Randy Boyette of Loranger; his mother, Hettie Stodard Boyette of Meridian, Miss.; three sisters, Jane Covington of Meridian, Miss., Barbara Strahan of Pascagoula, Miss., Katherine Rutledge of Gautier, Miss.; two brothers, William H. Boyette of Greencastle, Ind., and Jack Boyette of Meridian; 13 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Jessie Everett Boyette. Visitation will be Saturday at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. until the Rev. Mike Hegwood conducts the funeral at 2 p.m. Burial will be in Loranger Cemetery, Loranger. In lieu of flowers, send memorial contributions to Loranger Baptist Church. FREDDIE CHANEY Freddie Chaney, 60, died Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a native of Independence and a truck driver. He is survived by one daughter, Alisha Chaney of Kenner; four sons, Gerald and Marvin Chaney, both of New Orleans, and Frederick and Daryl Chaney, both of Kenner; two brothers, Guy Perkins Jr. of Tickfaw and Robert Perkins of Springfield; his mother, Elnora Perkins of Hammond; and his father, Guy Perkins Sr. of Hammond. Visitation will be today at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond, from 4 p.m. until the funeral at 7 conducted by Samuel Richardson. Dismissal will be Saturday at 10 a.m., followed by burial in Holly Gardens Cemetery, Hammond. JOHN DORSA TICKFAW - John Dorsa, 76, died at his residence. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond. AUDREY J. PAUL WOODHAVEN - Audrey J. Paul, 66, died Monday, Oct. 13, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She is survived by eight daughters, Carolyn Smith, Mary Haynes, Thelma McCoy and Audrey Mae Paul, all of Woodhaven; Sandra Latin of Independence, Eva Marshall of Baton Rouge, Kathy Williams and Jacqueline Bailey, both of Marietta, Ga.; four sons, Louis James Paul Jr., Darrell Paul and William Paul, all of Woodhaven, and Gerald Paul of Marietta; one sister, Jimmie Marie Lewis of Woodhaven; one brother, Tom Jones of Westwego; 25 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Visitation will be today at Nazareth Missionary Baptist Church, Woodhaven, from 6 to 9 p.m. The Rev. Augustus Cooper will conduct the funeral at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond, Saturday at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Holly Gardens Cemetery, Hammond. RORY L. ROGERS PONCHATOULA - Rory L. Rogers, 41, died Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2003, at his home. He was a native of Indianapolis, Ind. He is survived by his parents, Ronnie and Donna Gosnell Rogers of Ponchatoula; five brothers, Anthony Rogers of Nashville, Ark., Matthew Rogers of Ponchatoula, Andrew Rogers Sr. of Albany, Ronald Rogers of Hammond and Kurtis Rogers Sr. of Jacksonville, Fla.; and one sister, Dawn Rogers Keever of Ponchatoula. Visitation will be Saturday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, from noon until the funeral at 2 p.m. The Rev. Wayne Yates will conduct the service. DOTTIE LEVATINO YARBROUGH JEFFERSON - Dottie Levatino Yarbrough, 61, died Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2003, at her home. A native of Independence, she was a former resident of Hammond and a homemaker. She is survived by two daughters, Tiphany Sexton of Jefferson and Monique Reid of Albany; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry Levatino and Myrtle Levatino; one sister, Lucy Shultz; and one grandchild. L.A. Muhleisen and Son Funeral Home is in charge. October 19, 2003 * John Joseph Dorsa, 76, Tickfaw * Bruha B. "Butch" Esteven Jr., 60, Amite * Isabella Allen "Dootney" Harper, 100, Franklinton * Ola Mae Amacker Scott, 49, Greensburg JOHN JOSEPH DORSA TICKFAW - John Joseph Dorsa, 76, died Friday, Oct. 17, 2003 at his residence. A native of Tickfaw, he was a member of Our Lady of Pompeii Council, the Blessed Mother Society, St. Rosalie Society and was a veteran of World War II. He is survived by two sisters, Frances G. Dorsa of Tickfaw and Rosalie D. Myrick of Independence. He was preceded in death by his parents, Morris and Annie Macaluso Dorsa; and one sister, Mary Ann Dorsa. Visitation will be Monday at Our Lady of Pompeii Catholic Church, Tickfaw, from 9 a.m. until religious services start at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Tickfaw Catholic Cemetery. BRUHA B. "BUTCH" ESTEVEN JR. ALAMEDA, Calif. - Bruha B. "Butch" Esteven Jr., 60, died Thursday, Oct. 9, 2003 at the Bay View Nursing Center, Alameda, Calif. A former accountant and drug and alcohol abuse counselor, he was a native of Amite. He had lived in San Francisco for the last 20 years. He is survived by two brothers, Gregory P. Esteven of Amite and Roy G. Esteven of Slidell; one uncle, Jo Jo Currier of Amite and one aunt, Ida Currier Landry of Amite. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Carmelo and Josephine Currier and Joseph Caliste and Marie Gilfour Esteven; and parents, Bruha B. "Steve" Esteven and Verena Currier Esteven. Bruha will be laid to rest in LaMiranda, Calif. ISABELLE ALLEN "DOOTNEY" HARPER FRANKLINTON - Isabella Allen "Dootney" Harper, 100, died Monday, Oct. 13 at Riverside Medical Center, Franklinton. She was a native of Woodville, Miss. and a resident of Franklinton. She is survived by four daughters, Carrie Spurlock of Hammond, Jannie Lee White of New York and Ester Mae Daniels and Joella Gray of Milwaukee; three sons, James C. Harper Jr. of Hammond and Larry and Donald Harper of Milwaukee; 33 grandchildren, 48 great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, James C. Harper Sr.; two daughters, Marion Gray and Ceola Harper; three sons, Edward, John and Eddie Harper; two brothers, Cleveland and Charlie Allen; and four sisters, Mary Liza Collier, Olevia Carter and Aleta and Henrietta Grady. The funeral was held Saturday at Macedonia Baptist Church, Hammond, with the Rev. Willie Gable Jr. conducting the service. She was buried in Holly Gardens Cemetery. OLA MAE AMACKER SCOTT GREENSBURG - Ola Mae Amacker Scott, 49, died Thursday, Oct. 16, 2003 at her home. She was a senior program specialist for TADAC and a native of Greensburg. She was an active member of Rocky Hill AME Church, serving on numerous committees. She was also a member of the Louisiana Jewels of Eboni and the St. Helena Parish Volunteer Fire Board. She is survived by her husband, Donald Scott of Greensburg; two daughters, Carmen Bell of Fairfax, Va., and Chirsten Scott of Greensburg; her mother, Beatrice Amacker of Greensburg; two sisters, Willie Amacker Baker of Amite and Debra H. Sawyer of New Orleans; one aunt, four uncles and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, three aunts and an uncle. Visitation will be Monday at Rocky Hill AME Church, Amite from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. The funeral will be Tuesday at the church at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Ranches Hall conducting the service. Burial will be in the church's cemetery. October 20, 2003 * Marjorie "Maggie" Flagg Elliot, 79, River Ridge * Ola Mae Amacker Scott, 49, Greensburg MARJORIE FLAGG ELLIOT RIVER RIDGE - Marjorie "Maggie" Flagg Elliot, 79, died Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2003, at Ochsner Hospital. She was a native of Cleveland, Ohio, and a homemaker. She is survived by her husband, Joe S. Elliot; two daughters, Laura Jones and Leslie Elliot Smith; and three grandchildren. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Leitz-Eagan Funeral Home, Metairie, is in charge. OLA MAE AMACKER SCOTT GREENSBURG - Ola Mae Amacker Scott, 49, died Thursday, Oct. 16, 2003 at her home. She was a senior program specialist for TADAC and a native of Greensburg. She was an active member of Rocky Hill AME Church, serving on numerous committees. She was also a member of the Louisiana Jewels of Eboni and the St. Helena Parish Volunteer Fire Board. She is survived by her husband, Donald Scott of Greensburg; two daughters, Carmen Bell of Fairfax, Va., and Chirsten Scott of Greensburg; her mother, Beatrice Amacker of Greensburg; two sisters, Willie Amacker Baker of Amite and Debra H. Sawyer of New Orleans; one aunt, four uncles and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, three aunts and an uncle. Visitation will be today at Rocky Hill AME Church, Amite from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. The funeral will be Tuesday at the church at noon with the Rev. Ranches Hall conducting the service. Burial will be in the church's cemetery. October 21, 2003 * Linda Ann Hudson Anthony, 58, Loranger * Audrey Forbes Henry Carver, 83, Baton Rouge * Clara Walker Reid, 63, Ponchatoula LINDA ANN HUDSON ANTHONY LORANGER - Linda Ann Hudson Anthony, 58, died Monday, Oct. 20, 2003, at her home. She was a native of Bratt, Fla., and a restaurant manager. Survivors include three sons, Michael Dennis of Ponchatoula, Gary Dennis of Loranger and Mark Dennis of Madisonville; two sisters, Betty Merchant of East Brewton, Ala., and Marion Leonard of Grovehill, Ala.; five brothers, Arthur Hudson of Amelia, Clarence Hudson Jr., Charles, Terry and Troy Hudson, all of Merryville; and six grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, James H. "Snap" Anthony; her father, Clarence Hudson; her mother, Susan Inez Crawford Hudson; and two brothers, Johnny and Tony Hudson. Visitation will be Wednesday at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 to 9 p.m. and Thursday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. David Cutrer conducts the funeral at 2 p.m. Burial will be in Lawrence Memorial Gardens, Loranger. AUDREY FORBES HENRY CARVER BATON ROUGE - Audrey Forbes Henry Carver, 83, died Monday, Oct. 20, 2003. She was a native of Hammond. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Geisler Funeral Home, Hammond. CLARA WALKER REID PONCHATOULA - Clara Walker Reid, 63, died Saturday, Oct. 18, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. Born in New Orleans, she was a retired medical clerk. Survivors include three sons, Johnny D. Reid of Hawaii, Justin W. Reid II of Virginia and James P. Reid of Texas; two daughters, Kathie P. and Janice A. Reid, both of Louisiana; her mother, Lillie A. Walker of Louisiana; one brother, Roger P. Walker of Washington; three sisters, Ancebelle Stafford of Virginia, Joann Reid and Rachael E. Purvis, both of Louisiana; 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ansel A. Reid; her father, Roy E. Walker Sr.; two brothers, Roy E. Walker Jr. and Ronnie D. Walker; and two sisters, Artie Marie Walker and Betty Faye Lorich. Visitation will be Thursday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, from 1 p.m. until the funeral at 3. The Rev. William Joiner will conduct the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Clara Jean Walker Reid Memorial Fund, 41446 Trails End, Ponchatoula, LA 70454-7852. October 23, 2003 * Beatrice Core Bell, 84, Amite * Mamie Anzalone Bruno, 85, Hammond * John Dustin Alexander Dyer, 30, Hammond * Lena Mae Stokes Fletcher, 71, Holden * Clara R. Hoskins, 92, Ponchatoula * LaShall Felder Newsome, 35, Hammond * Bernice Edwards Robertson, 57, Baton Rouge * Bennie Smith, 68, Albany * Ludee Thomas, 100, Hammond * Mettie Viola Zachary, 93, Denham Springs BEATRICE CORE BELL AMITE - Folsom native Beatrice "Sally" Core Bell, 84, died Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2003. Visitation will be Friday at New Sharon Baptist Church, Husser, from 6 to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. until the funeral at 11. Burial will be in Bell Cemetery, Amite. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Geisler Funeral Home, Hammond. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to her church, New Sharon Baptist Church. MAMIE ANZALONE BRUNO Mamie Anzalone Bruno, 85, died Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Independence and a housewife. Survivors include two daughters, Antoinette B. Domiano and Mary Rose B. Lee, both of Independence; one brother, Dominick Anzalone of Hammond; two sisters, Angie Trombatore of Independence and Josephine Kelly of Metairie; four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Her husband, Joseph J. Bruno; four sisters, Jennie Gulino, Mary Arnone, Lena Rosata and Rose Schiro; and three brothers, Joe Anzalone, Frank Anzalone and Tony Anzalone, all preceded her in death. The Rev. Paul McDuffie conducted the funeral today, and burial was in Colonial Mausoleum, Independence. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, was in charge. JOHN DUSTIN ALEXANDER DYER John Dustin Alexander Dyer, 30, died Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2003, in Nashville, Tenn. He was a native of Hammond. He is survived by his mother, Phyllis Alexander Shirey of Hammond; his father, Ronald P. Dyer of Birmingham, Ala.; his stepfather, Michael Shirey of Hammond; two brothers, Adam Dyer and Brian Shirey, both of Hammond; one sister, Jessica Perk of Hammond; his maternal grandmother, Shirley P. Alexander of Carriere, Miss.; his paternal grandmothers, Lane Liberman of Gulfport, Miss., and Dorothy Rochester Morgan of Baton Rouge. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Gary Alexander Sr.; and his paternal grandfather, Jack Nelson Dyer Sr. Visitation will be Saturday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 10 a.m. until the funeral at noon. Burial will be at Rose Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to VH1 Save the Music, 1515 Broadway 20th Floor, New York, N.Y. 10036. LENA MAE STOKES FLETCHER HOLDEN - Lena Mae Stokes Fletcher, 71, died Thursday, Oct. 23, at her home. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Geisler Funeral Home, Albany. CLARA R. HOSKINS PONCHATOULA - Clara Ratcliff Hoskins, 92, died Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. A longtime resident of McComb, Miss., she was a former resident of Lake Horn and native of Lincoln County, Miss. She is survived by one son, James R. Hoskins of Moss Point, Miss.; two daughters, Glenda H. Netterville of Ponchatoula and Launa H. Smith of Baton Rouge; nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, S.T. "Red" Hoskins; an infant son, five brothers, Alton, Fred, Steve, Decatar and an infant brother; and three sisters, Bertha R. Porter, Mae R. Smith and Willie Marie Hall. Visitation will be today at Catchings Funeral Home, McComb, from 5 to 9 p.m. and Friday from noon until the funeral at 2:30 p.m. The Rev. Wayne Myers will conduct the service. Burial will be in Hollywood Cemetery. Memorials may be sent to Palmer Home for Children, P.O. 746 Columbus, Miss. 39703. LASHALL FELDER NEWSOME LaShall Felder Newsome, 35, died Saturday, Oct. 18, 2003, at Her home. She is survived by her husband, Willie Newsome of Hammond; one sister, Marion Felder of Hammond; three brothers, John Felder of Natalbany, James Felder of Amite and Edward Felder of Hammond. Visitation will be Friday at N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, from 5 to 9 p.m. The funeral will be Saturday at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Cockerham Cemetery, Liberty, Miss. BERNICE EDWARDS ROBERTSON BATON ROUGE - Bernice Edwards Robertson, 57, died Friday, Oct. 17, 2003, at Out Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge. A native of Amite, she is survived by her husband, Thomas Robertson Jr. of Hammond; four sons, Terry and Brian Edwards, both of Baton Rouge, David Edwards of Amite and Timothy Edwards of Greensburg; two daughters, Cangela Robertson of Baton Rouge and Angela Bell of Greensburg; one sister, Mary Ann Sims of Atlanta; four brothers, Robert Lee Edwards and Daniel Edwards Jr., both of Roseland, Lionell Edwards of Amite and Doff Edwards of Clinton, Md.; her mother, Celestine Murry Edwards of Roseland; and nine grandchildren. Her father, Daniel Edwards; and her grandparents, Mary Francis Murry and William Murry, all preceded her in death. Visitation will be Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite. Samuel Richardson will conduct the funeral Saturday at Gordon-Richardson Temple of Deliverance COGIC, Amite, at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Rick's Chapel Cemetery, Amite. BENNIE SMITH ALBANY - Bennie Smith, 68, died Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2003, at his daughter's home. He was a native of Booneville, Miss. Survivors include two daughters, Tammy Huckabee of Alton, Mo., and Ramona Lachney of Albany; one son, Benny Wayne Smith of Ponchatoula; five sisters, Virginia Nolan of Nettleton, Miss., Mary Jo Davis of Walls, Miss., Flora Taylor of Horn Lake, Miss., Betty Skaggs of Nesbit, Miss., and Margie Jones of Booneville, Miss.; three brothers, George Smith of Booneville, N.C. Smith and Terry Smith, both of Rienzi, Miss.; nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. His parents, Van and Susie Barnes Smith preceded him in death. Visitation will be Friday at McKneely Funeral Home, Hammond, from 9 a.m. until the funeral at 2 p.m. Burial will be in Blood River Baptist Church Cemetery, Albany. LUDEE THOMAS Ludee Thomas, 100, died Monday, Oct. 20, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Greensburg. She is survived by five grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Willie and Mary Williams; her husband, Roger Thomas; and one son. Visitation will be Friday at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, from 5 to 9 p.m. The Rev. Frank Garrett Jr. will conduct the funeral Saturday at 2 p.m. at the Greater Trinity AME Zion Church, Amite. Burial will be at Mount Everett Cemetery, Greensburg. METTIE VIOLA ZACHARY DENHAM SPRINGS - Mettie Viola Zachary, 93, died Thursday, Oct. 23, 2003, at Summit Hospital in Baton Rouge. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced with Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond. October 24, 2003 * Beatrice Core Bell, 84, Amite * Ronnie I. Diamond, 32, Amite * Sam Clayton Elson, 67, Ponchatoula * Lena Mae Stokes Fletcher, 71, Holden * Peter Paul Lamonte, 81, Greenwell Springs * Frenita Codell East Young, 37, Richmond, Va. * Mettie Viola Zachary, 93, Denham Springs BEATRICE CORE BELL AMITE - Beatrice "Sallie" Core Bell, 84, died Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2003, at her home. She was a member of Camellia Chapter of Order of the Eastern Star, Shiloh Homemakers and New Sharon Baptist Church. She was a graduate of Lyon High in Covington and Perkinston College. She was chosen as an alternate for the 1936 Olympics in track and field. She was also a retired teachers aide at Amite Elementary School and member of numerous card clubs. A native of Folsom, she is survived by her husband, Herbert A. Bell of Amite; two daughters, Belva Hines of Hammond and Madeline Brasher of Amite; one brother, Talmadge Core of Folsom; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Visitation will be today at New Sharon Baptist Church, Husser, from 6 to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. until the funeral at 11. Burial will be in Bell Cemetery, Amite. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to her church, New Sharon Baptist Church, 57370 Highway 445, Husser, LA 70442. Geisler Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. RONNIE I. DIAMOND AMITE - Visitation will continue tonight until 9 p.m. at Angelic Funeral Home in Roseland for Ronnie I. Diamond. Diamond, 32, died Sunday, Oct. 19, 2003. He was a barber. He is survived by his mother, Carrie Diamond of Beaumont, Texas; six sisters, Dawn Diamond, Nicole Diamond, Mary Wilson, Catherine Freddie, Sirta Fay Dyson, all of Beaumont, and Lisa Burton of Amite; two brothers, Corey Diamond and Odell Dyson, both of Beaumont. He was preceded in death by his father, James Powell; his grandfather, Jimmie Diamond; and his grandmother, Cressie Walls Diamond. The Rev. Francis Williams will conduct the funeral Saturday at 11 a.m. at Butler's AME Zion Church, Amite. Burial will be in Butler's Cemetery, Amite. SAM CLAYTON ELSON PONCHATOULA - Sam Clayton Elson, 67, died Thursday, Oct. 16, 2003. He was a machine operator. He is survived by three sisters, Helen Jackson, Hilda Greely and Hazel Randolph, all of Ponchatoula; two brothers, Louis Burkhalter of Compton, Calif., and Richard Leon Elson of Ponchatoula. He was preceded in death by his parents. Visitation will be tonight at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 8. The Rev. Mack McCraney will conduct the funeral Saturday at Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church, Ponchatoula, at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Ponchatoula Cemetery. LENA MAE STOKES FLETCHER HOLDEN - Visitation will be tonight at Geisler Funeral Home in Albany for Lena Mae Stokes Fletcher, 71, who died Thursday, Oct. 23, 2003, at her home. A native of Holden, she was a member of 1st Pentecostal Church of Holden. Survivors include, two sons, Ronald Dudley Fletcher and Donald Wayne Fletcher, both of Holden; one brother, Jonny C. Owens of Holden; one daughter, Sheila Fletcher Bradham of Holden; one stepdaughter, Elise Fletcher Bankston of Albany; 15 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Edward Fletcher; her father, Joseph "Joe" Stokes; her mother, Lora Courtney; one brother, Amos Ray Owens; and a stepson, Pearson "Pete" Fletcher. The funeral will be Saturday at the funeral home at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at James Chapel Cemetery, Holden. PETER PAUL LAMONTE GREENWELL SPRINGS - Retired co-owner of Lamonte and Son Contracting Company and a native of Tickfaw, Peter Paul Lamonte, 81, died Oct. 22, 2003, at his home. He was a U.S. Army veteran having served during World War II and a member of St. Alphonsus Catholic Church and the American Legion Nicholson Post 38. He is survived by his wife, Frances Musacchia Lamonte; two daughters, Joycelyn Marie Lamonte and Judy Lamonte Soileau; a son, Peter Wayne Lamonte; a sister, Fannie Lamonte; a brother, Charlie Lamonte; four grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sam T. and Gawcamina Lamonte; three brothers, Tony, Joseph and Sam; two sisters, Sarah and Corine. Visitation will be today at Greenoaks Funeral Home, Baton Rouge, from 6 to 9 p.m. with recitation of the rosary at 7 p.m., and Saturday at Our Lady of Pompeii Catholic Church, Tickfaw, from 9:30 a.m. until the Rev. Marcos Ramos conducts a Mass at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. FRENITA CODELL EAST YOUNG RICHMOND, Va. - Frenita Codell East Young, 37, died Sunday, Oct. 19, 2003, at her home. A native of Baton Rouge, she is survived by her husband, Harry Baker Young of Richmond; one step-son, Craig Anthony Young of Baton Rouge; one daughters Sheneka Eriel Times of Richmond; one sisters, Melinda East Douglas of Richmond; and her mother, Lillie Mae Edwards East of Montpelier. Her father, Elder Samuel East Sr.; one brother, Samuel East Jr.; maternal grandparents, Curtis and Helen Edwards; and paternal grandparents Joe Nelson and Susie East, all preceded her in death. Visitation will be Saturday at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, at 11 a.m. The Rev. Kermit Leon Brown will officiate. Burial will be in Mount Zion Cemetery, Montpelier. METTIE VIOLA ZACHARY DENHAM SPRINGS - Mettie Viola Zachary, 93, died Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2003, at Summit Hospital, Baton Rouge. She is survived by her son, Bobby Zachary of Denham Springs; one brother, Wayne Miller of Missouri; two sisters, Myra Chesher of Denham Springs and Dorothy Williams of Baton Rouge; five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Wayne and Beulah Wallace Miller; one son, Charles Ray Zachary; three brothers, Laddie, Truett and Tom Miller; and four sisters, Ruth Baham, Minnie Lee Davis, Donnis Cagle and June Carpenter. Visitation will be Saturday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 10 a.m. until the funeral at 2 p.m. The Rev. Clint Mitchell will conduct the service. Burial will be in Rose Memorial Cemetery. October 26, 2003 * Doris Seitz Booth, 81, Ponchatoula * John Reed Cook, 76, Kentwood * Elva S. Cutrer, 74, Independence * Clara R. Hoskins, 92, Ponchatoula * William Leslie Martens Sr., 96, Natalbany * James McFerrin Sr., 60, Greensburg DORIS SEITZ BOOTH PONCHATOULA - Doris Seitz Booth, 81, died Monday, Oct. 20, 2003, at Kenner Regional Medical Center. A housewife, she is survived by her daughter, Johnnie Lynn Booth of Madisonville; six grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Emmitt Booth; her three sisters, Elsie S. Wood, Julia S. Maples and Cora S. Case; a grandson and her parents. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home in Ponchatoula from noon until the Rev. Tim Bolt conducts the funeral at 2 p.m. JOHN REED COOK KENTWOOD - John Reed Cook, 76, died Sunday, Oct. 19, 2003, at Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center, McComb, Miss. He is survived by two sisters, Ann Rose Hookfin of Kentwood and Dorothy Andrews of Los Angeles. The funeral was Saturday at Oak Grove AME Church, Kentwood. Burial was in Oak Grove Cemetery. N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, was in charge. ELVA S. CUTRER INDEPENDENCE - Elva S. Cutrer, 74, died Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Natalbany and a housewife. She was preceded in death by her husband, Cecil S. Cutrer of Independence; one daughter, Trudy A. Cefalu of Independence; and one son, Buster Morgan of Independence. She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl Swinney Sr. and Lula Mae Swinney; and one brother, Earl Swinney Jr. The Rev. Bill Brogan Sr. conducted the funeral Friday. Burial was in Ford Cemetery. Independence. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, was in charge. CLARA R. HOSKINS PONCHATOULA - Clara Ratcliff Hoskins, 92, died Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. A longtime resident of McComb, Miss., she was a former resident of Lake St. John and a native of Lincoln County, Miss. She is survived by one son, James R. Hoskins of Moss Point, Miss.; two daughters, Glenda H. Netterville of Ponchatoula and Launa H. Smith of Baton Rouge; nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, S.T. "Red" Hoskins; an infant son, five brothers, Alton, Fred, Steve, Decatar and an infant brother; and three sisters, Bertha R. Porter, Mae R. Smith and Willie Marie Hall. The Rev. Wayne Myers conducted the funeral Friday. Burial was in Hollywood Cemetery. Memorials may be sent to Palmer Home for Children, P.O. 746 Columbus, MS 39703. Catchings Funeral Home, McComb, was in charge. WILLIAM LESLIE MARTENS SR. NATALBANY - William Leslie Martens Sr., 96, died Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. A native of Natalbany, the dairyman was the oldest living member of Natalbany Baptist Church. He is survived by two daughters, Margaret M. Baker of Mansfield, Ohio, and Jane M. Jones Townsend of Hammond; three sons, William L. Martens Jr., Gordon Earl Martens and Luther P. Martens, all of Hammond; one sister, Louise M. Allen, of Hammond; 12 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jessie Wall Martens, and his parents. A graveside service was held Friday at Martin Cemetery in Natalbany. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Natalbany Baptist Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 99, Natalbany LA 70451-0099 or to a charity of one's choice. Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home of Hammond was in charge. JAMES MCFERRIN SR. GREENSBURG - James "Reggie" McFerrin Sr., 60, died Friday, Oct. 24, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. A native of Clinton, McFerrin formerly owned Reggie McFerrin Insurance Agencies and was currently chief civil deputy of the St. Helena Parish Sheriff's Department. He also served in the U.S. Army Reserve and the Merchant Marines. He is survived by his wife, Betty Alford McFerrin of Greensburg; two daughters, Wendy McFerrin Dover of Greensburg and Miranda McFerrin Spencer of Montpelier; two sons, James Reginald McFerrin Jr. and Timothy Wayne McFerrin, both of Greensburg; one brother, Thomas W. McFerrin; and eight grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Sherman Schley McFerrin; and his mother, Zera Henderson McFerrin. Visitation will be Monday at First Baptist Church from 6 to 10 p.m. and Tuesday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. Luther Stanford conducts the funeral at 1 p.m. Burial will be at Greensburg Cemetery. McKneely Funeral Home is in charge. October 27, 2003 * Joseph H. Carbo, 71, Lake Charles * Elva S. Cutrer, 74, Independence * Mary Madison McCarley, infant, Little Rock, Ark. * Leola McFadden, 82, Ponchatoula JOSEPH H. CARBO LAKE CHARLES - Joseph H. Carbo, 71, died Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2003. A native of Donaldsonville, he is survived by four sisters, Marie Ann Carbo LeBlanc, Helen Short, Nena Hebert and Priscilla Newman; and two brothers, Albert and Buck Babin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Morris Carbo and Nellie Morris; one brother, Boogie Morris; and one sister, Dianne Robinson. The funeral was Saturday at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Destrehan. Entombment was in the church cemetery. H.C. Alexander Funeral Home, Norco, was in charge. ELVA S. CUTRER INDEPENDENCE - Burial was Friday at Ford Cemetery in Independence for Elva S. Cutrer, 74, who died Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. A native of Natalbany and a housewife, she is survived by her husband, Cecil S. Cutrer of Independence; one daughter, Trudy A. Cefalu of Independence; and one son, Buster Morgan of Independence. She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl Swinney Sr. and Lula Mae Swinney; and one brother, Earl Swinney Jr. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, was in charge. MARY MADISON MCCARLEY LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - Infant Mary Madison McCarley, daughter of Clark and Carolyn Williams McCarley, died Sunday, Oct. 26, 2003. Other survivors include one brother, Clark McCarley Jr.; her paternal grandparents, Bob and Anne McCarley of Little Rock; her maternal grandmother, Gail Kazan of Hammond, and Kazan's husband, Aykut; her maternal grandfather, Bobby Williams of Baton Rouge; and her great-grandparents, B.B. McCarley of West Memphis, Ark., and James E. Hyatt Jr. of Osceola, Ark. The funeral will be Tuesday at 10 a.m. at Second Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Arkansas Children's Hospital, the Hydrocephalus Association, 870 Market St., Suite 705, San Francisco, CA 94102, or the charity of one's choice. Ruebel Funeral Home, Little Rock, Arkansas, is in charge. LEOLA MCFADDEN PONCHATOULA - New Iberia native Leola McFadden, 82, died Thursday, Oct. 23, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. Survivors include four daughters, Yvonne Redmond and Elvina Williams, both of Ponchatoula, Beulah Watkins of Houston and Ella Harrison of Baltimore; three sons, Arthur Watkins and Leroy McFadden Jr., both of Houston, and Melvin Watkins of Ponchatoula; 22 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and seven great-great- grandchildren. Visitation will Tuesday at N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, from 1 to 3 p.m. The Rev. Bruce Graves will conduct the funeral at New Zion Baptist Church, Ponchatoula, at 7 p.m. Dismissal will be Wednesday at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Holly Gardens Cemetery, Hammond. October 28, 2003 * Linda Ann Hudson Anthony, 58, Loranger * Marie Louise Colwart, 71, Albany * Myrna D. Creel, 72, Amite * John Louis Morel Jr., 81, Loranger * Julie Ann Adams Riley, 42, Macon, Ga. * Magnolia Robertson, 80, Ponchatoula * James Lamont Wesley, 34, Hammond LINDA ANN HUDSON ANTHONY LORANGER - Linda Ann Hudson Anthony, 58, died Monday, Oct. 20, 2003, at her home. She was a native of Bratt, Fla., and a restaurant manager. Survivors include three sons, Michael Dennis of Ponchatoula, Gary Dennis of Loranger and Mark Dennis of Madisonville; two sisters, Betty Merchant of East Brewton, Ala., and Marion Leonard of Grovehill, Ala.; five brothers, Arthur Hudson of Amelia, Clarence Hudson Jr., Charles, Terry and Troy Hudson, all of Merryville; and six grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, James H. "Snap" Anthony; her father, Clarence Hudson; her mother, Susan Inez Crawford Hudson; and two brothers, Johnny and Tony Hudson. Visitation will be Wednesday at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 to 9 p.m. and Thursday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. David Cutrer conducts the funeral at 2 p.m. Burial will be in Lawrence Memorial Gardens, Loranger. MARIE LOUISE COLWART ALBANY - Marie Louise Colwart, 71, died, Thursday, Oct. 23, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She is survived by her children, Diane Beaulax and William Ledet, both of Houma, Linda Wade of Greensburg, Dena Ledet of Franklinton and Stephen, Brian, Gerald and Clement Ledet, all of Albany; two brothers, Clarence Colwart Jr. and William Colwart Sr.; three sisters, Claire Difulco, Harriet Faucheux and Judith Suhur; 18 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother, Flavia C. Guillot; and her father, Clarence Colwart Sr. Visitation will be Thursday at Tharp-Sontheimer-Tharp Funeral Home, Metairie, from 9 a.m. until 11. A graveside service and burial will be at 1 p.m. at Holy Rosary Church Cemetery, Houma. MYRNA D. CREEL AMITE - Myrna D. Creel, 72, died Monday, Oct. 27, 2003, at her home. She was a native of Tylertown, Miss., and a housewife. She is survived by her husband, James R. Stephens of Amite; her children, David Lee Callihan of Benton, Tenn., Herbert Lynn Callihan of Greensburg, Sharon Marie Callihan of Bolivar, Delores Gail Callihan of Amite, Janice Mae Callihan of Tangipahoa, Kenneth Ernest Callihan and Bruce Callihan, both of Kentwood, and William Albert Callihan Jr. of Chesbrough; four sisters, Vivian Williams, Pauline Ridgedell and Juanita Creel, all of Bogalusa, and Gloria Jean Woods of Tylertown; two brothers, Ralph Creel of Cleveland, Tenn., and T.C. Creel Jr. of Crosby, Texas; and numerous grandchildren and great- grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son, Dennis Ray Callihan; one daughter, Debra Ann Lee; and three sisters, Hattie Lee Blackwell, Ruthie Lee Steele and Evie Lee Dunaway. Visitation will be Wednesday at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 to 10 p.m. and Thursday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Nobles Cemetery, Pine. JOHN LOUIS MOREL JR. LORANGER - John Louis Morel Jr., 81, died Monday, Oct. 27, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a U.S. Army World War II veteran, a member of the American Legion Post 47 of Ponchatoula and a member of the Electrical Workers Union 130. He is survived by his wife, Gloria Sibley Morel of Loranger, four daughters, Betty Hayden and Barbara Berne, both of Loranger, Yvonne Thomas of Franklinton, and Linda "Puddy" Poillion of Hammond; four sons, Carl Morel of Amite, and Robert Morel, Donald "Tabby" Morel and Jimmy Morel, all of Loranger; one brother, William "Bill" Morel of Sabastian, Fla.; 23 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Louis and Margaret Hollister Morel; and one grandchild. Visitation will be Wednesday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 8:30 a.m. until the funeral at 10:30. Burial will be in Loranger Community Cemetery. JULIE ANN ADAMS RILEY MACON, Ga. - Julie Ann Adams Riley, 42, died Thursday, Oct. 23, 2003, at the Regional Medical Center of Georgia. She was a native of Kenner and a homemaker. She is survived by her husband, Richard L. Riley of Georgia; one daughter, Jennifer Whipple of Georgia; two sisters, Roxanna Adams Kennedy of Springfield and Brandi Adams Osteen of Georgia; one brother, Lawrence P. Adams Jr. of Macon; her father, Lawrence P. Adams Sr. and stepmother, Debra Adams of Macon; her mother, Bessie Chase of Gray, Ga.; and her grandfather, Frank Hackler of Eunice. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Frank and Edith Adams; her grandmother, Doris Hackler; and one brother, Gary D. Adams. Bridges Funeral Home, Gray, is in charge. MAGNOLIA ROBERTSON PONCHATOULA - Magnolia Robertson, 80, died Thursday, Oct. 23, 2003, at Hammond Nursing Home, Hammond. A native of Clarksdale, Miss., she is survived by three daughters, Audrey R. Taylor of Oakland, Calif., Grace Embry of Ponchatoula and Nancy Delafosse of Grambling; one son, James Robertson of Hammond; 10 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Visitation will be Wednesday at N. A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, from 3 to 8 p.m. The Rev. Willie Gables Jr. will conduct the funeral Thursday at 11 a.m. at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, Hammond. Burial will be in Ponchatoula Cemetery. JAMES LAMONT WESLEY Burial was today at Holly Gardens Cemetery in Hammond for James Lamont Wesley, 34, who died Thursday, Oct. 23, 2003, at Northshore Regional Medical Center in Slidell. A native of Alameda, Calif., he is survived by his wife, Shuntayia Montgomery Wesley; his parents, James and Mary Ann Wesley; two daughters, Jamesha Wesley and Jacara Montgomery; one son, Jervonte Montgomery; one sister, Melissa Wesley; and one brother, Theodore Wheeler III. N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, was in charge. October 29, 2003 * Huey L. Williams, 73, Lafayette HUEY L. WILLIAMS LAFAYETTE - Huey L. Williams, 73, died Tuesday, Oct. 28, 203, at his home. A native of Amite, he was a longtime resident of New Orleans. He was a member and choir member of Lakeview Baptist Church. He was retired from Delta Airlines and was a U.S. Army veteran who served in Japan. Survivors include his wife, Mary Lou Allen Williams; one daughter, Julie Lynn Fossier; one son, Donald Benjamin Williams; one brother, Robert Williams; one sister, Katherine Lee Thom; and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lee Terry Williams Sr. and Katherine Weigle Williams; and one brother, Lee Terry Williams Jr. Visitation will be Thursday at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9 a.m. until the Rev. J. Richard Randels conducts the funeral at 3 p.m. Burial will be in Amite Cemetery, Amite. Memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church, 917 S. Buchanan St., Lafayette, LA 70501, Bible Study Fellowship, 19001 Huebner Road, San Antonio, TX 37258, or Hospice of Acadiana, 2000 Johnston St., Suite 2000, Lafayette, LA 70508. October 30, 2003 * Bertha Meaux Andrus, 75, Independence * Franklin Beckwith, 73, Ponchatoula * Joseph Scales Elliot, 84, River Ridge * Pamela Baham Hebert, 49, Ponchatoula * Burnita Richardson Knighten, 69, Hammond * Michael Edward Landry, 51, Hammond * Odey Byron Melvin Sr., 61, Amite * Edna Mae Robertson, 85, Kentwood * James Edward Williams Sr., 60, Kenner * Clara Mae Woolrdige, 67, St. Helena Parish BERTHA MEAUX ANDRUS INDEPENDENCE - Bertha Meaux Andrus, 75, died Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2003. She was a native of Crowley. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced with Harry McKneely & Son Funeral home, Hammond. FRANKLIN BECKWITH PONCHATOULA - Franklin Beckwith, 73, died Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2003. He was a native of Clay County, Ark., and a member of Pilgrim's Rest Church. He is survived by three daughters, Tamira Tippitt of Ponchatoula, Charlene Walker of Doniphan, Mo., and K.T. Roes of Kody, Wyo.; three sons, George Beckwith of Creal Springs, Ill., Robert Beckwith of Ashland, Ky., and Carl Beckwith of Fairdealing, Mo.; four brothers, Bud Beckwith of Union, Miss., Wes Beckwith of Doniphan, Ernie Beckwith of Godfrey, Ill., and Daniel Beckwith of Greenfield, Ill.; three sisters, Gertrude Beecher and Rhode Payne, both of Corning, Ark., and Sylvia King of St. Charles, Mo.; 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Zora Ray; and two sons, Timmy Beckwith and Wiley Beckwith. Visitation will be Friday at Edward's Funeral Home, Doniphan, from 5 to 8 p.m. The funeral will be Saturday at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in Post Oak Cemetery, McDougal, Ark. JOSEPH SCALES ELLIOT RIVER RIDGE - Joseph Scales Elliot, 84, died Thursday, Oct. 23, 2003, at Cannon Hospice. He was a native of Fordyce, Ark., and retired from the General Motors diesel motor division as district sales representative. He is survived by two daughters, Laura Jones and Leslie Elliot Smith; and three grandchildren. A private memorial will be held. PAMELA BAHAM HEBERT PONCHATOULA - Pamela Baham Hebert, 49, died Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2003, at her home. A native of New Orleans, she was employed by Leader Title Company of Hammond. She is survived by her husband, Joey Hebert of Ponchatoula; and one daughter, Erin Hebert Stewart of Ponchatoula. She was preceded in death by her parents, Milton and Margaret LeBourgeois Baham; and one brother, Robert Baham. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 7 to 10 p.m. The funeral will be Friday at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Ponchatoula Cemetery, Ponchatoula. BURNITA RICHARDSON KNIGHTEN Burnita Richardson Knighten, 69, died Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Roseland, a teacher and a homemaker. She is survived by one daughter, Shanette Marie Knighten of Hammond; four sons, Winford, Michael D. and Robert Knighten, all of Hammond, and Gaynor Knighten of Dallas; one sister, Lolita Caldwell of Raytown, Mo.; three brothers, Alonzo and Robert Lee, both of Roseland, and Charlie Richardson of New Orleans; and nine grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one sister, Pearl Richardson; one brother, Tennessee Richardson; her mother, Mary Alice Richardson; and her father, Alonzo Richardson Sr. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. Friday at Angelic Funeral home, Roseland. The funeral will be Saturday at 11 a.m. at Roseland Church of COGIC. Burial will be in Darlington Cemetery, Darlington. MICHAEL EDWARD LANDRY Michael Edward Landry, 51, died Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2003, in New Orleans. He was a native of Tickfaw. He is survived by his mother, Annie B. Landry of Hammond; one brother, Ronald "Pudgy" Landry of Springfield; and three sisters, Elizabeth "Sissy" Kyzar and Patricia "Pat" Johnson, both of Hammond, and Tammie Landry. He was preceded in death by his father, O.T. Landry; one sister, Dorothy Breland. Visitation will be Thursday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 10 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. Gary Dennis conducts the funeral at 11. Burial will be at Howze Cemetery. ODEY BYRON MELVIN SR. AMITE - Odey Byron Melvin Sr., 61, died Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2003, at his home. He was a native of Killian and twice retired. He was a steam fitter out of Union Local 60 in New Orleans and a correctional officer for the Hammond Police Department. He is survived by his mother, Ione Wild Hoey of Killian; his wife, Mary Gaeta Melvin of Amite; one daughter, Kristie Blades of Amite; four sons, Odey Byron "Peanut" Melvin Jr. of Killian, Ronnie Melvin and Wayland Wall Jr., both of Amite, and Sammy Hutchinson of Tickfaw; and eight grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Odey J. Melvin; and one son, Douglas L. Melvin. Visitation will be Friday at Killian Baptist Church from 9 a.m. until the funeral at 11, followed by burial will in the church cemetery. Geisler Funeral Home is in charge. EDNA MAE ROBERTSON KENTWOOD - Edna Mae Robertson, 85, died Sunday, Oct. 26, 2003, at Kentwood Manor Nursing Home. She was a native of Kentwood. She is survived by her daughter, Minnie Magee of Kentwood; and nine grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father, Simpson Robertson; her mother, Kittie Wilson; four brothers, Richmond, Jim, Taft and Eddie Robertson; two sisters, Alice Dunn and Minnie Bickham; and one grandchild. Visitation will be Saturday at Temple Chapel Baptist Church from noon until the Rev. Joshua Brown conducts the funeral at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Hope Cemetery, Kentwood. Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, is in charge. JAMES EDWARD WILLIAMS SR. KENNER - James Edward "Jimmy" Williams Sr., 60, died Wednesday Oct. 29, 2003. He was a native of Ponchatoula, delegate to Greater New Orleans AFLCIO, member of Square and Compass Lodge of Kenner No. 417, past master of John Wayne Lodge and the Jefferson Parish Democratic Executive Committee. He was also president of Iron Workers Local 58 and union organizer/coordinator for Iron Workers Apprenticeship Program, and "Zoom" of the Jerusalem Shriner's Clown Unit. He is survived by his wife, Rose Marie Collura; one son, James "JimBo" Williams Jr.; two daughters, Cindy Williams Brower and Jamie Williams Dallimore; one brother, David W. Williams; and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Seth Thomas Williams Jr. and Ave' Dutton Williams. Visitation will be tonight at Lake Lawn Park Mausoleum from 6 to 9 and Friday from 9 a.m. until the funeral at 11. Burial will follow in Lake Lawn Park Mausoleum. Family and friends may sign the guess book at www.lakelawnmetairie.com. CLARA MAE WOOLRIDGE ST. HELENA PARISH - Clara Mae Woolridge, 67, died Sunday, Oct. 26, 2003, at her home. She was a native of Montpelier. She is survived by her four sons, Willie Wheeler Sr. of Dennis Mills, William Wheeler Jr. of Kentwood, Lawrenceen Wheeler Sr. of Baton Rouge and Bruce Wheeler of Fernwood, Miss.; four daughters, Janice Brooks, Sandra Zanders and Shelia Brooks, all of Montpelier, and Zenobia Williams of Dennis Mills; two sisters, Laura Knighten of Hammond and Della Garrison of Amite; and one brother, Larnceen Woolridge of Mansfield; 30 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father, Lee Woolridge; her mother, Seleanor Woolridge; and three sisters, Rose and Mary Brown and Irene Lee. Visitation will be Friday at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, from 5 to 9 p.m. The Rev. Kermit Brown will conduct the funeral Saturday at Morgan Chapel AME Church at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Mount Zion Cemetery, Montpelier. October 31, 2003 * Bertha Maux Andrus, 75, Independence * Wildon McDanile, 82, Kentwood * Wilbur C. Watkins, 92, Fenton BERTHA MEAUX ANDRUS INDEPENDENCE - Bertha Meaux Andrus, 75, died Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2003. She was a native of Crowley. She is survived by her husband, Lawrence L. Andrus of Independence; two sons, Glen J. Andrus of Ferriday and John Gary Andrus of Baton Rouge; two daughters, Ellen Motichek of Galvez and Katie Roy of Independence; two sisters, Annabell Alpha of Bunkie and Elaine Rock of Henderson, Nev.; two brothers, W.L. Meaux of Mississippi and Chester L. Meaux of Hattiesburg, Miss.; eight grandchildren and two grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dupre and Opheleau LeLeux Meaux; two sisters, Beulah Buecker and Nettie Guillot; and three brothers, Hirey Meaux, Robert Allen Meaux and Dupre Meaux Jr. Visitation will be Sunday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 10 p.m. and Monday from 8 until 10 a.m. The Rev. Paul McDuffy will conduct the funeral at Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church at 10:30. Burial will be in St. Dominic Catholic Church Cemetery. WILDON MCDANIEL KENTWOOD - Wildon McDaniel, 82, died Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2003, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a dairy farmer and U.S. Army World War II veteran. He is survived by nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Thelma Blades McDaniel; one brother, Lavoice McDaniel; and his parents, Claude and Lizzie McDaniel. Visitation will be Friday at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 6 to 9 p.m. and Friday from 9 until 11 a.m. The Rev. Nathan Albano will conduct the funeral at 11:30 at Lewiston Baptist Church, Kentwood. Burial will be in Spring Creek Cemetery, Spring Creek. WILBUR C. WATKINS FENTON - Wilbur C. Watkins, 92, died today, Oct. 31, 2003, at St. Patricks Hospital in Lake Charles following a stroke on the way to a fishing trip. A native of Welsh, he was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was the manager of Watkins Farms, a retired rice farmer, a flying farmer and civil air patrol pilot. He was also a member of United Methodist Church of Welsh. Survivors include his second wife, Yvonne Carter; two daughters, Frances Chauvin of Hammond and Jackie Fogleman of Crowley; two sons, Bobby Watkins of Welsh and Eddie Watkins of Lake Charles; one brother, Elbert Watkins of Baytown, Texas; 15 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife of 65 years, Audrey Jones; his parents, Samuel Marshall Watkins and Eva Robinson Watkins; and one brother, Orville Watkins. Visitation will be at Hixson Funeral Home, Welsh, from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday. The funeral will be at United Methodist Church Sunday in Welsh at 2 p.m. followed by burial in Oaklawn Cemetery, Welsh. Memorial donations may be made to the charity of one's choice.