The Alexandria Senior High Trojans, Peabody Warhorses and Tioga Indians boys basketball teams are high seeds in the LHSAA Select playoff brackets set Monday and won’t begin postseason until next week.

Six other parish boys teams will be playing first-round contests Friday night.

ASH is the No. 2 seed in Division I. Peabody has the second seed in Division II. Tioga is No. 7 in Division I.

Playing Friday games are Buckeye, Glenmora, Menard, Northwood, Oak Hill and Pineville.

Friday first-round boys playoff games involving Rapides Parish teams (seedings in parentheses):

SELECT DIVISION I

Pineville (20) at Lafayette (13) 

SELECT DIVISON II

St. Charles Catholic (23) at Buckeye (10) 

SELECT DIVISION III

Menard (23) at Capitol (10) 

SELECT DIVISION IV

Block (17) at Northwood (16) 

CLASS B

Episcopal of Acadiana (19) at Glenmora (14)

Doyline (18) at Oak Hill (15).

William J. “Bill” Blythe Jr. had recently been honorably discharged from the Army and had just been hired as an equipment salesman by the Mankee Equipment Company of Chicago.  Immediately following World War II, so many soldiers were returning home and looking for work that jobs were scarce.  29-year-old Bill could find no work in his hometown of Hope, Arkansas, and was lucky to find work even if it required him to relocate to the windy city.  It could not have come at a better time.  Bill’s wife, 22-year-old Virginia Dell Cassiday, was six months pregnant.  After calling home with the happy news, Bill began the 750-mile drive back to Hope, Arkansas, to prepare the family for the move.  

Just before midnight on May 17, 1946, Bill had driven about half of the 755 miles to Hope when, about three miles west of Sikeston, Missouri, one of the front tires on Bill’s 1942 Buick sedan blew out.  Bill lost control of the car, and it rolled over twice before coming to a stop on the side of the Brown Spur drainage ditch along Highway 60.  Sikeston was surrounded by drainage ditches to help prevent flooding.  Bill suffered a head injury and crawled out of the wrecked car.  He could hear the sounds of passing cars and could see their headlights as they passed.  He began crawling up the steep embankment toward the highway.  As he was crawling, he slipped and fell into the drainage ditch which contained four feet of water.  There, he drowned.

Virginia was devastated.  Three months after the accident, she had her child and named him William J. Blythe III in honor of her late husband. Everyone called him Billy.  Virginia, now a single parent, went to nursing school in New Orleans, Louisiana.  Virginia’s parents took care of Billy while she was away.  In 1950, Virginia returned to Hope and went to work as a nurse.  In that same year, she met and married a car dealership owner named Roger.  In 1956, Roger and Virginia had a son whom they named Roger Jr.  At some point, Billy Blythe began using his stepfather’s last name, and, in 1962, Billy legally changed his last name so that he and his half-brother would have the same last name.  In the following year, Billy was selected to be a delegate to Boys Nation, a special youth leadership conference held in Washington D.C.  Billy was among the other boys from Boys Nation who, along with the Girls Nation, were invited to the Rose Garden at the White House to meet President John F. Kennedy.  Billy was one of the first in line to shake JFK’s hand.  Billy said later that meeting JFK had a profound impact on his life. 

Imagine just for a second that Bill Blythe’s car wreck never occurred.  Billy Blythe III would probably have been born in Chicago.  The whole trajectory of his life would have been different.  He probably would not have become President of the United States.  If he had, we would know him as Bill Blythe rather than Bill Clinton.        

Sources:

1.      Daily American Republic (Poplar Bluff, Missouri), May 18, 1946, p.1.

2.     “It All Began in a Place Called Hope: Biography of the President Bill Clinton,” National Archives, accessed February 15, 2026, https://clintonwhitehouse5.archives.gov/WH/EOP/OP/html/Hope.html.

Baton Rouge, LA-Governor Landry formally requested on Feb. 23 that the Office for Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Education’s investigation be expanded to include every public institution of higher education in Louisiana to ensure full compliance with federal law across the state. Letter attached.

“Let me be clear: Louisiana is done with woke DEI policies. Discrimination against ANY student will not be tolerated,” said Governor Landry. “This issue began under the previous administration, and we are fixing it. That is why, I’ve formally requested that the investigation be expanded to EVERY public higher education institution in Louisiana. If there are violations of federal law anywhere in our system, we want them corrected.”

A Celebration of Life and Remembrance for Thomas Wayne Cartwright will be held at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at Journey Church, Pineville with Pastor James Greer officiating. The visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Graveside services will be held at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Pineville under the direction of Gallagher Funeral Home.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be Jace Martinez, Miguel Saldana, Marshall Dougherty, Bo Nix, Greg Whitley, Joshua Vickers, John Wrubel, and Mike Farias.

Honorary pallbearers will be David Cartwright, Michael Blades, Robbie Whalen, and Gary Strickland.

Mr. Cartwright, 72, was born on June 18, 1953, and passed from this life on Saturday, February 21, 2026, in his home surrounded by family and friends.

Tommy was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, faithful friend, and godly man who finished the race with steadfast faith. Whether in his home, church, workplace, or community, Tommy led with integrity, quiet strength, and unwavering compassion.

Tommy’s Bible was well-worn, his prayers sincere, and his service consistent. He lived out his faith in tangible, life-changing ways. He did not seek recognition; he simply sought to be faithful. Through Celebrate Recovery at Journey Church, he walked alongside those seeking healing and freedom, offering hope without judgment and truth wrapped in grace. In his small group ministry, ALTARed, he believed real transformation happened in authentic community, where people could be known, loved, and prayed for.

Tommy’s compassion extended beyond the church walls. Through CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate he stood in the gap for vulnerable children, advocating faithfully and fiercely for those who could not speak for themselves His heart for the broken was clearly seen in his involvement with the nonprofit ministry, While We’re Waiting, a faith-based support group for grieving parents There, he served with deep empathy and a hope rooted in Christ. Tommy didn’t see grief as something to solve, but as a journey to walk-side by side, hand in hand.

Those who knew Tommy remember his listening ear, his gentle wisdom, and his unwavering commitment to love as Christ loved.

Tommy was preceded in death by his parents, James and Rachel Cartwright, and son, Chad Martinez. Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Susan Frantom Cartwright; son, Jason Martinez (Lynn); grandchildren, Makayla Methvin, Jace Martinez, and Brooklyn Martinez; sister, Sharon Cartwright Kemfort, brother, David Cartwright (Rhonda), sister, Cynthia Cartwright Early, and a host of nieces and nephews.

Though our hearts ache in his absence, we rejoice in the promise he held so firmly – that to be absent in the body is to be present in the Lord. His life echoes the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Celebrate Recovery at Journey Church.

Graveside services celebrating the life of Elia Setnicky were held on Monday, February 23, 2026 at Greenwood Memorial Park in Pineville with Father Dale Meade officiating. Internment was under the direction of Gallagher Funeral Home of Ball.

Ms. Setnicky is preceded in death by her parents, Otilla and Thomas Cantu; brothers, Robert, Rod, Tommy, and Frank.

Those left to cherish her memory include her son, John Setnicky; daughter, Deborah Tabor, and husband, William III; siblings, Johnny, David, Elidia, Elivia, Billy Jean, and Christy. She is also survived by grandchildren, William IV and wife Meghan, Amanda and husband Corey, and Michael; great grandchildren, Charlotte, Henry, Palmer, Carter, and Saylor.

Elia was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend whose life was defined by love, creativity, faith, and devotion to others. She spent much of her life caring for those around her, including her many siblings, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and even God’s smallest creatures. Whether nurturing her family or rescuing an abandoned baby bird or squirrel, Elia’s heart was always open.

Her faith was an important and guiding part of her life. She previously served as president of the St. Nicholas Society at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, where she devoted countless hours to serving her parish community. Her service reflected the deep and steady faith that shaped the way she lived and loved.

In her younger years, Elia worked in cosmetology, a profession well suited to her artistic spirit and love of helping others feel beautiful. Largely self-taught in many of her creative talents, she became an accomplished painter and sketch artist. Her artwork proudly hangs in the homes of her family as treasured reminders of her creativity and love. When she was not creating, she could often be found tending to her beloved plants, taking brisk walks, horseback riding, or fishing with those she loved.

There was nothing Elia cherished more than a baby. Affectionately known as “Maw Maw,” a title she wore with pride, she found her greatest joy in being a grandmother and great-grandmother. She inspired her grandchildren to appreciate the beauty of nature, to explore art, and to gather in the kitchen to cook and create together. She had a remarkable gift for seeing God’s beauty in the natural world and encouraging others to see it too.

Elia was also a fashionista at heart, always arriving at gatherings dressed in her most fabulous outfit. She loved to dance and brought joy and energy wherever she went.

Elia’s legacy lives on in the love she gave so freely, the beauty she created, and the family she cherished above all else. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

The City of Pineville announced on Feb. 23 it has applied for $750,000 in federal BUILD funds. This funding request, announced by Mayor Joe Bishop, is dedicated to the planning, engineering, and design phases of the Central Louisiana Hospital Redevelopment Project, which aims to revitalize 350 acres of land adjacent to downtown Pineville.

For nearly a century, Pineville served as part of a regional healthcare hub. However, the relocation of major state hospitals has left behind aging infrastructure and a disconnected internal roadway network that functions as a barrier to new growth.

The proposed project addresses these challenges through two primary components:

• Component A: Planning for a new, continuous corridor extending Napoleon Boulevard approximately 1,700 feet to Rainbow Drive, featuring a new 50-foot bridge over Spanish Bayou.
• Component B: Designing a new internal roadway extending approximately 2,500 linear feet from West Shamrock Drive through the former Central Louisiana State Hospital campus.

“This grant is a pivotal moment for Pineville’s future,” said Mayor Joe Bishop. “By securing these funds and working with the Pineville Downtown Development District, we are building a foundation for growth. This strategic plan addresses our transportation hurdles to improve safety, reduce travel costs, and signal to investors that Pineville is ready for economic prosperity.”

The project is designed to improve daily life for Pineville workers who commute by vehicle. By eliminating dead ends and fragmented connections, the City will reduce fuel waste, shorten travel times, and provide emergency responders with vital route redundancy.

This application builds on existing momentum, including recent private investments like the Giles Hyundai dealership, Y-NOT-STOP, and commercial office growth activity. By modernizing the infrastructure surrounding these sites, Pineville aims to transform underutilized institutional land into a vibrant, mixed-use urban core.

By JIM BUTLER

Alexandria has for now settled the reapportionment issue but an aspect apparently remains unresolved in district court.

The city’s request for cost reimbursements and damages from what it claimed was a baseless suit has yet to be heard.

According to court records, a January 9 order set a hearing on the city’s petition for 9:30 this morning in Judge Mary Doggett’s court.

Records available online Sunday showed civil rules on her docket today though not specifically listing the city matter.

The journey to this point began two years ago. 

District 4 Councilwoman Lizzie Felter proposed in March 2024 to re-reapportion council election districts in order to put her residence in the district she represents.

After the ensuing hoorah the council, 4-3, in April 2024 redrew lines drawn two years earlier.

Three citizens, represented by Malcolm Larvadain, sued; the city on April 12, 2024 filed its reconventional demand, according to records.

Larvadain and two others were elected in November-December 2024 to the council and the majority on the issue switched to 4-3 opposing the new boundaries.

By October 2025 it was a foregone conclusion that a pending vote would again shift the lines.

Councilman Larvadain on October 15, 2025 moved to dismiss the matter as resolved or no longer being pursued, according to his filing.

On October 21 he moved to withdraw as counsel and to have Tiffany Sanders enrolled as plaintiffs’ attorney.  The court so ordered.

On October 23, according to the record, Doggett, per Larvadain’s motion, dismissed the case.

On October 24 the city learned of the dismissal, which in effect cancelled a scheduled October 27 hearing on its counter measure.

In November 2025 it appealed to Doggett, noting in its motion the inadvertent dismissal of its counterclaims for damages, costs and sanctions.

Records show Doggett on December 4 vacated her dismissal order relative only to the city’s claim.

Also in December, the City Council passed the ordinance, 4-3, reverting the election district boundaries to pre-2024 lines.

Mayor Jacques Roy vetoed and the council sustained. A super-majority of five votes is required by the City Charter to override. The override vote, to no surprise, was 4-3. 

Whatever and whenever a resolution occurs it will not change boundaries for this fall’s election in Felter’s District 4. Also on the ballot are mayor and one of two at-large seats.

Community members gathered today for the annual Lunch for Law Enforcement, a meaningful event dedicated to honoring the lives and legacy of Jeremy “Jay” Carruth and David Ezernack, whose sacrifice will never be forgotten.

The event also recognized the contributions of Charles and Pat Carruth, who open their home each year in loving memory of their son, Jay. Organizers praised their kindness, strength, and continued commitment to honoring his legacy, calling it a gesture that means more than words can express.

The gathering provided an opportunity for community members to reflect on the dedication and service of law enforcement officers who protect and serve each day, and to show appreciation for the men and women of local police departments.

Chad Van Huis has been named the new principal of Oak Hill High School, bringing 18 years of experience within Rapides Parish schools to his role.

Van Huis began his administrative career as Lead Teacher at ASH and later served as Assistant Principal at Northwood High School from 2017 to 2025. He said his time at Northwood helped him build a strong foundation in instructional leadership and school culture.

“I’m looking forward to using my experience to raise the bar and help Oak Hill reach new heights — meeting and working with new faculty, staff, students, and especially the community,” Van Huis said.

His vision for Oak Hill emphasizes collaboration and trust, focusing on empowering staff to achieve student success. “As principal, I want to elevate my staff by being a steward of culture who builds a high-trust, collaborative environment. While our ultimate goal is student success, I believe we achieve this by empowering the adults with whom I work,” he added.

Eight Rapides Parish teams are in action tonight in the second round of the LHSAA girls basketball playoffs.

After enjoying first-round byes last Thursday, Buckeye and Menard play home games, both tipping off at 6 o’clock. Another parish team, 13^th-seeded Rapides, goes to No. 4 Menard in a Select Division III contest. Buckeye, seeded fifth in Select Division II, hosts No. 12 Loranger.

In Select Division I, both local teams travel to Lafayette.  ASH, seeded 12^th, plays at No. 5 Acadiana today at 5:30, and 10^th-seeded Tioga goes to No. 7 Teurlings Catholic in a  6 o’clock game.

A Class B matchup sends 10^th-seeded Glenmora to No. 7 Hathaway with a 6 o’clock tipoff.  No. 17 Oak Hill travels to top-seeded Bell City at 6 in another Class B game.

In Class C, No. 18 Plainview goes to second-seeded Calvin in a 6 p.m. contest.

Boys playoff brackets will be announced by the LHSAA this morning.

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

Feb. 22

Javon Dn’que McGlory, 29, Alexandria – two counts domestic abuse battery, domestic abuse battery with child present, domestic abuse battery strangulation, aggravated second degree battery, simple battery, concealed negligent carry handgun, three counts contempt of court, $268,500 bail;

Gabrielle Marie Meadows, 31, Pineville – OWI first offense, speeding, improper lane usage, $1,200 bail.

Feb. 21

Darrell Dwon Balthazar, 39, Alexandria – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, theft, safety belt violation, six counts contempt of court, $14,600 bail;

Patrice Diane Bradford, 63, Shreveport – OWI second offense, restrict tire equipment, open container, expired MVI sticker, $1,800 bail;

Keldrick Deion Gaines, 38, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, contempt of court, $6,500 bail;

Matt Charles Masters, 43, Marksville – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail;

Johnathan Paul McKithern, 33, Ball – possession of CDS, contempt on non-support, pedestrians on interstate, $50,500 bail;

George Noil, 40, Alexandria – aggravated assault domestic abuse, stalking, unauthorized entry of inhabited dwelling, no bail data;

Ernest Ray Sheppard Jr., 42, Alexandria – OWI first offense, speeding, $1,100 bail;

Antoine Deshown Tuco, 34, Alexandria – theft of a motor vehicle, two counts simple burglary, no bail data;

Addyson Belle Wilson, 19, Hineston – second degree battery, no bail data.

Feb. 20

Brandon Nathaniel Andrews, 42, Deville – contempt of court, $15,000 bail;

Christin Leon Angel, 24, Ball – simple burglary, possession of firearm by a convicted felon, $50,000 bail;

Breanna Nicole Baham, 28, Pineville – two counts theft, criminal conspiracy, no bail data;

Taurus Contrell Brown Sr., 45, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, paraphernalia, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, resisting an officer, bicycle lamps, $9,600 bail;

Deonta Latroy Hammond, 26, Alexandria – criminal conspiracy, aggravated burglary, burglary of inhabited dwelling, identity theft, $52,000 bail;

Jonathan Charles Harris, 41, Alexandria – theft, two counts contempt of court, resisting an officer, $3,000 bail;

Lindsey Erin James, 38, Alexandria – two counts theft, simple battery, criminal conspiracy, $2,000 bail;

Danny Gene Lachney, 47, Marksville – theft, criminal trespass, contempt of court, $101,000 bail;

Jessie Ray Onishea Jr., 50, Pineville – domestic abuse battery, contempt of court, $26,500 bail;

Kierron Ladarius Richardson, 32, Pineville – aggravated assault with a firearm, possession of firearm by convicted felon, battery on officer, resisting an officer, $101,000 bail;

Michael Wayne Rogers, 58, Alexandria – three counts contempt of court, $15,000 bail;

Howlisha Shinnell Self, 41, Alexandria – aggravated second degree battery, two counts contempt of court, $18,000 bail;

Darrius Jontell Thomas, 29, Alexandria – possession of CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of marijuana, concealed negligent carry handgun, resisting an officer, flight from an officer, tail lamps red light, contempt of court, $20,100 bail.

Feb. 19

Ray Dale Ashlock, 32, Ball – two counts distributing of drug paraphernalia under 17, two counts possession of CDS, two counts producing manufacturing distributing of CDS, bicycle lamps and reflectors, parole violations, $3,600 bail;

Jarvis Jarrell Flanagan Sr., 49, Alexandria – possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, possession of firearm by convicted felon, illegal carry firearm with drugs, Louisiana fugitive, three counts contempt of court, $109,000 bail;

Kista Keontae Garrett, 27, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, two counts contempt of court, $6,500 bail;

Clinton Benford Germany II, 48, Deville – possession of marijuana, possession of CDS, obstructing public passages, $2,500 bail;’

Anthony William Gilmore, 34, Boyce – possession of firearm by convicted felon, obstruction of justice, resisting an officer, $18,000 bail;

Michael Steven Hargrove, 44, Alexandria – second degree murder, burglary of an inhabited dwelling, two counts failure to appear, parole violations, $1.06 million bail;

Michelle Leann Lowe, 39, Boyce – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, obstruction of justice, five counts contempt of court, $47,500 bail;

Robert Edwin Maxwell, 64, Alexandria – OWI third offense, $50,000 bail;

Hank Odom, 62, Forest Hill – possession of CDS, contempt of court, $4,000 bail;

Ialiyah Shikia Destina Richard, 23, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery with child presrnt, criminal damage to property, contempt of court, $4,500 bail;

Kyle Serialle, 36, Pineville – possession of CDS, obstruction of justice, resisting an officer, possession of drug paraphernalia, Louisiana fugitive, $5,000 bail;

Franklin Kevin Smith, 57, Pineville – OWI first offense, six counts contempt of court, $1,000 bail;

Parker Charles Vernon, 28, Alexandria – two counts violation of protective orders (second/subsequent), $100,000 bail;

Tina L. Whatley, 42, Alexandria – speeding, obstruction of justice, operating a vehicle under suspension for certain prior offenses, flight from an officer, running a stop sign, theft, possession of CDS, probation violation, no insurance, $44,800 bail;

Brittany Lynne Woodard, 39, Alexandria – unauthorized entry into place of business, two counts failure to appear, $27,000 bail.

Feb. 18

Darian Michael Chaisson, 28, Glenmora – simple assault intimidating, $25,000 bail;

Markedriz De’Undre Howard, 17, Alexandria – possession of handgun by a juvenile, concealed negligent carry handgun, $5,500 bail;

Marques Dcortez Joseph, 30, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior offenses, improper turn, probation violation, $3,600 bail;

Clayton Robert Lamkin, 29, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery with child present, six counts unlawful communication, violation of protective order (violent), five counts violation of protective orders nonviolent (second/subsequent),  public intimidation/retaliation, domestic abuse battery, resisting an officer, $118,000 bail;

Jamaar Antonio Payne, 43, Montegut – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, cocaine, fentanyl, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of paraphernalia, transactions involving proceedings from drug offenses, possession of firearm by convicted felon, $216,500 bail;

Donderrick Joseph Prier, 44, Mansura – domestic abuse battery strangulation, Louisiana fugitive, three counts contempt of court, $5,000 bail;

Ashley Provost, 23, Alexandria – simple battery, seven counts contempt of court, $103,500 bail;

Biron Ricardo Reed, 38, Alexandria – unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, disturbing the peace, $4,000 bail;

Christopher B. Spencer, 58, Oakdale – OWI first offense, improper turn, open container, possession of marijuana, $1,700 bail;

Michael Doyle White, 46, Deville – domestic abuse battery strangulation, $10,000 bail;

Korion D’aquan Williams, 21, Alexandria – possession of firearm by convicted felon, aggravated assault, possession of CDS, resisting an officer, obstruction of justice, $28,500 bail.

Jyllian and Meredith Beran made history on Feb. 20 by becoming the first female Scouts in Rapides Parish to earn the rank of Eagle Scout. The achievement was celebrated during a Court of Honor at St. Francis & Anne’s Catholic Church.

The sisters were recognized for their dedication, perseverance, leadership, and commitment to service—qualities that exemplify the highest standards of Scouting.

Scoutmaster Gabi Stiltner and Troop 626 were acknowledged for their mentorship, and the Berans’ parents were credited for providing guidance and support that helped make this milestone possible.

State Representative Mike Johnson attended the ceremony, calling it an “uplifting experience” and congratulating the sisters on their historic accomplishment.

It is with heavy hearts but profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Reverend Donald J. Gauthier, Sr., who departed this world on February 20, 2026, at the age of 86, at his cherished home in Alexandria, Louisiana. Born on July 20, 1939, Donald was a guiding light to all who knew him, most notably as a beloved husband, father, and dedicated minister.

The funeral services to honor Donald’s life will take place on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Hope Baptist Church, with Brother Rusty Thrift officiating. Following the service, he will be laid to rest in Alexandria Memorial Gardens, under the direction of Hixson Brothers, Alexandria.

The family requests that visitation be held at Hope Baptist Church on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until service time.

Donald’s legacy is beautifully illuminated by the love he shared with his wife of many years, Carol Estes Gauthier, who stood by his side through life’s joys and challenges. Together, they cultivated a family rooted in faith and love. He is survived by his sons, Donald Gauthier, Jr., and David Gauthier, along with his devoted daughter-in-law, Patty. The laughter and light that will forever echo in their lives are embodied in his grandchildren—Brittany, David Jr., and his precious great-granddaughter, Annabell.

In addition to his loved ones, Donald is greeted in eternity by his parents, Amet Pierre and Cessna Bordelon Gauthier, and his dear brother, Marshall Pierre Gauthier.

The pallbearers honored to serve will be George Alford, Robert Bruce, Matthew Phillips, David Gauthier, Jr., Mark Poe, and Chad Wells.

In this moment of sorrow, we reflect on a life rich in service and devotion, where Donald Gauthier not only preached but lived out his faith with grace. His passion for the scriptures and tireless pursuit of truth have left an indelible mark on many hearts, making his memory a source of comfort and inspiration.

William Joseph (Billy) Liberto, Sr., 90, passed away peacefully and went to be with the Lord on February 15, 2026.

Born in Alexandria, on March 22, 1935, to Charles and Viola Liberto, William attended Bolton High School, where he was a standout on the baseball, football, basketball, and track teams. After graduating, the right-handed pitcher signed a contract with the Brooklyn Dodgers and was assigned to the Shawnee Hawks of the Dodgers farm system. He was promoted to the Union City Dodgers, in Union City, TN, where he married his high school sweetheart, Sammie Jean Stroup. After four years in the minors, William and Sammie returned home to start a family.

Back in Alexandria, William worked as a salesman for Firestone and later managed the contract sales department for Sears & Roebuck. In the early 1980’s, he entered the restaurant industry as a franchisee of Stark’s family restaurant, and later Dairy Queen. With the help of his wife and children, he owned and operated multiple DQ restaurants across Central Louisiana and also brought the Bless Your Heart franchise to Alexandria. He was elected to and served on the Rapides Parish School Board and was a high school football referee for many years.

Family was the most important thing in his life, and he loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. William’s favorite hobbies included fishing, gardening, woodworking, and watching sports. A long-time member of the First United Methodist Church of Alexandria, William assisted on many church projects and in his later years enjoyed his time as a member of the church choir.

William is preceded in death by his father, Charles Liberto, Sr.; his mother Viola Liberto, his wife, Sammie Jean Liberto, daughter, Kathy Liberto Richardson, daughter, Tammy Liberto Fearrand, brother, Charles Liberto, Jr., sister Patricia Liberto, sister, Janelle Liberto Hendrix, and wife, Dorothy Corley Liberto.

Those left to cherish his memory include daughter, Cheryl Liberto Sooter (Rod), son, William Liberto, Jr.; grandchildren, Ricky Richardson (Stephanie), Danielle Liberto, Tiffany Herrington, Michael Fearrand, Jr. (Sydney), Gabrielle Liberto Moss (Matthew); stepdaughter, Tracy Ryder (Butch), stepson, Don Corley, Jr. (Dana); many nieces, nephews, and dearly beloved great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held in Crowell Chapel at First United Methodist Church of Alexandria, 2727 Jackson Street, on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m, with Reverend Kennon Pickett officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 a.m. Honorary pallbearers include Rod Sooter, Lawyer Richardson, Kayne Richardson, Judah Richardson, Dylon Feazell, Logan Feazell, and Butch Ryder.

In lieu of flowers, the ever-frugal William would rather you save your money. However, if you insist, please consider making a donation to the First United Methodist Church of Alexandria.

Patrol deputies responded to a reported shooting Thursday afternoon in the 500 block of Bayou Maria Road in Pineville. Deputies were dispatched on Feb. 19 around 4:27 pm to the area after receiving a report of a subject who had sustained a gunshot wound. The suspect had left the scene prior to deputies’ arrival.

Deputies provided medical aid to the victim until Pafford Ambulance personnel arrived and assumed treatment. The victim was transported to a local hospital. The extent of injuries has not been released.

Sheriff’s detectives and the Crime Scene Unit responded to continue the investigation.

Authorities said no further information is available at this time. Additional details will be released as they become available.

The Alexandria Water Department issued a boil water advisory on Feb. 19 for all properties along Alex Mall Drive following repairs to a 6-inch water line that caused a temporary loss of water pressure.

According to Barrett Dezendorf, Superintendent of Water Operations, the disruption may have compromised water quality in the affected area. The advisory is effective immediately and will remain in place until further notice.

Residents and businesses in the advisory area are advised to disinfect water before consumption, including for drinking, ice, brushing teeth, and food preparation. Water should be boiled for one full minute in a clean container once it reaches a rolling boil. Tips for improving taste include shaking, pouring between containers, or adding a small pinch of salt per quart.

Once the advisory is lifted, residents and businesses should:

• Run cold-water faucets for one minute

• Run drinking water fountains for one minute

• Flush automatic icemakers by making and discarding three batches of ice

• Regenerate water softeners

• Run directly connected water coolers for five minutes

For more details and a map of the affected area, contact the Alexandria Water Department.