Father remains in jail after son accidentally shot, killed

By JIM BUTLER

Cartavis Austin, age 25, remains in jail, accused of actions eventually leading to the death of his son Londen, age 4.

The father was arrested May 10, the day after Londen was killed when a handgun the boys found in their Houston Street home discharged.

Police said Londen and another child were playing in the residence following a birthday party when the tragedy occurred.

The father is charged with illegally possessing a stolen firearm and being a felon in possession of a firearm. He is also charged as a parole violator.

Londen’s mother, LaToya Washington, has a GoFundMe account active to assist her and four surviving sons moving forward.

The father is being held under $200,000 bail.

His legal history dates to 2020 and includes a count of attempted second-degree murder among a number of felony charges.


Alexandria International Airport celebrates return of United Air service to Houston

Alexandria International Airport (AEX) hosted a gate-site celebration at the terminal to mark the return of United Airlines service to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston. The new, twice-a-day, nonstop United Express flights, operated by SkyWest Airlines, provide increased connections and access for travelers.

Nearly 100 attendees gathered to greet the first arriving passengers from Houston, hear from airport and airline executives and community stakeholders, and bid farewell to the first departing passengers. The England Airpark Fire Department provided water cannon salutes for both flights.

“The return of United service to Houston is a major milestone for AEX and a direct response to the needs of our business and leisure travelers,” stated England Economic and Industrial Development District Executive Director Ralph Hennessy. “When an airline invests in our community, it enhances our economic advantage through business expansion, job creation, and tourism, allowing us to compete on a larger stage. We are proud to partner with SkyWest and United to restore this vital connection to our region.”

“We’re excited to bring this new United Express service to Alexandria,” said Cody Thomas, Managing Director of Market Development at SkyWest Airlines. “Having direct access to Houston will make it simple and convenient for travelers to connect to hundreds of destinations worldwide on United’s global network.”

Customers may book flights from AEX to IAH at united.com or by calling United reservations at 800.UNITED.1 (800-864-8331). United’s MileagePlus® loyalty program members can earn rewards for flights.


Taking a Memorial Day holiday break from publishing Monday

Arlington National; Courtesy of the National Guard

While America pauses for a long weekend to pay tribute to fallen soldiers, people around the country will take a break from their regular work schedules.

That includes the Journal staff.

There will be no Memorial Day edition published Monday. We’ll be back Tuesday morning with the regular daily update, free and e-mailed to you for your morning coffee.

Thanks for reading your Journal. Join us this weekend honoring those brave military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country.


Law enforcement agencies, community groups support Special Olympics Torch Run in Alexandria

Members of several law enforcement agencies and community organizations gathered Thursday in support of the Special Olympics Torch Run and the athletes represented through Special Olympics Louisiana.

According to the Alexandria Police Department, the event brought together officers and community partners to help raise awareness and show support for Special Olympics athletes across the state.

Officials said the Torch Run serves as a symbol of encouragement and unity for athletes participating in Special Olympics programs and competitions.

The Alexandria Police Department noted it was proud to stand alongside fellow agencies and organizations in support of the athletes and the mission of Special Olympics Louisiana.


You’re invited to the spring finale of the free ‘Be Kind’ Garden District Concert Series at FUMCA

Christian recording artist Octavia will headline the final evening of the “Be Kind Concert Series” at First United Methodist Church of Alexandria on Thursday, May 28, at 6 PM in the church courtyard, located in the heart of Alexandria’s historic Garden District.

Known for her strong vocals, passionate worship style, and engaging personality, Octavia brings more than 20 years of musical experience to the stage. Her music reflects a deep-rooted faith and carries messages of hope, perseverance, and encouragement.

Guests can learn more about her music through Simply Octavia Music and her YouTube channel, @Simplyoctavia.

This outdoor concert series was created to bring people together through live music in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks to enjoy an evening outdoors with neighbors and friends. Admission is free, and a love offering will be received during the concert to provide direct support for the artist.

The concert series grows out of the church’s broader vision of creating healing, welcoming spaces where strangers become family and the community becomes a masterpiece of God’s grace.

Kelly Pepper, who helped shape the initiative, describes the vision in simple terms: “As a Garden District neighbor, I’m proud of the church’s history of using the arts to bring people together. ‘Be Kind’ reflects that spirit of creating space for connection, conversation, and kindness in the heart of our community.”

The series is designed to create space where all voices are welcomed, belonging is nurtured, and connection leads to healing. Senior Pastor Reverend Kennon Pickett adds, “At FUMCA, we are committed to inspire positive change by creating opportunities for neighbors to feel supported and uplifted, every individual is empowered to belong, and strangers come together as a caring community—building a world shaped by kindness and connection. That is simply what the ‘Be Kind’ series aims to do.”

Known locally for celebrating creativity through events such as the Tom Peyton Memorial Arts Festival, First United Methodist Church continues its commitment to fostering community through the arts with gatherings that encourage connection, hospitality, and kindness.

The “Be Kind Concert Series” is sponsored in part by the Nell Shehee Foundation’s Operation Kindness initiative, promoting kindness and service through acts of generosity and civic engagement.

“It’s ok to be kind.”


Brame part of Louisiana title team at U.S. Amateur Four-Ball

Lawrence Allan (left) and Alexandria native Grady Brame Jr. hold the United States Golf Association Amateur Four-Ball championship trophy they won Wednesday. (Photo courtesy USGA)

Grady Brame Jr., whose father Grady, uncle Frank, late grandfather Scott and late great uncle Frank Jr. of Alexandria often set the bar high for golf achievements, can now claim a prestigious unprecedented victory in the Brame family.

Grady Jr., 33, of Hammond, and former Southeastern Louisiana University teammate Lawrence Allan won the 11th U.S. Amateur Four-Ball Championship at Desert Mountain Club in Scottsdale, Arizona late Wednesday.

Brame Jr. and Allan completed a remarkable run, defeating Welshmen Jonathan Bale, 38, and 23-year-old Tomi Bowen, 4 and 3, in the 18-hole championship match. Allan, 31, was born in Scotland but now resides in Hammond where he’s the men’s golf coach at his alma mater.

To get to the championship match, Brame and Allan survived three extra-hole matches, including a 22-hole marathon in the semifinals on Wednesday morning. Allan delivered in the clutch in the 22-hole victory, making a 10-footer on the par-3 13th to put the side into the championship match. That match featured a combined 17 birdies and an eagle.

By winning the title, Grady Jr. and Allan became the first Louisiana golfers to register a USGA title since David Toms’ 2018 triumph in the U.S. Senior Open.

Allan becomes the fourth foreign-born golfer to get his name on the U.S. Amateur Four-Ball Trophy. The 90 holes required to win their five matches was only second behind last year’s titlists Will Hartman and Tyler Mawhinney (92).

The victory also earns the duo exemptions into the U.S. Amateur in August at Merion Golf Club and the U.S. Mid-Amateur this September at Sand Valley Resort in central Wisconsin.

Other bounty they collect for winning:

  • A gold medal for each player
  • Custody of the U.S. Amateur Four-Ball Trophy for the ensuing year
  • Exemptions into the next 10 U.S. Amateur Four-Ball Championships, provided the side remains intact
  • Names inscribed on the 2026 USGA champions’ plaque that resides inside the USGA Museum’s Hall of Champions, in Liberty Corner, N.J.

Grady Jr. said he has often heard his father boast of how many USGA championships he has played (23), so going into this tournament the father-son tally was 23-3.

Brame Jr. enjoyed an emotional hug with his dad shortly after holing the match-clinching 6-foot birdie putt at the 15th hole. The elder Brame had been competing in the Senior Trans-Miss at Mission Hills Country Club, in the Coachella Valley of California, shooting an opening-round 74 before deciding to withdraw on Tuesday afternoon and make the 4-hour, 15-minute drive to Desert Mountain, arriving in time to catch most of the semifinals.

“He said regardless of how he was playing, his mind was elsewhere,” Grady Jr. said of his father’s long drive to watch him play. “It didn’t matter if he shot 62 or 72 or 82, he was probably heading in this direction. And I think he’s a nutcase for doing that. Oh, it means the world to have him watching. It always makes it a little bit more special. I’m hoping it was definitely worth the drive.

“He does like to bring it up that his [USGA] tally is 23,” he said. “I’m currently at three. But I’m trying to go back and count the number of times that he’s won a USGA event, and I don’t think that he has, and so I would say that he can have his 23; I’ll have my one win.”

Grady Jr. and his father are the only father-son duo to have won the Louisiana Amateur; Grady Sr. in 2002 and Jr. in 2014-15 during his collegiate days. The younger Brame also caddied for his dad in the 2009 U.S. Amateur at Southern Hills Country Club.

Brame Jr., unlike his father or the other notable golfers in his family, turned professional in 2015, competing in 40 PGA Tour Canada events as well as Monday-qualifying for the 2017 Sanderson Farms event on the PGA Tour, and three Korn Ferry Tour events.

(EDITOR’S NOTE: Much of this information comes from David Shefter, a senior staff writer at the USGA. Email him at dshefter@usga.org.)


Remembering Norma Seidl Reed

Norma Seidl Reed, beloved wife, cherished aunt and deeply adored grandmother figure, passed peacefully into the presence of her Savior on Thursday, May 14, 2026.

A Memorial Service celebrating Norma’s life will be held on June 6 at 10:00 a.m. at Pineville Christian Church, officiated by Pastor Jason Huffman.

Norma was born to John and Maddie Seidl and was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Harvey Reed; and her sisters, Florence Seidl and Mary Chelette.

She is survived by her loving family, including her nephews Benny Chelette and wife Connie, daughter Morgan Bristo and husband Braden, along with their daughters Eva and Annalise; and Chris Chelette and wife Terri; son Cole Chelette and wife Brittney, along with their children Amelia, Bentley, and Aubrey; and daughter Paige Lavergne and husband Tyler along with family members and dear friends whose lives were forever touched by her kindness and love.

Though Norma had no biological children of her own, she was the kind of woman whose love naturally created family wherever she went. She was the very best aunt, and grandmother figure anyone could ever ask for-offering unwavering love, wisdom, encouragement, and warmth to all who were blessed to know her. Her extended family was never simply “extended” to her; they were wholeheartedly loved as her own.

Norma had a joyful spirit and found beauty in life’s simple pleasures. She loved sitting outside soaking up the sunshine and admiring beautiful flowers. She especially loved traveling the world with her beloved Harvey, creating memories together that she treasured deeply.

A proud lover of South Louisiana cooking, Norma never turned down good food shared with family. She especially loved boudin balls, crawfish étouffée, crawfish stuffed chickens, and a good helping of turnip greens. Meals around Norma were never just about food-they were about fellowship, laughter, and time spent with the people she loved most.

Norma faithfully loved Jesus, and those who knew her could see her faith not only in what she said, but in the way she lived her life. She was a devoted member of Pineville Christian Church and treasured her Wednesday Bible Study Group. Her kindness, generosity, cheerful spirit, and servant’s heart reflected Christ’s love to everyone she encountered.

In her later years, Norma lovingly helped care for both of her sisters, faithfully walking beside them through difficult seasons with compassion and devotion. She remained joyful, caring, and always looked forward to spending time with her family.

Norma also worked as a realtor in the New Orleans area, where she built lasting friendships and touched many lives through her warmth, kindness, and genuine care for others.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to all her wonderful friends for their loving care and compassion looking after her during her last months. The family would also like to thank Christus Hospice, especially Jordan, Mandy, and Madyson, as well as the caregivers at Lexington House Care Center, for the love, compassion, and care shown to Norma during her final days.

Though deeply missed, Norma leaves behind a legacy of unwavering faith, unconditional love, joyful living, and a reminder to cherish family, laugh often, enjoy good food, and never miss the beauty of a sunrise, sunset, or time spent with those you love.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23

In lieu of flowers please make donations to: Pineville Christian Church, 2000 Military Highway, Pineville, La 71360.


Remembering Bruce Terry Dubois

Funeral services celebrating the life of Bruce Terry Dubois will be held at 1:00PM on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at Bay Springs Baptist Church, Chopin, LA, with the Rev. Tommy Sanson officiating. Interment will follow in Bay Springs Cemetery, Chopin, under the direction of Fall Creek Funeral Home,

Visitation will begin on Friday, from 4PM in the church until time of service on Saturday.

Bruce Terry Dubois, aged 78 of Chopin, LA, passed away peacefully

on May 19, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family.

Bruce was born on August 14, 1947, to Ralph and Delsie Dubois. He was proud to serve his country as a member of the United States Navy, where he developed a deep sense of discipline and honor that stayed with him throughout his life.

An avid outdoorsman, Bruce found peace in nature, whether fishing, hunting or just enjoying the outdoors. He was known for his strong work ethic, quick wit, and love of family.

He is survived by his wife, Esther Dubois, his children, Bruce Jason (Denise), Justin (Cheryl), and Sonja Dubois; his grandchildren, Bryce (Kari), Matthew, Katelyn, and Lucas Dubois; his great grandchildren, Rylen, Scarlett, and Theodore; his siblings, Bertha Crosby (Paul), Betty Knight (Adrian), Brent (Debbie), Calvin (Lois), and Michael (Denise) Dubois and a host of nieces/nephews that loved him dearly.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Delsie Dubois, and his siblings, Felder, Melton, Melvin, Ralph Wayne, and Richard, and his daughter-in-law Amanda Dubois.

Bruce will be remembered as a man who loved without judgement, helped anyone in need, led by example, and was dedicated to his family.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be Guy Dubois, Jay Dubois, Rodice Dubois, Eric Dubois, Tim Belgard, and Joshua Guillot.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Fall Creek Funeral Home, Randy Chenevert, Director.


Word of the Day: Cordial

Phonetic: /KOR-jul/

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition

  • Cordial describes someone or something that is politely pleasant and friendly.

    All the guests were assembled and given a cordial greeting by the host.

Notice of Death – May 21, 2026

Beverly Kay Giannone
November 19, 1949 – May 12, 2026
Service: Tuesday, May 26, 2026, 2pm at Kramer & Son Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Nina Myrtis Huffman
October 10, 1933 – May 6, 2026
Service: Friday, May 29, 2026, 10am at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball. 

Hazel Thomas Holloway
Service: Friday, May 22, 2026 at 11 am at Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery in Colfax

The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or RPJNewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. 


Veto vexation

By JIM BUTLER

To receive and consider the mayor’s veto message. Alexandria City Council posted agenda, Dec. 16.

Receive and consider mayor’s veto message. Jules Green motion to override, second Malcolm Larvadain. Motion fails. Minutes, Dec. 16.

To receive and consider the mayor’s veto message. Posted Agenda, May 5.

After being told by the City Clerk that the message cannot be discussed without adding to posted agenda, motion to add vetoed ordinance fails. Minutes, May 5. 

Public bodies must post an agenda no later than 24 hours before a meeting. Adding an item at a meeting requires unanimous vote. 

At Tuesday’s Legal Affairs Committee meeting Councilman at-large Jules Green attempted to get an understanding of the difference in the two boldface items above. 

He asked attorney Trey Gist what changed between December and May in the process for taking up a veto. He did not ask the clerk about any differences. 

If Gist explained to Green’s satisfaction, video of the meeting doesn’t reflect it. 

The December veto was of a reapportionment vote; this month’s was the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with GAEDA. 

Mayor Jacques Roy declined to attend the committee session, according to Larvadain, because he views the override process as a council function, not an administration one. 

Larvadain asked if a veto can be taken up beyond the limit specified in the City Charter and City Code. Gist said no.


Medical emergency resulting in inmate death being investigated

Deputies at the Rapides Detention Center – 1 responded to a medical emergency on May 19 around 7:20 am where they found an inmate unresponsive and not breathing inside his cell. The inmate was identified as Demetric Smith, 32 of Alexandria.

Deputies and Corrections Medical personnel responded immediately and started life saving measures which included the administration of Narcan for a possible opioid overdose, CPR  and the use of an AED (Automated External Defibrillator). 

Deputies and medical personnel continued rendering life saving measures until Pafford EMS arrived on scene and took over the response.  Unfortunately, despite extensive and exhaustive life-saving efforts by deputies and medical first responders, Smith could not be revived and was pronounced deceased at approximately 8:12 AM. 

Corrections Security Investigators, Internal Affairs Investigators and Crime Scene Detectives responded to conduct their investigation which included gathering of evidence and conducting interviews of other inmates.   

Corrections Security Investigators say autopsy and toxicology results are pending and the investigation is still ongoing.


Lane closure scheduled for LA 1 Bridge in Rapides Parish

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development has announced a temporary lane closure for a bridge on LA 1 in Rapides Parish later this month.

According to DOTD, Bridge #084000000080622 on LA 1 over Bayou Jean De Jean will be reduced to one lane on Friday, May 29, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting, to allow for a routine bridge inspection.

The bridge is located approximately 0.25 miles north of LA 121 in Rapides Parish.

Officials said drivers should expect possible delays in the area and are encouraged to use caution while traveling through the work zone during the inspection period.


DOTD announces temporary lane closure for LA 115 bridge inspection near Deville

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development has announced a temporary lane closure for a bridge inspection on LA 115 in Rapides Parish.

According to DOTD, Bridge #084000330400001 on LA 115 over Big Creek will be reduced to one lane on Thursday, May 28, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting, to allow crews to conduct a routine bridge inspection.

The bridge is located approximately 5.66 miles north of LA 107 near Deville.

Officials said no detour will be necessary because one lane of traffic will remain open throughout the inspection period. Drivers are advised to use caution and expect possible delays while traveling through the area.


78-year-old Pineville man accused of rape

Arrests are accusations, not convictions

May 20

Mateo Deyoung Chaney, 28, Pineville – unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, parole violations, $2,000 bail;

Jenea Nichole Croom, 40, Pineville – nine counts possession of CDS, paraphernalia, obtaining CDS by fraud, use of CDS in presence of minors, $21,500 bail;

Daquavious D. Hall, 32, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, resisting an officer, $2,000 bail;

James Benard Milner, 32, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, no driver’s license, possession of paraphernalia, flight from an officer, speeding, $13,200 bail;

Monty Charles Monteilh, 59, Sulphur – nonconsensual disclosure of a private image, misdemeanor sexual battery, no bail data.

May 19

Caljoneke Armstead, 26, Lecompte – unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, contempt of court, failure to appear, $2,000 bail;

Markesha Rashae Brown, 27, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery with child present, probation violation, $1,000 bail;

Tianto Clark Sr., 41, Alexandria –  three counts possession of CDS, paraphernalia, producing manufacturing distributing CDS, parole violations, $19,000 bail;

Therman Earl Davion Jr., 51, Boyce – five counts contempt of court, $125,000 bail;

Jake Desoto, 39, Marksville – OWI fourth offense, careless operation of a vehicle, safety belt violation, intentional littering, Louisiana fugitive, $200,700 bail;

Byron Keith Fay, 53, Alexandria – two counts producing manufacturing distributing CDS, cruelty to juveniles, obstruction of justice, flight from an officer, paraphernalia, $1.01 million bail;

Devontay Antonios Fennix, 30, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, possession of CDS in school zone, resisting an officer, safety belt violation, smoking in vehicle, probation violation, two counts contempt of court, $7,200 bail;

James Bradley Fisher, 43, Alexandria – theft, flight from an officer, reckless operation of a vehicle, driving under suspension/revocation, improper display vehicle license plate, three counts contempt of court, $35,600 bail;

Corey Donell Gaines, 36, Alexandria – OWI first offense, headlamps required, open container, no driver’s license, $1,300 bail;

Jesse Paul Goleman, 58, Pineville – possession of CDS, no signals, running a stop sign, $10,200 bail;

Bobby Neal Jones Jr., 42, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery strangulation, home invasion, probation violation, $50,000 bail;

Brandon Paul Lachney, 37, Ball – driving under suspension, injuring public records, resisting an officer, driver’s license not in possession, $1,700 bail;

Kendall Jermaine Leopaul, 22, Alexandria – criminal damage, contempt of court, $2,250 bail;

Eden Danielle Rossi, 37, St. Amant – two counts contempt of court, $100,000 bail;

Zachary Jason Seals Sr., 40, Dry Prong – simple burglary, criminal conspiracy, Louisiana fugitive, possession of CDS, obstruction of justice, intentional littering, criminal damage to property, unauthorized entry of inhabited dwelling, $32,000 bail;

Fredrick Eugene Warren, 30, Lecompte – contempt of court, $75,000 bail;

Jordan Rashaad Washington, 36, Alexandria – theft, possession of CDS, resisting an officer, two counts contempt of court, $6,000 bail;

Steven Dewayne West, 42, Alexandria – aggravated second degree battery, $50,000 bail;

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

James Earl Williams, 40, Alexandria – simple burglary, two counts contempt of court, $9,000 bail.

May 18

John Michael Burns, 37, Alexandria – arson (communicating false information), fake device explosives, resisting police officer with force or violence, contempt of court, $100,500 bail;

Larry Davis, 28, Marksville – aggravated battery, aggravated assault domestic abuse, probation and parole violations, $50,000 bail;

Eddie C. Jefferson Jr., 78, Pineville – second degree rape, two counts resisting an officer, contempt of court, $103,500 bail;

Darius Damon Johnson, 48, Alexandria – OWI fourth offense, improper parking, open container, driving under suspension, parole violations, $100,200 bail;

Michelle Mohler, 56, Pineville – contempt of court, resisting an officer, $25,500 bail;

Zachary Ethan Shuler, 20, Pineville – four counts attempted first degree murder, criminal conspiracy, $2.05 million bail;

Leo Brian Steele, 43, Alexandria – possession of heroin, improper bicycle operation, $1,100 bail;

Larry Wayne Tarter, 74, Alexandria – unauthorized entry into inhabited dwelling, criminal trespass, $1,500 bail;

Deshawn Gage Washington, 23, Alexandria – simple burglary, seven counts contempt of court, $19,000 bail;

William Whiddon Jr., 53, Alexandria – violation of protective orders, intimidation (nonconsensual disclosure of private image), $50,000 bail.

May 17

Andrew Marshall Daniels, 38, Pineville – OWI first offense, running a stop sign, $1,100 bail;

Kaitlyn Minnie Beatrice Gibson, 35, Ball – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, driving under suspension, no insurance, failure to appear, $2,800 bail;

Kenneth Mead Moran III, 38, Ball – domestic abuse battery strangulation, parole violations, $25,000 bail;

Johnta Patterson, 32, Alexandria – aggravated assault domestic abuse, $25,000 bail;

Buck Nathaniel Stafford, 27, Alexandria – three counts contempt of court, $21,000 bail.


Alexandria Police Chief receives Hometown Hero Award from U.S. Attorney’s Office

Alexandria Police Department Chief Chad Gremillion was honored with the Hometown Hero Award by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana during a ceremony recognizing leadership and public service.

The award was presented by United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller and recognizes individuals who demonstrate the ideals of liberty, service, and civic responsibility in honor of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.

Officials said the recognition highlights Chief Gremillion’s commitment to law enforcement and community service in Alexandria.

During the presentation, Gremillion emphasized that the award reflected the collective efforts of the department and its officers.

“This award is not about me, it belongs to the men and women that I work beside every day,” Gremillion said. “Law enforcement is never a one-person effort; it takes partnerships, sacrifice and a shared commitment to protecting our communities.”

The Alexandria Police Department noted that the recognition celebrates leadership rooted in dedication, teamwork, and public service.


Remembering Donovan “Don” Roy Hanes

Donovan “Don” Roy Hanes, age 74, entered into eternal rest on Friday, May 15, 2026, at his home surrounded by love.

Visitation for Mr. Don will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Gallagher Funeral Home from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Funeral services will begin at 12:00 p.m. with Bro. Charles Hutzler officiating. Interment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Gallagher Funeral Home.

Don was preceded in death by his father, William Roger Hanes; his mother, Dorothy West; stepfather, Willis West; and his stepsister, Debbie Johnson.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 51 years, Kathleen “Kathi” Hanes; his son, Brandon Hanes (Amanda); his daughter, Robin Roberts (Dusty); his brother Kim Hanes (Janice); his beloved grandchildren, Kailyn Bynog, Chloe Bynog, Crislyn Bynog, Ayden Roberts, Adelynne Roberts, Levi Prince, and Emily Hanes; his stepmother Virginia Hanes; stepbrothers, Jay Hatcher (Misti) and Kerry West; stepsisters, Sami Hatcher, Traci Liotta, and Becky Manning; sister-in-law, Joan Russell; and lifelong best friend and brother, Mel Lacour.

Don was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, and faithful friend. He was known for his steadfast consistency, exemplified by his 31 years of dedicated service with International Paper. An avid bass fisherman, he enjoyed many years participating in fishing clubs and making memories on the water.

Above all, Don was a man of deep faith who loved the Lord and faithfully shared the Gospel with others. Even as he faced numerous cancer diagnoses and other health challenges in recent years, he never allowed his own struggles to keep him from ministering to those around him. He became a source of strength and comfort for many, often driving others to treatments and offering them hope during their darkest moments. His compassion, encouragement, and unwavering faith made a lasting impact on countless lives.

Don will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, and his legacy of faith, kindness, and service will continue to inspire generations to come.

Pallbearers honored to serve are Kim Hanes, Jay Hatcher, Mel Lacour, Phillip Tarver, Dusty Roberts, and Wayne Deen.


Remembering James Curtis “Jim” Strange

James Curtis “Jim” Strange, a proud member of the Tunica Biloxi Tribe, passed away on May 18, 2026, at the age of 63. He was born on November 3, 1962, in Alexandria, Louisiana.

Funeral services for James Curtis Strange will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home in Alexandria, with Pastor Rodney Briggs officiating. Burial will follow at Paul Cemetery in Forest Hill.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home in Alexandria from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., where friends and family are invited to gather and honor his memory, share stories, and celebrate the life of a remarkable man.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be James Strange, Laney Strange, Marty Strange, Chris Roy, J.D. Guillory, and Sean Lamkin.

Jim was a proud husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He cherished his family and friends. A passionate racing enthusiast, he found joy in the dirt races in Forest Hill, which became one of his favorite pastimes.

For over 20 years, James worked as a trucker, a profession he approached with dedication and commitment. He spent 20 years working at the Tunica-Biloxi Gaming Commission. His work ethic was a testament to his character, and he took pride in every journey he undertook.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Julie Bordelon Strange; children, James Strange (Amanda) and Sheena Moreau (Wesley); grandchildren, Jude Strange, Jameson Strange, Jase Moreau, Ashtyn Moreau, Skylar Moreau, Jacob Strange, Rylee Roy, Piper Ewing, Avery Ewing and Vayda Ewing; brothers, Laney Strange (Melinda), Marty Strange; sister, Rhonda Lamkin along with a community of family and friends who will forever remember him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jimmy Strange and Betty Strange; his son, Jacob William Strange; his brother, Ronnie Strange; and the mother of his children, Laura Strange.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that y’all come visit and tell stories.


Notice of Death – May 20, 2026

Beverly Kay Giannone
November 19, 1949 – May 12, 2026
Service: Tuesday, May 26, 2026, 2pm at Kramer & Son Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Nina Myrtis Huffman
October 10, 1933 – May 6, 2026
Service: Friday, May 29, 2026, 10am at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball. 

Hazel Thomas Holloway
Service: Friday, May 22, 2026 at 11 am at Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery in Colfax

The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or RPJNewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication.