Remembering Henry Lee (‘Brother’) Webb

Henry Lee (‘Brother’) Webb was born July 12, 1940, to Emmitt Webb and Mary Dent Webb in the small community of Lettsworth, Louisiana, in Pointe Coupee Parish. He was fondly known as Bro. Webb to all who knew him.

On January 27, 1962, he married Eloise Davis, and to this union one child, Shirley Webb Armstrong was born. Bro. Webb was baptized in 1975 by Rev. Ernest Lea, Sr. at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church. He was an active member at St. John Baptist Church in Lettsworth, LA, a member of the Deacon Board, a Sunday School teacher for many years, and a groundskeeper of the church. Bro. Webb attended Torres Community School and was extremely proud of the education he received.

He worked in farming and construction until his employment with the Atchafalaya Levee Board. His employment with the Levee Board spanned 25½ years until his retirement in 2002. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, gardening, and yard work. He loved cookouts and family gatherings. He was the family historian who could remember everyone and their families in detail. He truly loved his church family and had a pastor in every town.

Mourning his departure while cherishing his memory are his brothers, Thomas Webb of New Orleans, LA; Joseph Webb of New Orleans, LA; and Mack Webb (Denise) of Amite, LA; one sister, Annie Tolliver of New Orleans, LA; one son-in-law, Earl Armstrong of Simmesport, LA; sisters-in-law Juanita Davis of Batchelor, LA; Dorothy Lea of Dallas, TX; Barbara Holt of Lettsworth, LA; and Farlene Webb of Laplace, LA; a special friend, Audrey Franklin and her children; his godchildren: Ula Christal, Nicole Tolliver, Arleen D. Scott, Mary Lea Holmes, and Alonzo Webb; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends. Bro.

Webb was preceded in death by his parents, Emmitt and Mary Webb; his wife, Eloise Webb; his daughter, Shirley Webb Armstrong; brothers Reuben Webb, Emmitt Webb, Jr, and Mel Webb; and sister, Delia Courtney. Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers.


Word of the Day: Tawdry

Phonetic: /taw·​dry/

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition

cheap and gaudy in appearance or quality

tawdry clothing/jewels
tawdry furniture

“Well, I found myself seated in a horrid little private box … I looked out from behind the curtain and surveyed the house. It was a tawdry affair, all Cupids and cornucopias, like a third-rate wedding-cake.”
—Oscar Wilde


Any trip there carries with it more than its share of drabness, tawdry hotels and second-rate service, all of which tax the forbearance of the most patient traveler.
—John F. Burns


morally sordid, base, or distasteful

a tawdry scandal
a tawdry love affair
a tawdry attempt to smear his opponent

Setting aside the tawdry manner in which his marriage had (publicly) unraveled, the mayor’s combative style had begun to grate on many New Yorkers.
—Jonathan Mahler


Notice of Death – June 18, 2026

Linda Laree Gunter
December 18, 1975 – June 17, 2026
Service: Monday, June 22, 2026, 2pm at Glenmora United Pentecostal Church, Glenmora.

Othe Pearline Scott
December 1, 1950 – June 16, 2026
Service: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 2pm at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Hubert Alvin Baxter
March 24, 1940 – June 15, 2026
Service: Friday, June 19, 2026, 12pm at Palestine Methodist Church, Ball.

Melodie Fitzwater Jeansonne
March 14, 1968 – June 14, 2026
Service: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 10am at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Stanley David Bohrer
December 18, 1940 – June 13, 2026
Service: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 11am at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, Alexandria.

Katherine Louise Ellis
April 22, 1993 – June 13, 2026
Service: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 1pm at Magnolia Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Roxie Quinney
December 18, 1945 – June 12, 2026
Service: Tuesday, June 23, 2026, 11am at Mount Triumph Missionary Baptist Church, Boyce.

Marlow Deshea Trottie
January 1, 1990 – June 8, 2026
Service: Friday, June 19, 2026, 11am at Winnfield Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Joseph Hudson, III
December 2, 1971 – June 6, 2026
Service: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 2pm at Second Union Missionary Baptist Church, Alexandria.

Virginia “Jenny” McCartney
January 31, 1951 – May 13, 2026
Service: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 10am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Alexandria. 

The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access.


Christy Dugas named principal of J.I. Barron Elementary School

The Rapides Parish School Board has announced the appointment of Christy Dugas as the new principal of J.I. Barron Elementary School.

Dugas brings 31 years of experience in the Rapides Parish school system to her new position. She has served as principal of Paradise Elementary School since 2017 and previously worked as the school’s assistant principal.

In announcing her new role, Dugas said she is excited to join the J.I. Barron community and looks forward to building relationships with students, staff and families while fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and encouraged to reach their full potential.

School officials cited Dugas’ extensive experience, dedication to education and commitment to student success as qualities that will serve the school well as she begins her tenure as principal.

The appointment marks a new chapter for J.I. Barron Elementary as the school prepares for the upcoming academic year under Dugas’ leadership.


Rapides Parish athlete to represent Louisiana at 2026 Special Olympics USA Games

Rapides Parish athlete Alex Webb is preparing to represent Louisiana on the national stage as part of Team Louisiana at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota.

Special Olympics Louisiana announced that Webb will be among the athletes traveling to Minnesota, with Team Louisiana departing June 19 ahead of the competition, which runs June 20-26.

The Special Olympics USA Games bring together thousands of athletes from across the country to compete in a variety of sports while promoting inclusion, determination and excellence through athletic competition.

According to Special Olympics Louisiana, Team Louisiana athletes have spent months training and preparing for the event and are ready to showcase their skills while representing their communities and the state.

Webb will join fellow Louisiana athletes in competing against some of the nation’s top Special Olympics competitors during the weeklong event. The games are expected to draw athletes, coaches, volunteers and spectators from across the United States.


 Legal costs mount in Diocese bankruptcy

 Legal costs mount in Diocese bankruptcy

By JIM BUTLER

Legal costs in the Diocese of Alexandria bankruptcy case have passed $400,000 since the October 31 filing.

The Diocese on filing for Chapter 11 protection estimated its legal cost could run as high as $2 million.

Latest request for payment is by Werner, Weiss & Madison, counsel for the Committee of Unsecured Creditors.

The requested payment would bring to about $149,000 the sum paid the firm for compensation and expenses since its appointment December 1.

Should there be objection to the payment request a hearing will be held July 14 in Shreveport.

According to the March 31 operations statement filed by the Diocese, its counsel, the Gold Law Firm of Alexandria, had been paid about $$264,000 through that date.

Parties in the case held an initial mediation session earlier this month.


Louisiana DOTD announces alternating lane closures for signal upgrade work in Alexandria

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has announced a series of alternating lane closures in Alexandria beginning Monday, June 22 at 9 a.m., weather permitting, as part of the District 08 Flashing Yellow Arrow Upgrade Project.

The work will impact multiple corridors, including I-49, US 165 Business, LA 1, and LA 28 in Rapides Parish. Crews will conduct alternating lane closures from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at several intersections, with one lane in each direction remaining open at all times.

Affected intersections include Bolton Avenue at Odom Street, Rapides Avenue, Elliot Street, and Jackson Street; Monroe Street at Texas Avenue; LA 28 at Barron Chapel Road; Broadway Avenue at Eddie Williams Avenue; and 3rd Street at Willow Glen River Road.

According to DOTD, the closures are required to install new mast arms on signal pole foundations and complete related construction work.

The project is scheduled for completion at all listed intersections by June 26, 2026, though timelines may shift due to weather and other construction factors.

The contract for the project was awarded to Jack B. Harper Electrical, LLC in the amount of $9,040,462.73.


City of Alexandria to host ‘Rock the Red’ celebration for America’s 250th anniversary on July 4

The City of Alexandria, Louisiana – Government will host a special Independence Day celebration titled “Rock the Red” on Saturday, July 4, in honor of America’s 250th anniversary.

The event will take place at the Riverfront Amphitheater and Mini Park along the banks of the Red River, with festivities scheduled from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by a fireworks display beginning at 9 p.m.

City officials say the celebration will feature live entertainment, patriotic-themed programming, and family-friendly activities designed to highlight community spirit and national pride.

The event is free and open to the public, and residents are encouraged to bring family and friends to participate in the evening festivities. Additional details are expected to be released as the event approaches.

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LSU’s John Brady was making connections for his future before he even knew he had one

(Portrait by CHRIS BROWN, Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame)

LSU’s John Brady was making connections for his future before he even knew he had one

By GLENN GUILBEAU, Written for the LSWA

Former LSU men’s basketball coach John Brady wanted to be a coach back when he was at McComb High in the early 1970s.

But little did he know that the contacts he would make by chance would lead to the promised land of the 2006 Final Four, induction into the LSU Athletics Hall of Fame last fall, the Louisiana Association of Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame last May and now, the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in Natchitoches.

Brady is part of a 12-member Class of 2026 going into the LSHOF to culminate three days of festivities Thursday, June 25-Saturday, June 27, with seven events (six in Natchitoches, bowling in Alexandria). For participation information, visit LaSportsHall.com or call 318-238-4255.

For example, how would he have known that the Hattiesburg High guard who defended him in high school games and in junior high – Tim Floyd – would become a college head coach and one day hire him?

Or how he happened to catch on with Mississippi State basketball coach Kermit Davis as a graduate assistant and become friends with Kermit Davis Jr., who would later become his top assistant coach at LSU and a lifelong friend.

Or that one of his best friends in his early 20s would happen to be the son of Joe “String Music” Dean of SEC basketball television fame, a Converse shoes marketing executive who would one day become LSU’s athletic director — and would hire Brady as the Tigers’ basketball coach.

“I’m telling you, the dominoes were falling, and I didn’t even know what was going on,” Brady said. “I had no idea. It’s crazy now.”

There were also coaching mentors he would learn from, such as his McComb High coach, Bobby Nelson, and his college coach at Belhaven in Jackson – Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame coach Charlie Rugg.

And the head coaches he would learn more from as an assistant – like Kermit Davis as a grad assistant at Mississippi State (1976-77) and as an assistant under Bob Boyd at Mississippi State (1982-86), Richard Williams at Mississippi State (1986-90) and Floyd at UNO (1990-91).

From each, he learned similar old school fundamentals.

“Bobby Nelson is a great guy and had a big influence on me,” Brady said. “Charlie Rugg was at Belhaven and had a huge influence on me. I always thought about coaching when I was playing, because it was the only thing I really felt comfortable as far as what I was going to do.”

But he had to get the jobs first.

So, after graduating from Belhaven with a business degree in 1976, Brady enrolled at Mississippi State for a master’s degree in education to coach. He sent a resume and letter to coach Kermit Davis, who hired him. There he met Joe Dean Jr., who had just finished playing at State and was a graduate assistant.

“Joe Dean Jr. and I became best friends,” Brady said. “I used to go home with Joe on weekends to Baton Rouge and hang out at his house with his dad. It’s amazing how that all worked.”

Soon, Joe Dean Sr. was the star of Brady’s resume.

“It changed my life,” Brady said. “Joe Dean was the Converse shoe man. He knew everybody. My connection with Kermit and his dad changed my life, too. That all played a huge part in me coming to LSU.”

But first, Dean helped Brady land the coaching job at Crowley High in 1977. Brady won at Crowley and was named the Louisiana Sports Writers’ Association Class AAA coach of the year in 1981.

“He embraced a collegiate blueprint as though we were in college,” said James Moore, who played on Crowley’s 1980-81 team. “He put Crowley on the map. He promoted his teams all over Crowley at grocery stores, churches, businesses.”

Brady also attended many LSU basketball games as coach Dale Brown took the Tigers to an SEC title in 1979, the Elite Eight in 1980 and the Final Four in 1981.

Brown recruited Crowley, and so did that Hattiesburg guy, Tim Floyd, a Don Haskins assistant at Texas-El Paso who recruited Crowley forwards Jerome Batiste and Greg Lazard.

“I went over there for players and ended up finding one of the greatest hires I ever made,” Floyd said. “I suggested to coach Haskins we hire him.”

But Brady instead returned to Mississippi State to coach under Boyd, who was USC’s coach from 1967-79 and a nemesis of UCLA legend John Wooden. The two players came with Brady to State. Neither stayed, but Brady did and learned with fellow assistants Richard Williams and Larry Eustachy, who would become head coaches.

“Bob Boyd taught me how to communicate the game to players,” Brady said. “Bob was the best communicator I’ve ever been around in terms of details in his teaching. And he held players accountable.”

When Boyd retired in 1986, Williams replaced him and kept Brady. Brady later moved to UNO to coach under Floyd in 1990-91.

“Tim reiterated what I always believed in — defending without fouling, rebounding, taking care of the ball, getting a quality shot,” Brady said.

After one season with Floyd, Brady got the head coaching job at Samford in Birmingham, Alabama, over bigger names like Mark Gottfried and Matt Doherty. Why? Dean.

“Joe Dean helped me get every job I ever had,” Brady said.

Brady quickly turned around Samford, which was coming off six straight single-digit-win seasons. Brady went 17-10 in his first season and won back-to-back Trans America West titles in 1996 and ‘97.

“That place was asleep,” then-Birmingham News columnist Kevin Scarbinsky said. “I remember John counted the number of people at his first game. It was in the low hundreds. He vowed that he was going to fill the building, and eventually he did.”

Brady never took Samford to the NCAA Tournament, but he did become Cinderella on Dec. 2, 1996. Boyd was an assistant on LSU’s staff at the time and had warned Brown.

“You better be ready,” Boyd said. “That SOB could come in here and cut us up.”

And Samford won, 53-50.

Brown had announced before the season that the 1996-97 season – his 25th – would be his last. And Brady struck while the victory was still hot. He called Dean the next day.

“I want to be the next basketball coach at LSU,” he said.

“John, I love you like a son,” Dean said. “But I can’t hire you at LSU from Samford.”

Brady said to keep him in mind anyway.

At this time, the NCAA was investigating LSU over its recruitment of star Baton Rouge forward Lester Earl. And one-by-one, the top candidates removed themselves. It came down to Ole Miss coach Rob Evans or Brady.

“If Rob doesn’t take it, I’m sending the plane to pick you up,” Dean told Brady.

“I was pumped. I didn’t care if they were going on 10-year probation,” Brady said. “And I got the call.”

But Brady took over a program coming off four straight losing seasons, too.

“I talked to him the night before he went down there,” Scarbinsky said. “And he told me he could get LSU to the Final Four. He had such confidence.”

But not many players. He inherited seven, but three quit during his first team meeting.

“Any ideas?” Brady asked assistant coach and old friend Kermit Davis Jr.

“Yeah,” Davis said. “Let’s not have any more team meetings.”

Brady had losing seasons in 1997-98 and 1998-99. Then the NCAA sanctions hit and LSU lost six scholarships through 2002. Still Brady and assistants Butch Pierre and Davis signed one of the top players in the country in Shreveport forward Stromile Swift. As a sophomore in 1999-2000, he led LSU to the Sweet 16 with a 28-6 finish and first SEC title since 1991 at 12-4.

“I appreciate you coach,” Swift told Brady at a 25-year reunion of that team in Baton Rouge as both choked up. “I needed a coach like you. He was a tough coach, and he made us better.” 

Once the sanctions stopped, LSU returned to NCAA Tournaments in 2003 and ’05 before a magical 2005-06 when the Tigers won another SEC title at 14-2 and reached the school’s first Final Four since 1986 and finished 27-9.

“I didn’t like John Brady at first,” Brown said just recently. “But I grew to admire and respect him as a coach and a man. He did a wonderful job with his Final Four team and really should’ve got to coach longer. I’m proud of him.”

Floyd felt the same way.

“I always respected his journey. He didn’t take any shortcuts,” he said. “His greatest strength was holding great players to a standard and making them accountable.”

He got that from Boyd.

“He was not afraid to be direct with his players. He coached with his gut. And accountability was everything to him,” Floyd said.

The magic quickly ended, though, as Brady fell to 17-15 and 5-11 in the SEC in 2006-07. He was fired midway through 2007-08 at 8-13 and 1-6 in the SEC. Never mind that his best player – forward Tasmin Mitchell – was lost for virtually all of the season with a leg injury. Center Chris Johnson also missed seven games with a broken hand.

“And 18 months before he was at the Final Four? You’ve got to be kidding me,” Floyd said, still angry 18 years later. “His best player was out. I didn’t agree with the firing at all.”

Brady quickly got another job at Arkansas State for the next season and won two Sun Belt Conference West titles before retiring in 2016.

He received a third SEC championship ring from LSU a year after he left in 2009. Trent Johnson, the coach who replaced him at LSU, thought it only fair as Johnson won the SEC

in his first season with Mitchell, Johnson and other top players left by Brady, such as guard Marcus Thornton and Temple, playing major roles.

“Tasmin and Garrett might have asked him to do that, but he did it,” Brady said. “And I really appreciated it.”

Brady would get one more SEC title ring when coach Will Wade won the league in 2019 with Brady as the LSU Radio Network game analyst, where he remains as Wade returns.

“So, I got four and only won two,” he laughed. “I didn’t leave LSU all mad. And coming back to do radio helped my legacy by people seeing me in a different light. It’s helped me go to this nice place with LSU people now, which I’m blown away by. I’m just so humbled by it and these Halls of Fame. I’m a lucky guy.”  


Burns appears primed to contend at U.S. Open

Former LSU All-American Sam Burns is among the golfers expected to contend beginning early this morning at the U.S. Open.

Burns appears primed to contend at U.S. Open

By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports

He was right there last year, leading on the back nine in the final round of the U.S. Open.

After a rotten ruling from a U.S.G.A. rules official forcing him to play from apparent standing water on the 15th fairway, fortune turned for Sam Burns.

He struggled home on a soggy Oakmont Country Club course, shooting 3-over on the last four holes, in rainy conditions, and wound up tied for 7th.

The top 10 was no fluke. In 2024, the former LSU All-American finished tied for ninth at the national championship.

Today he tees off in the 2026 edition, at Shinnecock Hills on Long Island, N.Y., hoping to be in the mix again.

Burns, 29, is in the very early wave of starters, going off the 10th tee at 6:41 a.m. with Englishman Tyrrell Hatton and Si Woo Kim of Korea.

The native Shreveporter is among a group of players who many golf analysts expect to contend – not only based on his recent play at the Open, but his recent play this season.

He has two top 10 finishes in the past couple months, in strong fields: seventh at The Masters, his best showing at Augusta, and fourth two weeks ago at The Memorial, when he was tied for the lead on the 17th tee.

Burns, who now lives in Choudrant and plays out of Squire Creek Country Club there, has five top 20 finishes in his last 10 starts. He is 29th in the Official World Golf Rankings with $3.5 million in 2026 earnings.

Golf Digest writer Keith Stewart ranked the entire 156-man field and put Burns at No. 7. The only players ahead of him: Tommy Fleetwood, Cameron Young, Jon Rahm, Rory McIlroy, Xander Schauffele, and Scottie Scheffler – who turns 30 Sunday and can complete the career Grand Slam if he wins.

If you know ball, then you’re aware of his recent success at the U.S. Open. One of two guys in the field with back-to-back top-10s in our national championship, Burns had a slow weekend in Canada, but I wouldn’t take that as an alarm. Instead, I would be looking at the T-7 at Augusta, a T-13 at TPC Sawgrass and a solid showing  (T-26) at the PGA,” wrote Stewart.

Neil Parker of Covers cites Burns’ recent play and particularly improvement in his play on approaches and around the green. Burns leads the U.S. Open field in true strokes gained putting, and Parker notes “elite work on the greens will be (a) Shinnecock separator.”

Today’s TV coverage is on USA Network beginning at 6:30 a.m.

Friday, coverage shifts to Peacock throughout the day beginning at 6:30, with NBCSN streaming from 6:30-1:30 and NBC picking up coverage at 1:30.

USA Network will have morning coverage on the weekend rounds with NBC and Peacock taking over at noon each day.

Burns made his U.S. Open professional debut at Shinnecock Hills in 2018, finishing in a 41st place tie.

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com


Jury research project – participants wanted!

Alexandria-area residents have a unique opportunity to peek behind the legal curtain next month while earning some extra cash.

Proven Focus, a Denver-based trial consulting company, is seeking local participants for a paid jury research project regarding an upcoming legal matter.

The three-hour sessions will take place on Friday, July 10, and Saturday, July 11. Two time slots are available each day: 9 a.m. to noon and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Participation Details

To qualify for the research focus group, individuals must meet the following criteria:

  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Must be a resident of Alexandria or the surrounding parishes.

Participants will be compensated $110 at the conclusion of their session. Individuals are only permitted to attend one of the four scheduled sessions.

How to Apply

Those interested in participating or who have questions regarding the project should email info@proven-focus.com for more information.

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Alexandria man faces three counts of attempted murder

Alexandria man faces three counts of attempted murder

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

June 17

Kari Elaine Beard, 43, Pineville – possession of CDS, parole violations, contempt of court, $3,500 bail;

Brandon Deangelo Bryant, 38, Alexandria – four counts contempt of court, $100,000 bail;

Alexis Jonae Carter, 28, Alexandria – improper headlights, two counts contempt of court, $10,100 bail;

Michael Gene Johnson, 61, Alexandria – possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, improper lane usage, $1,600 bail;

Timothy Allen Johnson, 32, Glenmora – simple battery, criminal damage to property, simple assault intimidating, $2,000 bail;

Devacheay Tray Martin, 25, Pineville – attempted second degree murder, simple battery, three counts taking contraband to and from penal institutions, possession of firearm by convicted felon, parole violations, simple escape, possession of fentanyl, possession of marijuana, $606,000 bail;

Marissa Elizabeth Martin, 39, Alexandria – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $2,000 bail;

Henry Nelson III, 25, Alexandria – three counts attempted second degree murder, no bail data;

Marty Paul, 28, Trout – OWI third offense, open container, speeding, $1,200 bail;

Robert S. Paul, 42, Deville – theft, criminal damage to property, criminal trespass, $6,000 bail.

June 16

Derrick Lionel Baines, 47, Boyce – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, 12 counts contempt of court, $43,000 bail;

James Edward Baker III, 21, Ball – domestic abuse battery, $5,000 bail;

Germaneek Laterra Beyard, 32, Alexandria – four counts simple burglary, theft of a motor vehicle, theft, simple escape, Louisiana fugitive, $61,000 bail;

James Richard Burch, 39, Pineville – four counts contempt of court, $400,000 bail;

Joshua Dewayne Daniels, 26, Pineville – domestic abuse battery strangulation, obstruction of justice, parole violations, resisting an officer, possession of firearm by convicted felon, illegal possession of stolen firearm, $300,500 bail;

Terry Donaldson, 54, Pineville – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, Louisiana fugitive, $2,000 bail;

Coilynn Payne Grezaffi, 32, Forest Hill – simple burglary, trespassing aiding and abetting others, criminal conspiracy, $50,500 bail;

Charles Ray Jackson, 51, Alexandria – disturbing the peace, possession of drug paraphernalia, obstructing public passages, probation violation, two counts contempt of court, $5,000 bail;

Lionell Dewayne Johnson, 27, Alexandria – possession of firearm by convicted felon, illegal carry firearm with drugs, three counts possession of CDS, driving under suspension, tail lamps red light, $23,700 bail;

Rhonda Ann Lachney, 54, Marksville – theft, Louisiana fugitive, $25,000 bail;

Dantaveas Diante Lindsey, 32, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, possession of firearm by convicted felon, possession of firearm with obliterated serial number, resisting an officer, contempt of court, $48,000 bail;

Kedrick Dewayne Logan, 40, Alexandria – two counts simple burglary, unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, $8,500 bail;

Beverly Darlene Outlaw, 43, Ball – theft, criminal conspiracy, simple escape, $50,000 bail;

Dalvin Deshawn Smith, 33, Alexandria – possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of firearm by convicted felon, no license plate light, $15,600 bail;

Martin Dewayne Smith, 27, Alexandria – aggravated battery, two counts simple assault, $100,500 bail;

Devonte Thomas Taylor, 27, Alexandria – attempted second degree murder, possession of firearm by convicted felon, $850,000 bail.

June 15

Yoko Miliajahwon Atkins, 25, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, possession of firearm by convicted felon, illegal use of weapons, obstruction of justice, reckless operation of a vehicle, intentional littering, no head light, no driver’s license, safety belt violation, required position and turning, parole violations, $203,900 bail;

Richard Lance Billingsley, 34, Pineville – producing manufacturing distributing fentanyl, possession of paraphernalia, illegal carry firearm with drugs, tail lamps red light, $10,600 bail;

Elridge Quentin Fontenot, 33, Eunice – theft, simple battery, officer battery, resisting officer with force or violence, $2,000 bail;

Jonathan Charles Harris, 41, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing fentanyl, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of paraphernalia, $35,500 bail;

Joseph Burdette Leslie, 46, Des Allmends – OWI first offense, open container, improper lane usage, $1,200 bail;

Markas C. McMahan, 31, Pineville – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, resisting an officer, contempt of court, $7,500 bail;

Rickie Jontavis Morlte Jr., 23, Alexandria – theft of a motor vehicle, theft of identity, $10,000 bail;

Katrina Desha Robinson, 43, Alexandria – two counts contempt of court, $20,000 bail;

Kerry Denise Roszell, 43, Pineville – five counts possession of CDS, possession of drug paraphernalia, four counts contempt of court, $254,000 bail.

June 14

Ashley Bates, 31, Deville – domestic abuse battery, possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, $2,500 bail;

Kenderrius Rhondale Blackshear, 34, Pineville – driving under suspension, no child restraint system, no insurance, probation violation, contempt of court, $2,800 bail.


Cleco prepared for Tropical Storm Arthur

Customers encouraged to take precautions due to projected rainfall, flooding and high winds

Cleco is prepared for Tropical Storm Arthur, which is projected to bring heavy rain, flooding and high winds, as it moves northeastward across Louisiana tonight and tomorrow.

“As heavy rain and strong winds move through Cleco’s service territory, customers may experience outages,” said Clint Robichaux, director of distribution operations and reliability. “Cleco is ready to respond to any power outages caused by the storm, and we encourage customers to take the following precautions before and during the storm.”

How customers can prepare:

  • Create an emergency plan and be ready to evacuate if needed.
  • Prepare a storm kit with food, water, flashlights, batteries, medications and a first aid kit.
  • Test generators before the storm and operate them in a well-ventilated area.   
  • Never walk, swim or drive through floodwater. Turn around and find another route. If water begins rising around your home or business, turn off electricity at the main breaker and evacuate. Have an electrician check the wiring before using electricity.
  • Stay away from downed lines. Assume all downed power lines are energized.

How to report an outage:

Customers can report an outage by texting “OUT” to 69378 or by calling Cleco’s Customer Call Center at 1-800-622-6537.


Remembering Hubert Alvin “Sam” Baxter

Mr. Hubert Alvin “Sam” Baxter, age 86, entered eternal rest on Monday, June 15, 2026, in Alexandria at Christus St. Frances Cabrini Hospital.

The Visitation will be held at Palestine Methodist Church on Friday, June 19, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Services will begin at 12:00 p.m. with Rev. Kevin Smith, and Bro. James T. Brunson officiating with interment to follow in the church cemetery.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert Lee Baxter and Mabel Courtney Baxter; siblings, Travis Baxter, Vermell Steede, and Christine Tucker.

Those left to share and carry on his memories include his wife of 61 years, Annie Lois Mathis Baxter; children, Peggy Brunson (Doug) and Alvin Baxter (Candi); siblings, Doris Brown, James Rayburn Baxter, Ollie Ruth Gilbert, and JoAnn Bellisle; grandchildren, Cody Brunson (Kaitlyn), Baxter Brunson (Susan), Hunter Baxter (Mandi), and Hayden Brunson; great grandchildren, Jaxon, Ellie, Rowan, and Everlee Brunson and Allie Baxter.

Mr. Baxter was a loving husband, and an exceptional father, grandfather, and brother. He was born in Washington County, Alabama. When he was a baby, his family moved to the Barton Community and he was raised on his parents’ farm in Barton, Mississippi. It was here that he learned that a good garden was a necessity. While attending Bason High School, he was Captain of the basketball team and voted Most Athletic. Mr. Baxter worked for Shell Oil Company for 28 years in Exploration and earned the nickname, “Sam”. After retiring, he and Annie Lois moved home to Mississippi. There he enjoyed doing landscape work with his brother and nephews. Nine years later they returned to Louisiana to enjoy their children and grandchildren. He was over the moon when his grandson’s blessed him with 3 long awaited great grand-daughters. He had a great sense of humor and never seemed to get into too much of a hurry. He was very methodical, patient, and kind. Any road trip with “Daddy” or “Paw” included listening to Patsy Cline and Marty Robbins. After he was introduced to YouTube, any visit with him included The Gaither’s. He enjoyed gardening and sharing his produce with friends, and neighbors. His kindness and generosity will be missed. He gave much love and was loved by many.


Remembering Katherine Louise Ellis

With great sadness we announce that Katherine Louise Ellis, 33, passed away Friday, June 12, 2026. Born April 22, 1993, is survived by Matthew Ellis–father, Una Ellis–mother, and siblings Anthony and Annette. Birth mother to Ava, Elijah and Margaret.

Memorial and service will be held at Magnolia Funeral Home, 7357 Masonic Drive, Alexandria LA 71301, on Saturday, June 20, 2026. Viewing from 12:00 PM until 1:00 PM. Service from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM.

For anyone that would like to come help us celebrate Katie Ellis, we are asking that everyone wears a little pink. Thank you.


Notice of Death – June 17, 2026

Hubert Alvin Baxter
March 24, 1940 – June 15, 2026
Service: Friday, June 19, 2026, 12pm at Palestine Methodist Church, Ball.

Melodie Fitzwater Jeansonne
March 14, 1968 – June 14, 2026
Service: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 10am at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Stanley David Bohrer
December 18, 1940 – June 13, 2026
Service: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 11am at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, Alexandria.

Katherine Louise Ellis
April 22, 1993 – June 13, 2026
Service: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 1pm at Magnolia Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Roxie Quinney
December 18, 1945 – June 12, 2026
Service: Tuesday, June 23, 2026, 11am at Mount Triumph Missionary Baptist Church, Boyce.

Marlow Deshea Trottie
January 1, 1990 – June 8, 2026
Service: Friday, June 19, 2026, 11am at Winnfield Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Joseph Hudson, III
December 2, 1971 – June 6, 2026
Service: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 2pm at Second Union Missionary Baptist Church, Alexandria.

Virginia “Jenny” McCartney
January 31, 1951 – May 13, 2026
Service: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 10am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Alexandria. 

The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access.


District judges file disclosures

By JIM BUTLER

Financial disclosure statements indicate Ninth Judicial District judges have no business interests beyond property holdings and investment accounts.

Statements are required to be filed through the Louisiana Supreme Court annually. 

The seven judges, whose terms expire this year, include two reporting 2025 retirement income from previous legal careers.

Notes from each statement:

  • Greg Beard – judicial salary, investments income less than $25,000; 
  • Brian Cespiva – six months salary as assistant DA, 21/2 months judicial salary, before taking bench income as Pineville prosecutor, attorney for Ball, Glenmora, Alexandria and Leesville Fire & Police Civil Service Boards, $25,000-$100,000 DA retirement system; 
  • Mary Doggett – statement not posted as of June 16. Her 2024 summary includes interest in two properties enterprises, income less than $30,000; 
  • Chris Hazel – judicial salary, investments income less than $25,000; 
  • Loren Lampert (inducted this month into Louisiana Justice Hall of Fame) – judicial salary, $100,000+ DA retirement system withdrawal; 
  • Monique Rauls – judicial salary; 
  • David Williams – judicial salary, income from family-owned rental property, $25,000-$100,000, sale of rental property, $100,000+, sale of commercial property, $100,000+, filed for extensions on federal and state income tax reports.

Rapides Parish Police Jury to hold special meeting TODAY

The Rapides Parish Police Jury will hold a special meeting on Wednesday, June 17, at 3 p.m. in the Police Jury Meeting Room on the second floor of the Rapides Parish Courthouse, located at 701 Murray Street in Alexandria.

Jurors are scheduled to discuss and potentially take action on the final compensation study report prepared by SSA Consultants. The report is expected to be presented by Mr. Overton.

The agenda also includes consideration of a request from Shirley McTire for approval of five additional lots at 1380 Palmer Chapel Road in Pineville. The request has been recommended for approval by the Rapides Area Planning Commission and remains pending review by legal counsel.

The meeting will include an opportunity for public comment on agenda items before discussion and action by the Police Jury.

Following consideration of the agenda items, the meeting will adjourn.


Rapides Parish Weather Outlook: Storm chances increase midweek, heat index nearing triple digits by weekend

Rapides Parish will see an active stretch of weather through the end of the week with daily chances for showers and thunderstorms, followed by intensifying summer heat heading into early next week.

Wednesday brings a mix of partly sunny skies and humid conditions, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. Highs will reach the upper 80s with south winds around 10 to 15 mph and gusts up to 25 mph. Rain chances are near 50 percent.

Wednesday night turns mostly cloudy, with a continued chance of showers in the evening becoming more likely overnight along with thunderstorms. Lows will settle in the mid 70s with southeast winds shifting north after midnight. Rain chances increase to about 70 percent.

Thursday is expected to be one of the more active weather days, with showers likely and thunderstorms developing through the afternoon. Highs will hover around 90 degrees, but heat index values could climb up to 105. South winds will remain light at 5 to 10 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph. Rain chances remain high at 70 percent.

Thursday night stays unsettled with a chance of showers and thunderstorms under partly cloudy skies. Lows will be in the upper 70s, with a 40 percent chance of rain.

Juneteenth continues the active pattern with partly sunny skies and likely showers. Thunderstorms are possible in the morning, becoming more likely in the afternoon. Highs will reach the lower 90s with heat index values up to 105. Rain chances remain around 70 percent.

Friday night stays mostly cloudy with a chance of thunderstorms and showers. Lows will be in the mid 70s with rain chances near 50 percent.

Saturday will feature mostly cloudy skies early, becoming partly sunny later in the day with scattered showers and thunderstorms possible. Highs will be in the lower 90s with a 50 percent chance of rain.

Saturday night stays partly cloudy early, turning mostly cloudy overnight with lows in the mid 70s.

Sunday brings a brief break in activity with mostly sunny skies and highs in the lower 90s. Heat index values could again reach up to 105.

Sunday night will be mostly clear early, becoming partly cloudy with lows in the upper 70s.

Monday rounds out the period with mostly sunny skies and hotter conditions, as highs climb into the mid 90s. Heat index values could peak near 110, making it the hottest day of the stretch so far.