Notice of Death – July 26, 2026

Frances L. Paul
May 27, 1951 – July 24, 2026
Service: Wednesday, July 29, 2026, 10am at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball.

Doris Elaine Swan
April 5, 1942 – July 24, 2026
Service: Friday, July 31, 2026, 10am at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball.

Gwendolyn Simmons
July 23, 1963 – July 23, 2026
Service: Tuesday, July 28, 2026, 10am at Kramer & Son Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Earl K. Hines
February 16, 1940 – July 19, 2026
Service: Monday, July 27, 2026, 12pm at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball.

Brenda Sue White
December 14, 1958 – May 27, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 22, 2026, 11am at Calvary Baptist Church, Alexandria.

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


Checking the notebook

By JIM BUTLER

Here and there … 

Bank building update 

Recent death of the owner of the former Capital One Building at 3rd & Murray Streets raises anew questions about its role in future downtown development.


Darryl David Smith, 64, died in late June. A resident of Covington at the time, he was most familiarly known from years as a developer while living in Hammond, where he also owned another historic bank building.


His ownership firm apparently owed Alexandria upwards of $35,000 in utility charges when the building was abandoned two years ago.


Unconfirmed but repeatedly heard is that a prospective local buyer of the 10-story structure that began as Guaranty Bank more than a century ago is working on purchase details.


GAEDA appointment

One of two vacancies on the GAEDA governing board will be filled Tuesday.


According to the City Council agenda, District 4 councilwoman Lizzie Felter is nominating Kristen Lemoine.


Each of the seven council members has an at-will appointment to the economic development panel.


Lemoine will bring to six the seats filled. District 5 Councilman Chuck Fowler’s most recent nominee, Rod Noles, resigned in May before the ink was dry on his commission.


Martin Center complete

The Martin Family ROM Student Success Center at LSU Alexandria is essentially complete with acceptance pending. 


The almost-$12 million facility will enhance student support services and create dedicated space for academic resources and student engagement, according to school officials. 


Lining the ponds

Bids will be received through August 11 for pond liner improvements at the Booker Fowler Fish Hatchery near Forest Hill. 

The 30-year-old facility is the largest of the state’s four freshwater fish species hatcheries. 

LDWF has not been in consult with US Fish & Wildlife or other Washington sources regarding liner replacement procedures. 


Couvillion named LCU admissions director

Emily Couvillion has been named Louisiana Christian University’s director of admissions.

Couvillion previously served as an admissions counselor and the recruiter for the New Orleans area. She has worked for LCU since September.

“I am very excited to move into this year in this new role,” Couvillion said. “I feel as if we are building a great team, and I can’t wait to see LCU continue to grow.”

Couvillion graduated from LCU in 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in social work and in 2023 with her master’s degree.

“LCU has always been home, and last year when the Lord was beginning to close one door, He opened another,” she said. “I knew without a doubt this opportunity was from Him. The Lord leading me back here professionally is not something I was expecting, but it has been exactly what I needed.”

She will be responsible for coordinating the recent grant through Career Compass as the Beyond Graduation coach, as well as handling all recruiting and admissions for graduate programs.

“Emily is incredibly hard-working,” said Jana Lucky, executive director of Enrollment Management. “She is smart and always figures out the best way to do things.  She is also computer-savvy, which helps with our office’s processes and procedures.  Before she was named to the position of director of Admissions, the rest of the admissions counselors always went to her with their questions.”  


Traffic advisory issued for July 29 for Pineville High School footprint painting tradition

The Pineville Police Department is advising motorists to expect traffic delays on Wednesday, July 29, as Pineville High School faculty and students paint the footprints on Claiborne Street as part of a long-standing school tradition.

The painting is scheduled to take place from approximately 7 to 11 a.m. Motorists are encouraged to use an alternate route if possible.

Two Pineville police officers will be on site to assist with traffic control and address any traffic-related concerns.


Alexandria Police officers visit city summer camp

Officers with the Alexandria Police Department visited the City of Alexandria Summer Camp last week to give campers a closer look at motorcycle operations and the department’s K-9 teams.

The visit gave campers an opportunity to ask questions, meet officers and learn more about the work the department performs in the community.

The Alexandria Police Department said it appreciated the opportunity to connect with young people and share information about its daily operations.


Masonic Sports Court ribbon cutting nears

By TONYA CORLEY

The City of Alexandria is inviting the public to attend the Masonic Sports Court ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday, July 31, at 10 a.m. 

It is the first REIGNITE initiative ribbon cutting to celebrate a revitalized community destination designed to bring neighbors together, encourage active lifestyles, and provide recreational opportunities for all ages.

What originally was a four-court tennis complex built in the 1930s, the Masonic Sports Court has been completely reimagined into a modern, multi-use recreation facility.

The complex features six pickleball courts, one basketball court, four four-square courts, two hopscotch courts, two ping-pong tables, four cornhole sets, three chess/checkerboard tables with seating, newly resurfaced parking lot with 26 spaces and modern lighting for enhanced security and evening play.

Reconstruction and reconfiguration for the project was designed and engineered by City of Alexandria Engineering Department and Community Services Division. The lowest bid was submitted by Bayou Rapides Corporation and accepted December 4, 2025. 

The construction contract was awarded for $992,716, and construction began January 19, 2026.

(Corley is the city of Alexandria’s Deputy Chief of Staff and Community Services Director.)


Pineville Police warn public to stay off former Central State Hospital property

The Pineville Police Department is reminding the public that the former Central State Hospital grounds are off limits and warning that anyone found inside the buildings could face arrest.

According to the department, the buildings are extremely hazardous and entering them poses a serious risk of injury.

Police said several individuals were recently arrested for burglarizing the buildings and cautioned that trespassing on the property is not worth risking personal safety or criminal charges.

The department urged the public to stay out of the former Central State Hospital grounds.


Remembering Mazie Lou Brown Kirtland

Mrs. Mazie Lou Brown Kirtland, age 86, entered eternal rest on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Legacy Nursing and Rehab in Pollock.

Visitation for Mrs. Kirtland will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Services will start at 11:00 a.m. with interment to follow in Pollock Cemetery.

Pallbearers honored to serve are Christopher Kirtland, Zach Jones, Shannon Nugent, Kyle Clark, James LaCour, and Harold Roxburgh.

Mazie Lou Kirtland lived a full and fiery life, marked by her quick wit, stubborn charm, and deep devotion to the people she loved. A proud surgical tech for many years, she dedicated her career to caring for others and eventually retired from the surgery department at Huey P. Long. Her family was her heart, and being the last of her parents, siblings, and her beloved husband Ken was a heavy burden she carried with strength. As she grew older, she drew even closer to the Lord, shining a warm light to everyone who crossed her path. Mazie’s feisty personality was one of her greatest gifts. When her family joked about inheriting their stubbornness, she always replied, “Not from me, ’cause I still have mine!” Her 4 children,10 grandchildren, and 11 great grandchildren are grateful for every moment they shared with her spit fire spirit. She was ready to begin her eternity in Heaven and reunite with her loved ones, especially Ken. Mazie leaves behind a legacy of faith, resilience, and love. A legacy her family will carry proudly for generations.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Kirtland, Jr.; parents, Willie Brown and DeWanna Horn Brown; and siblings, Madge, Len, Wanda, Kay, and Peggy.

Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Kenneth “Buddy” Kirtland, III (Angie), DeRene LaCour, Jeff Kirtland (Regina), and Rodney Kirtland; 10 grandchildren, Erika Chelette, (Dylan), Kenneth Kirtland, IV (Caitlin), Melissa Nugent (Shannon), Christon Jones (Zach), Sarah LaCour (Jordan), James LaCour (Jordan), Christopher Kirtland, Allison Belgard (Daniel), Brittney Kings (Corey), and Brandon Kirtland; great grandchildren, Juliet, Cora, Christian, Easton, Carmen, Jocelyn, Colt, Luke, Madyson, Dalton, and Jaxson; and a host of extended family and friends.


Remembering Jaskyla Lanae James

Jaskyla Lanae James was born on September 26, 2019, to Jalisa Moore and Jarvus James. She was called home to rest on July 13, 2026, at her home with her mother and father by her side.

She leaves to cherish her memory her three sisters, Jaziya, Aniya, and Jamia James, all of Marksville, Louisiana; her grandmother, Leslie Moore of Cottonport, Louisiana; her grandmother, Beanna James of Marksville, Louisiana; her grandparents, Roniel and Ashley Seaberry of Cottonport, Louisiana; and her great-grandmother, Edna Washington of Cottonport, Louisiana.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Jarvus James, Jr., of Marksville, Louisiana; her great-grandfather, Tyler Seaberry II, of New Orleans, Louisiana; her great-grandfather, Andy James of Marksville, Louisiana; her great-grandmother, Beanna James of Mansura, Louisiana; her great-great-grandmother, Alice James of Marksville, Louisiana; her great-grandmother, Betty Moore of Cottonport, Louisiana; her great-great-grandparents, Mary Moore and Calvin Moore Sr. of Cottonport, Louisiana; and her great-great-grandfather, Herman Jenkins of Cottonport, Louisiana.

She also leaves a host of loving godparents: Sheryl Moore of Cottonport, Louisiana; Victoria Laurent of Cottonport, Louisiana; Alexia Thornton of Cottonport, Louisiana; and Brandon Anderson of Bunkie, Louisiana.

Service
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Funeral service at New Jerusalem Baptist Church
7008 Martin Luther King Drive, Mansura


Notice of Death – July 23, 2026

Mazie Lou Kirtland
September 1, 1939 – July 21, 2026
Service: Saturday, July 25, 2026, 11am at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball.

Bobby Gene Mills
January 10, 1944 – July 20, 2026
Service: Friday, July 24, 2026, 10am at Elwood Baptist Church, Forest Hill.

Earl K. Hines
February 16, 1940 – July 19, 2026
Service: Monday, July 27, 2026, 12pm at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball.

Janelle Mizell Allen
December 8, 1940 – July 18, 2026
Service: Friday, July 24, 2026, 10am at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Juanita “Nitty” Williams
May 14, 1951 – July 16, 2026
Service: Saturday, July 25, 2026, 12pm at Mount Olive Baptist Church, Alexandria.

JaKobey X. Kahey
December 31, 2003 – July 9, 2026
Service: Saturday, July 25, 2026, 1pm at Zion Hill Church Family, Pineville.

Kim Alayne Gordy
December 15, 1963 – July 4, 2026
Service: Friday, July 24, 2026, 3pm at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball.

Brenda Sue White
December 14, 1958 – May 27, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 22, 2026, 11am at Calvary Baptist Church, Alexandria.

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


England Authority to receive demonstrations proposal

By JIM BUTLER

England Authority commissioners will be asked today to accept and layover until August an ordinance governing organized demonstration and assembly on its properties.

The 19-page document emerged from committee earlier this week.

Its stated purpose includes protecting public safety and airport operations.

Language goes to length to make it clear the permitting process is not predicated on the content or viewpoint of the organizers of any such activity on property owned or controlled by the Authority, including subdistricts.

The permit requirement applies to any activity organized in advance that meets one or more of a list of conditions.

Granting or denying a permit is entrusted to the executive director, with a dozen or so common sense reasons for rejection listed.

Any permit denial can be appealed to Authority officers.

The executive director will also establish a permit fee schedule.


Rapides Parish Library honors June Arrington for 10 years of service

The Rapides Parish Library recognized Mrs. June Arrington during this month’s Rapides Parish Library Board meeting as she retired from the library board after 10 years of service.

During her tenure, Arrington served as the Rapides Parish Library Board treasurer and supported the library system, its staff, patrons and the Rapides Parish community.

According to the library, Arrington remained engaged and committed to the continued growth of the Rapides Parish Library, with a focus on literacy, learning and public service.

The Rapides Parish Library Board, administration and staff thanked Arrington for her leadership, generosity and support and wished her well in her retirement.


Facade grant program highlights renovation at 414 Main Street

The Pineville Downtown Development District has highlighted the renovation of 414 Main Street as one of the latest recipients of its Facade Grant Program.

The project transformed the property into a new gas station and convenience store. Improvements included raising one side of the building, adding brick to the exterior and creating a new appearance at the entrance to downtown Pineville.

According to the Pineville Downtown Development District, its Facade Grant Program has helped local businesses invest in their properties since 2020 by reimbursing 50% of eligible exterior improvements, up to $20,000 in project costs. Eligible improvements include paint, landscaping, awnings, brickwork and other exterior enhancements.

The district encourages visitors to stop by 414 Main Street to see the completed renovation.


RPSO detectives assist BRPD-SVU in criminal sexual conduct investigation

On February 27, 2026, Sheriff’s Detectives from the Kolin Substation received a report of alleged criminal sexual conduct that was first believed to have been committed in RPSO jurisdiction.  Detectives began their investigation immediately, conducting multiple interviews, collecting evidence, obtaining search warrants, and pursuing all available investigative leads to determine the circumstances surrounding the allegations.

Through the course of the investigation, Sheriff’s Detectives identified the suspect as a registered sex offender, David Coburn 51, of Pineville LA.  During their investigation detectives also determined the alleged offense (s) had occurred within the jurisdiction of the Baton Rouge Police Department.  After making that determination, RPSO detectives worked closely with the Baton Rouge Police Department’s Special Victims Unit, providing the results of their investigation and coordinating efforts with the BRPD SVU.  

Through the collaborative efforts of both the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Baton Rouge Police Department’s Special Victims Unit, BRPD investigators secured an arrest warrant for David Coburn.  On the evening of July 21, 2026, Coburn turned himself to authorities at the East Baton Rouge Parish Jail, where he was booked on one count Sexual Battery.

Sheriff’s Detectives say their investigation is still open in the event other victims may come forward.  Anyone with information related to this investigation are asked to contact the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office at 318-473-6700 or Detective Tim Stanley at the Kolin Substation at 318-484-7350.

We would like to thank Chief Thomas “TJ” Morse, Jr. and the Baton Rouge PD Special Victims Unit for their assistance in this investigation.


Alexandria man accused of drug, gun charges racks up six-figure bail 

Arrests are accusations, not convictions. 

July 22 

Luis Cabrera-Fermin, 49, Alexandria – aggravated assault with firearm, possession of marijuana, possession of CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, $112,000 bail; 

Xzaveyion Deshawn Ford, 24, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery strangulation, $20,000 bail; 

James Todd Lowery, 61, Deville – identity theft of person 65 years older or disabled, no bail data; 

Harley Seaward, 41, Alexandria – obstruction of justice, $10,000 bail; 

Terrick Gwayne Sewell, 37, Alexandria – criminal conspiracy, transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses, parole violations, $50,000 bail; 

Clint Louis Strother III, 30, Oakdale – theft, criminal damage to property, criminal trespass, $500 bail; 

Jose Viera, 54, Alexandria – aggravated assault with a firearm, $100,000 bail; 

Starlyn Wallace, 57, Pineville – two counts aggravated assault, disturbing the peace, $500 bail. 

July 21 

Waylon Jacob Bennett, 33, Flatwood – simple obstruction of highway, two counts contempt of court, disturbing the peace, $11,000 bail; 

Sharata S. Courtney, 36, Alexandria – aggravated assault with a firearm, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, two counts possession of CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, $63,000 bail; 

Shawn Nicholas Cunningham, 44, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, driving under suspension, modified exhaust, Louisiana fugitive, $1,700 bail; 

Elizabeth Hope Day, 22, Pineville – possession of CDS, driving under suspension, possession of drug paraphernalia, two counts failure to appear, contempt of court, $7,300 bail; 

Lisa Michelle Girtley, 48, Lecompte – possession of CDS, $1,500 bail; 

Jonathan Charles Harris, 41, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing fentanyl, possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses, five counts contempt of court, $145,000 bail; 

Christopher Hollis, 29, Deville – three counts contempt of court, $51,500 bail; 

Gregory Hosier, 58, Alexandria – bicycle reflectors required, possession of marijuana, five counts contempt of court, $8,100 bail; 

Zykeyland Johnson, 25, Mansfield – taking contraband to and from penal institutions, simple battery, $10,000 bail; 

Ariel Elizabeth Keller, 30, Forest Hill – possession of CDS, theft, resisting an officer, parish probation violation, $2,000 bail; 

James Paul Kendrick, 41, Jena – theft, two counts contempt of court, $4,000 bail; 

Shawn Patrick Lacombe, 48, Pollock – possession of CDS, $1,000 bail; 

Brittany Noel Lemoine, 31, Alexandria – possession of CDS, obstruction of justice, contempt of court, $7,500 bail; 

Eric Matthew Meginley II, 27, Pineville – two counts possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, $3,500 bail; 

Justin Matthew Sterling, 39, Pineville – simple burglary, resisting an officer, criminal conspiracy, criminal damage to property, parole violations, $35,500 bail. 

July 20 

Candace Emanual Mike Frank, 41, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery strangulation, $300,000 bail; 

Kunta Kinte Irving, 45, Alexandria – aggravated battery on police officer, two counts aggravated resisting a police officer with force or violence, driving under suspension, reckless operation of vehicle, running a stop sign, tail lamps red light, improper turn, two counts running a red light, aggravated obstruction of highway, speeding, flight from an officer, resisting an officer, $66,700 bail; 

Bryce G. Pickard, 27, Alexandria – theft, violation of protective orders, $2,000 bail; 

Christopher Hosea Wilson, 38, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing cocaine, Louisiana fugitive, parole violations, reckless operation of vehicle, criminal damage to property, no driver’s license, illegal carry firearms with drugs, possession of firearm by convicted felon, flight from an officer, tail lamps red light, running a stop sign, $101,200 bail. 

July 19 

Luvenia Ann Baggett, 40, Alexandria – theft, criminal trespass, 33 counts contempt of court, $54,500 bail; 

Gary Dewayne Baltazar, 42, Glenmora – criminal trespass (third/subsequent offense), $500 bail; 

Koron Harry Bordley, 21, Alexandria – battery of a dating partner, theft, simple assault, criminal damage to property, unlawful telephone communication, $5,000 bail; 

Cameron Christian, 28, Woodworth – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail; 

Casey Wayne Davison, 28, Pollock – domestic abuse battery with child present, $5,000 bail; 

Tyrone L. Lincoln, 50, Alexandria – theft, three counts contempt of court, $200,500 bail; 

Garry Wayne McClinton Jr., 39, Alexandria – theft, possession of CDS, resisting an officer, parole violations, $2,500 bail; 

Alex Pernell Morris, 60, Dallas – careless operation of vehicle, improper lane usage, following too close, flight from an officer, resisting an officer, $1,300 bail; 

Byron Lenard Murrell, 60, Dallas – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, obstruction of justice, resisting an officer, $3,500 bail; 

Charles Glenn Phillips, 34, Pineville – aggravated assault with a firearm, disturbing the peace, $25,500 bail; 

George L. Price Jr., 49, Pineville – domestic abuse battery strangulation, $50,000 bail. 


Remembering Louise (Lou) Walker

Louise (Lou) Walker passed away on Saturday, July 18, 2026 in Kerrville Texas at the age of 95. She was born in Alexandria, Louisiana along with her twin sister, Mildred Ann Reid. Growing up in Alexandria, she graduated from Bolton High School and attended Northwestern College in Natchitoches, Louisiana. She was also employed in Alexandria with General Motors Acceptance Corporation. She met her future husband at a picnic, and they courted for over a year. They were married at Homewood Baptist Church in Alexandria on June 18, 1955. Their wedding trip was a return to Waco, Texas where husband Bob, was stationed with the United States Air Force. While in Waco, their first child, Nancy Jane, was born. In 1960, they moved to Okinawa, Japan for 3 years during which time their son, John Marshall, was born. Then they returned to the U.S., where they enjoyed many assignments in Cheyenne, Wyoming; Riverside, California; San Bernadino, California; and Minot, North Dakota supporting her husband in the U.S. Air Force. During their assignment in Riverside, California (March AFB), Lou decided to go back to work, as the children were in college or on their own. She went to work as an executive secretary at Security Pacific National Bank (now part of Bank of America). After retiring from Bank of America in 1991, she returned to work at the Riverside Branch of Chino Valley Bank until she moved to the Texas hill country in 1994. Since arriving in Texas, she was active in numerous civic activities and at Trinity Baptist Church in Kerrville, TX. 

She is preceded in death by her husband of 69 years, Colonel Robert E. Walker. She is survived by her daughter, Nancy Jane Moore (Danny); son, John Marshall Walker (Diane); and 3 grandchildren (Cameron Walker, Sara Walker, and Lauren Walker). 

A private family ceremony will be held. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Trinity Baptist Church in Kerrville Texas, “Blessed to Bless” building offerings or to a charitable organization of your choice.


Remembering Bobby Gene Mills

Funeral services for Mr. Bobby Gene Mills will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026, at Elwood Baptist Church, Forest Hill, with Reverend Michael Evans officiating. Interment will follow in Butter Cemetery, Forest Hill, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Oakdale.

Mr. Mills, 82, of Forest Hill, entered eternal rest on Monday, July 20, 2026, in his residence surrounded by his loving family.

Bobby worked for Dresser Industries for thirty-five years as a Production Scheduler. He began his career building valves on the assembly line before advancing to the role of Production Scheduler, where he spent the remainder of his career. He had a strong mechanical aptitude and thoroughly enjoyed his years there, considering his coworkers to be like family.

He also spent more than half of his life serving as the Music Minister at Elwood Baptist Church, a role that brought him tremendous joy. His loving wife, Helen, and their children shared his passion for music, and they often sang special music together during church services. Bobby was also an ordained deacon, faithfully serving his church and community from 1976 onward as the Lord led him.

During his retirement, Bobby loved camping and fishing. He and Helen traveled across the United States, enjoying the beauty and sights along the way. They later joined a camping club, which became another extended family to them. They often took their grandchildren camping, creating many cherished memories together at Indian Creek.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Rosie Mills; one brother, Dennis Mills; and one sister, Janice McLaurin.

Blessed to cherish his memories are his faithful wife of sixty-three years, Helen Mills; his daughter, Tracey Lemoine (Pete); his son, Robert Mills (Kim); one brother, Jerry Mills (Patsy) of Malvern, Alabama; two sisters, Joann Duming of San Antonio, Texas, and Mary Jordin of Slocomb, Alabama; four grandchildren, Meghan Awalt (David), Kyle Smith (Katlyn), Joe Lemoine, and Dustin Mills (Charnika); and seven great-grandchildren, Connie and Faye Awalt, Asher Babin, Harper, Kimber, and Colter Smith, and Karson Mills.

A time of visitation will be held at Elwood Baptist Church, Forest Hill, on Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Visitation will resume at the church on Friday, July 24, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. until time of service.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are: Brett Faulk, Kyle Smith, Joe Lemoine, Dustin Mills, Robert Mills, and Pete Lemoine.


Word of the Day: Epistolary

Phonetic: /epis·​to·​lary/

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition

of, relating to, or suitable to a letter

contained in or carried on by letters
an endless sequence of … epistolary love affairs.
The Times Literary Supplement (London)

written in the form of a series of letters
an epistolary novel