Kiwanis Club of Alexandria learns about Cenla City Stars program

Members of the Kiwanis Club of Alexandria recently learned about the Cenla City Stars Program, a new sports opportunity being developed for boys in grades 3 through 8 in Central Louisiana.

The program is being developed by Cedric Conston and Gary Boatman.

The Kiwanis Club said it looks forward to seeing the program succeed.

Pictured from left are Cedric Conston, Kiwanis Club President-Elect Jerry Edwards and Gary Boatman.


District 8-I Lions deliver flood relief supplies to Avoyelles Parish

Several Lions from across District 8-I delivered flood relief supplies to Avoyelles Parish on Sunday as part of a $15,000 relief grant from the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) received by District Governor Lion Susan Ballard.

Lions from Winnfield, Pineville, Alexandria, Cottonport and surrounding communities worked together to load, transport and unload supplies at the emergency storage facility in Marksville.

The effort was made possible through the LCIF relief grant.

The Lions Clubs’ motto, “Where there is a need, there is a Lion,” was shared in recognition of the relief effort.

The Pineville Lions Club also thanked the Lions Clubs International Foundation for its support.


Jimmy Johnson receives Service Appreciation Award

Jimmy Johnson has received the Service Appreciation Award from Symrna 7th Day Adventist Church.

Johnson, who serves as a chef at Manna House Ministries in Alexandria, was recognized for preparing meals with passion and dedication.

Manna House Ministries also recognized Johnson as a veteran who served the country and thanked him for his continued care in providing nutritious meals to those in need who visit the ministry.


Remembering Linda Diane Duplissey

Mrs. Linda Diane Duplissey, 78, of Deville, entered eternal rest on Saturday, July 18, 2026, in CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital, Alexandria, Louisiana.

Linda was a loving wife, devoted mother, and proud grandmother. She enjoyed crocheting, watching rodeos, and sharing the latest gossip with the people she loved most. Her warmth, laughter, and love for family made every gathering a little more special. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie and Lucy Crooks; and one brother, J.D. Crooks.

Those left to mourn her loss and cherish her memory include her loving husband of almost sixty years, Gerald Wayne Duplissey, Sr. of Deville; one son, Gerald “Bud” Duplissey, Jr. (Tammy) of Deville; two daughters, Syrina Duplissey (Robert) of Pineville, and Lawanda Goudeau (Jack) of Bentley; one grandsons, Brian Martin (Kayla); four granddaughters, Amber Belgard (Seth), Angel Rachal (Chris), Victoria Jones (Will), and Madelyn Gore; four great grandsons, Kashmin, Kavan, William, and C.J.; four great granddaughters, Kailyn, Celena, Kendalyn, and Emily; one sister, Elizabeth Nell Deville; and one sister-in-law, Phyllis Crooks.

All funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, LA.


Remembering Juanita Williams

Juanita Williams, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and devoted woman of God, passed away on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at the age of 75.

She was born on May 14, 1951, in Bayou Rapides, Louisiana, to the late Pearl Davis Williams and Ben Williams. She grew up in Bayou Rapides and Alexandria’s Lower Third neighborhood.

Juanita accepted Christ at an early age at Mount Olive Baptist Church, where she developed a lifelong love for music and ministry. She was educated in the Rapides Parish School System and graduated from Peabody High School in 1971.

She worked at Sam’s Store before beginning a 28-year career with International Paper Company in Pineville, where she served in the shipping department and advanced to the position of First Shipper. She also served on the company’s hiring committee.

A faithful member of Mount Olive Baptist Church, Juanita served as president of the Senior Choir and Mass Choir. She was known for her strong faith, generous spirit, warm smile, and dedication to her family, church, and community.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Pearl Davis Williams and Ben Williams; her brother, Roosevelt Williams; and her sisters, Brenda Mae Williams, Linda Faye Williams, and Dorothy Smedley.

She is survived by her daughter, Joslyn Williams of Alexandria; her granddaughters, Precious Brandy Williams of Alexandria and Diamond Williams of Lafayette; her great-grandson, Aiden Batiste of Alexandria; her sister, Delores Coleman of Houston; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, church family, and friends.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 25, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Mount Olive Baptist Church, 4711 England Drive, Alexandria. Final committal rites will follow from 2:00 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. at Oak Island Cemetery, England Air Park, Alexandria.


Remember This: The unwelcome tenants

In the early months of 1915, New York policemen knew unsavory characters had been living rent free in the dilapidated and seemingly abandoned building across the street from their station house in Brooklyn.  Finally, in late April, construction workers began demolishing the old building.  Only then did the policemen realize the scope of their problem.  As each floor was systematically disassembled, the unwelcome tenants just moved closer to street level.  The tenants that left the building took up residence in adjoining buildings or lived in the street.  They even began occupying the police station itself.  When policemen chased one away, it seemed that two or three more would take its place.  The New York Times reported, “Policemen who have faced all kinds of danger unflinchingly do not hesitate to say that it makes them feel decidedly uncomfortable.” That was an understatement.  The problem with the unwelcome tenants was out of control.  It affected all of the policemen in one way or another.  Some were unable to eat properly.  Others were unable to get a good night’s sleep.  Their work performance waned.  The whole area was going to pot.  The problem was not relegated to a single station house.  Other New York police station houses including Morrisania Police Station, Alexander Avenue station, and West 152d Street station were facing similar crises.               

In May 1915, the New York City Police Department added more than 100 new officers from a certain local tribe whose sole purpose was to rid their areas of the unwanted tenants by any means necessary.  A team of new officers at the Morrisania Police Station was led by an officer named Peter whom that station’s Lieutenant Peter Brady had adopted and named after himself years earlier.  In some cases, the police department filled the position by using the local homeless population, which solved two problems at the same time.  At the Alexander Avenue station, one new officer was not only homeless but nameless as well.  At the time of the New Yok Times’s report, the other officers at the Alexander Avenue station were trying to come up with a name for him.  One of the new officers at the Brooklyn Station who was described as being large and battle-scarred took the “by any means necessary” portion of his orders to heart.  The New York Times reported, “No count was kept of the number of [them] which [he] dispatched, but those he failed to slay he routed completely from the station house, so terrifying them that, according to the police, [none] since has had the temerity to show his nose in the place.”  With the help of the new officers, the crisis of the New York Police Department was resolved.  Why have you not heard of this murdering cop or his fellow officers who certainly performed similar atrocities against the unwelcome tenants?  They were from, as the New York Times reported, the “Feline Tribe.”  Those police officers and the unwelcome tenants were respectively… cats and rats.        

Source: New York Times, May 7, 1915, p. 23.


Notice of Death – July 20, 2026

Milton Coffman
April 4, 1940 – July 19, 2026
Service: Wednesday, July 22, 2026, 10am at St. Clair Baptist Church, Boyce.

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

Gary Marvin Normand
November 19, 1950 – July 18, 2026
Service: Thursday, July 23, 2026, 11am at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball.

Peggy Smith Paul
January 26, 1945 – July 18, 2026
Service: Wednesday, July 22, 2026, 2pm at Bethel Baptist Church, Glenmora.

Larry Eugene Grayson
January 6, 1938 – July 17, 2026
Service: Tuesday, July 21, 2026, 11am at Chapel of Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Kent Austin Sanson
January 28, 2010 – July 17, 2026
Service: Thursday, July 23, 2026, 9am at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

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

Elizabeth Brook Richardson
April 6, 1964 – July 15, 2026
Service: Tuesday, July 21, 2026, 10am at Journey Church, Pineville.

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

A’Layna Laiken Kali Duruisseau
October 22, 2003 — July 8, 2026
Service: Tuesday, July 21, 2026, 11am at St. Matthew’s Baptist Church, Boyce.

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.


Sheriff’s Detectives working business burglary in the Forest Hill area

A Patrol Deputy conducting building checks in the Forest Hill community on July 20 around 6 am located a business in the 3900 block of LA Highway 112 that had been burglarized.

According to the initial information, the suspects gained entry through the front door and located the ATM.  The ATM was broken into and an undetermined amount of cash was taken.  At this time, no other items were reported stolen.

Sheriff’s Detectives and Crime Scene Unit responded to conduct their investigation and gather evidence.

Detectives say this is still an ongoing, active investigation and if anyone has any information on this crime, they are asked to contact RPSO Main Office at 318-473-6700, Criminal Investigation Division at 318-473-6727 or Crime Stoppers at 318-443-7867.


Solar project proposed in western Rapides

Map outlines two solar array locations and generation transmission line north to substation.

By JIM BUTLER

A Texas firm seeks Corps of Engineers approval for a 10,000-acre solar array project in the Calcasieu River watershed south and west of Hineston.

Treaty Oak Clean Energy of Austin has two solar projects underway in Louisiana, in Morehouse and Sabine Parishes, with projected investment of $810 million.

The firm is a company in the portfolio of Macquarie Asset Management, immediate past owner of Cleco.

Army Corps of Engineers New Orleans District lists the project address as 2307 LA 122, Hineston, which locates its entry point as near Rush Funeral Home in that community.

Corps preliminary study finds no impact on jurisdictional wetlands and minimum impact on the Louisiana pine snake and the Northern long-eared bat.

A Clean Water Act permit is required due to impact on waters associated with the Calcasieu.

There are three parts to the proposal: Phase 1, about 4,600 acres of solar array and substation; Phase 2, about 5,700 aces of solar array; Phase 3, nine-mile generation interconnect aerial utility line – all to provide renewable energy.

A period for public comment closes August 2. The permit application number is MVN-2026-00184-WLL.

According to Corps notice, comment may be directed to michael.h.herrmann@usace.army.mil

More information is available at the Corps website.


City of Pineville reminds property owners to maintain vegetation

The City of Pineville reminded property owners to properly maintain grass, weeds, bushes, shrubs and other vegetation on all properties, including vacant lots, as part of its efforts to keep the community clean, safe and attractive.

According to the city, overgrown vegetation can affect the appearance of neighborhoods, create safety hazards, attract rodents and insects, reduce visibility for motorists and pedestrians, and impact surrounding property values.

The city asked property owners to inspect their property and ensure that:

  • Grass and weeds are cut and maintained.
  • Bushes, hedges and shrubs are trimmed.
  • Dead vegetation and yard debris are removed.
  • Vacant lots receive the same routine maintenance as occupied properties.

The city said the requirements are enforced under the City of Pineville Code of Ordinances governing weeds, grass and nuisance vegetation. Property owners who fail to maintain their property may be subject to notice, abatement by the city, and assessment of the associated costs as authorized by the city code.

Additional information is available at: https://www.pineville.net/egov/apps/document/center.egov?view=item;id=503.


Rapides Parish School Board recognizes students for national Beta, rodeo achievements

The Rapides Parish School Board recognized several students during its July board meeting for earning state and national honors.

The recognition included students who represented several Rapides Parish schools at the 2026 National Beta Convention, where they competed alongside students from across the country. National Beta recognizes students for academic excellence, leadership, character and service through academic competitions and creative showcases.

Students recognized included:

Nachman Elementary

  • Evan Mailettu J., who placed third nationally in fourth-grade Social Studies Academics.
  • The Project Proposal Team of Sophie D., Kennedy W., Bellamy R., Kollyn T. and Kamryn D., which won first place.
  • The Collaboration Connection Team of Addisyn M., Jordyn M., Ian M., Dillion S. and Kenley P., which placed 10th nationally following a score recalculation.

Rosenthal Montessori

  • Cordarius J., who placed 10th nationally in fifth-grade Health and Physical Education.
  • Kylan and Londyn, who won first place in the Elementary Performing Arts Variety Act competition.

Bolton Academy

  • Evelyn P., who won the On-Site Drawing Competition at the 2026 National Senior Beta Convention.

The board also recognized Hayzen R., the National Jr. High Rodeo Association’s Louisiana state champion. Hayzen is a two-time Louisiana Jr. High Rodeo state champion in Team Roping as the Header, earning the title during both his fifth- and sixth-grade years. He is also a two-time Louisiana Jr. High Rodeo National Finalist.


Burns headed home happy after near-miss at British Open

Former LSU All-American Sam Burns watches his 128-yard approach shot on the second hole Sunday finish four feet from the cup, leading to his only birdie in the closing round of the British Open.

By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports

There’s never been a time in Sam Burns’ nine-year professional golf career where not winning carried less sting than it did Sunday, when the former LSU All-American couldn’t hold the lead in the 154th British Open.

Burns birdied the second hole Sunday to open a three-shot advantage, but it quickly disappeared with three straight bogeys on holes 4-6. He steadied himself and parred the remaining 12 holes, but was overtaken by his playing partner, New Zealander Ryan Fox, who sank a 12-foot birdie putt on the final hole to win.

American Cameron Young charged in with a 6-under-par 64 and was the runner-up, one shot back at 9-under. Burns closed a remarkable weekend with a 72 and finished third at 8-under.

He set an all-time pro golf record Saturday when he followed his record-tying round of 62 on Friday with a 65 Saturday. Burns’ 127 shots over that 36-hole span are the fewest in golf’s major championship history dating back over a century.  They came on the heels of a 3-over 73 in the opening round Thursday that left him tied for 106th. 

After he surged into sole possession of the lead Saturday, with a 10-under card through 54 holes, Burns looked ahead to Sunday’s round and quickly getting home to his wife Caroline and their two kids – 2-year-old son Bear and infant daughter Belle, born July 3.

“Ultimately, whatever happens, I know that I can accept the outcome, and life’s going to move on,” Burns said Saturday evening. “I’ll get to go home and see my family. I hope I’m taking some hardware with me, but if I’m not, that’s fine, too.”

Belle’s arrival came 11 days early, and ultimately that surprise opened the door for Burns to compete in golf’s final major of 2026. Caroline’s encouragement convinced Burns to travel to England, instead of withdrawing from the tourney field as he planned to do.

So while he was cheery in the excitement of holding the lead entering the final day, he wasn’t morose in the aftermath of the tournament’s outcome. Burns was happy Sunday evening to be returning home to Choudrant to reunite with his new foursome.

“I’ve been counting down the minutes since I got here,” he said. “Obviously I miss them a ton, and I can’t wait to get home.”

Before he left Royal Birkdale Saturday night holding a two-shot lead, those priorities were clearly expressed.

“Ultimately, whatever happens, I know that I can accept the outcome, and life’s going to move on,” Burns said Saturday evening. “I’ll get to go home and see my family. I hope I’m taking some hardware with me, but if I’m not, that’s fine, too.”

This outcome didn’t carry the sting that accompanied his runner-up finish in mid-June on Father’s Day at the U.S. Open, when he was in and out of the lead through the weekend and missed a 17-foot birdie putt on the final hole, sliding past on the right edge of the cup, that would have put him into a playoff.

A month later, with his third top 10 finish in this year’s four majors and fourth top 10 in the last six dating back to last summer, Burns didn’t appear emotional in the aftermath.

“I played a lot of great golf this week. Unfortunately I didn’t have my best today, and that showed,” he said. “Made a couple mistakes early. Actually, I feel like I played really well down the stretch. One or two things got in my way, and unfortunately it just didn’t happen (for me).”

Back nine highlights for the Shreveport native were sinking a 27-footer to save par on No. 13 and remain at 8-under, and a  pressure-packed 340-yard drive down the middle on the par-4, 501-yard 18th hole to give him a shot at a birdie that for the moment would have tied Fox and Young for first. His 28-foot birdie putt was a couple inches right of the hole.

Fox captured the fabled Claret Jug, the Open Championship’s trophy, with his closing birdie conversion. Fox birded four of his final six holes and carried home a $3.2 million winner’s purse. Burns collected $1.1 million.

“My hat’s off to Ryan. He played an unbelievable round of golf on the back nine. A well-earned champion,” said Burns. “He hit the shots when he needed to, and he executed at the right moments, and that’s ultimately what it takes. Obviously, a very cool moment for him, and it was even cool for me to be able to watch him, and hopefully I’ll get to experience that one day.”

But first, he’ll be smiling broadly while changing diapers.


Alexandria man faces 15 charges, including violation of protective order

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

July 19

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

Ethan Daniel Gates, 19, Pineville – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, open container, $1,200 bail;

Davion Ledearian Smith, 33, Alexandria – aggravated assault with a firearm, domestic abuse battery, unauthorized entry of inhabited dwelling, resisting an officer, parole violations, $500 bail.


July 18

Nathan Hanson, 29, Alexandria – simple arson, four counts contempt of court, $11,000 bail;

Christeen Shantelle Hobbs, 29, Alexandria – theft of a motor vehicle, three counts contempt of court, $13,000 bail;

Zenila Jones, 20, Dry Prong – OWI first offense, open container, $1,100 bail;

Myron Renard Moore, 58, Alexandria – theft, two counts contempt of court, $2,000 bail.

July 17

Earnest Baker, 38, Monroe – possession of CDS, domestic abuse battery, no bail data;

Jerome Blue Jr., 21, Alexandria – illegal discharge of weapon in zoned subdivision, criminal trespass, headlamps, $3,100 bail;

Crystal Burlew, 45, Deville – aggravated domestic abuse battery with child present, $1,000 bail;

Malcolm Rashod Fay, 27, Alexandria – violation of protective order, 14 counts contempt of court, $62,000 bail;

Landon James Fulcher, 27, Pineville – two counts simple escape, probation violation, $50,000 bail;

David Andrew Hazelton, 24, Centerpoint – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail;

Spencer Theralis Lavalais, 35, Alexandria – OWI second offense, open container, stopping on shoulder, $1,700 bail;

John R. Sally, 67, Otis – second degree battery, $1,000 bail;

Robert Jo’mau Tisjalee Scudder, 33, Alexandria – domestic abuse aggravated assault, child endangerment, two counts contempt of court, $22,500 bail;

Nachia Renee Stafford, 38, Alexandria – theft, simple assault, 11 counts of contempt of court, $21,250 bail

July 16

Ryan Cody Bladel, 38, Pollock – OWI second offense, driving under suspension, safety belt, open container, canceled plate violation, $1,900 bail;

Jacob John Cormier, 41, Alexandria – stalking, $10,000 bail;

Michael Patrick Kelly, 52, Cape May, N.J. – simple burglary, criminal damage to property, criminal conspiracy, $21,000 bail;

Erin Rachal, 20, Alexandria – OWI first offense, no head light, $1,100 bail;

Bryan Anthony Waldron, 37, Pineville – possession of CDS, driving under suspension, no vehicle registration, no insurance, $1,800 bail;

Johnny Lewis Wilson, 62, Alexandria – 12 counts contempt of court, $22,000 bail.


Funeral services held for fallen U.S. Deputy Marshal Michael Andrew “Drew” Hanson

A funeral service was held in Alexandria for United States Deputy Marshal Michael Andrew “Drew” Hanson, who was killed in the line of duty on July 13, 2026, while serving and protecting the citizens of the nation.

The service took place at The Pentecostals of Alexandria Church, where law enforcement officers from across Louisiana and throughout the United States gathered to pay their final respects and honor Deputy Marshal Hanson’s life, service and commitment to duty.

Following the service, a funeral procession traveled through Alexandria to Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, passing beneath a large American flag suspended over Jackson Street in tribute to the fallen deputy marshal.

Deputy Marshal Hanson is survived by his wife, children, family, friends and co-workers.

Deputy Marshal Hanson’s service and sacrifice were remembered throughout the ceremony as members of the law enforcement community honored his legacy.


Remembering Kristin “Paige” Hurst Linn

Kristin “Paige” Hurst Linn was born on August 16, 1968, in Alexandria, Louisiana. She passed away on June 7, 2026 at the age of 57, after a brief illness. 

Paige grew up in Leesville, Louisiana and Oklahoma City, OK. She attended Oklahoma University, the University of Tennessee (Knoxville, TN), and graduated in 1996 from Northwestern State in Natchitoches, LA. Paige lived in Knoxville, Tennessee, teaching math for twelve years at Whittle Springs Middle School and four years at Powell Middle School.

Paige loved her University of Tennessee Vols and was a big fan of all Vol sports. She also loved her spring and summer trips to the Florida beaches and annual get-togethers with high school friends.

Paige is survived by her parents, Jim Hurst, Kingsport, TN and Carol Hurst, Leesville, LA; aunts and uncles, Susan and Richard Karamatic, Italy, TX; Debbie Sutton, Denver, CO; Bobby Sutton, Memphis, TN; Karen Ross, Denver, CO; and many cousins and friends. She is preceded in death by her grandparents, Robert H. Sutton and Katherine Sutton, Jonesboro, AR. Richard and Loretta Karamatic, Leesville, LA. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Kristin Paige Hurst Linn can be made to the Vanderbilt University Medical Center (Palliative Care Unit), Whittle Springs Middle School, or Powell Middle School.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at Chesapeake’s West 9630 Parkside Dr., Knoxville, TN 37922 from 1:30 to 4:00 pm.


Remembering Larry Eugene Grayson

Larry Eugene Grayson, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, businessman, and friend, passed away on July 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of the family he spent a lifetime cherishing. His legacy is one of hard work, unwavering devotion, and a life well lived.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, in the Chapel of Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, in Alexandria, with Brad Webb officiating. Burial will follow in Alexandria Memorial Gardens.

Visitation will be held at the funeral home, before the service, beginning at 9:00 a.m.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be Garrett Grayson, Chase Meshell, Landon Meshell, Ronnie Waters, Chad Puckett and Noah Grayson. Honorary pallbearers will be Ronald Roberts, Davie Gauthier and Jace Hebert.

Larry’s greatest accomplishment was never measured by the businesses he built or the miles he traveled, but by the family he loved so deeply. He was the steady foundation of his home, always placing those he loved above all else. His wisdom, strength, and gentle heart will continue to guide his family for generations to come.

As a young man, Larry met the love of his life, Mary Lou, while they were in high school. The two eloped in Woodville, Mississippi, beginning a marriage that would span an incredible 63 years. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, faith, and unwavering commitment. In 1962, they began raising the family that would become Larry’s greatest pride and joy.

Larry possessed an entrepreneurial spirit and an unmatched work ethic. In 1959, he purchased his very first big truck, unknowingly laying the foundation for a lifetime in the trucking industry. He later became the proud owner of Larry Grayson Trucking, LLC, building a respected business through determination, honesty, and countless hours of hard work. In 1984, he expanded his vision by establishing his gravel pit, another testament to his dedication and perseverance.

Although Larry worked tirelessly, he knew how to enjoy life. In 1979, he attended his first NASCAR race. He could often be found cheering for his beloved LSU Tigers and the New Orleans Saints. Whether watching sports, spending time with family, or sharing stories from years gone by, Larry had a way of making every gathering memorable. He was a gifted storyteller whose tales brought laughter, wisdom, and smiles to everyone fortunate enough to listen.

Larry will be remembered for his generous heart, quiet strength, infectious smile, and the unconditional love he poured into his family. His influence can be seen in the values he instilled, the business he built, and the countless lives he touched throughout the years.

He leaves behind his beloved children, Danny Eugene Grayson (Cherie) and Charlotte Lee Grayson Meshell (Thomas); his loving grandchildren, Davie Gauthier (Shana), Chase Meshell (Courtney), Landon Meshell (Dori), Nikki Hebert (Jace), Garrett Grayson (Alicia), Noah Grayson and Bela Grayson; 13 great-grandchildren; brother, Dennis Grayson; sister, Janelle Grayson, extended family and many dear friends who will forever treasure his memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Lottie Etta Keedwell Grayson; his wife, Mary Lou Grayson; and his brother, Harold “Sonny” Grayson

Though his seat at the table is now empty, his love remains woven into the hearts of all who knew him. His lessons, laughter, and stories will continue to be shared for years to come, ensuring that his legacy lives on.

The family would like to thank Selfless Measures for the love and care shown from the sitters Eva, Miss Lilly, Monique and Blue.

Remember, Pawpaw Loves You.


Word of the Day: Obdurate

Phonetic: /AHB-duh-rut/

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition

Obdurate is a formal word that means “resistant to persuasion.” It is usually used to describe someone who is not willing to change their methods or opinions, or something that is not easily altered.

Though obdurate problems loom, the organization under its new leadership is poised to make real and effective changes.



Notice of Death – July 19, 2026

Larry Eugene Grayson
January 6, 1938 – July 17, 2026
Service: Tuesday, July 21, 2026, 11am at Chapel of Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Glenda Lurline Jacobs
April 13, 1937 – July 16, 2026
Service: Monday, July 20, 2026, 11am at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Elizabeth Brook Richardson
April 6, 1964 – July 15, 2026
Service: Tuesday, July 21, 2026, 10am at Journey Church, Pineville.

Jennifer “Jenny” Morrow
May 6, 1977 – July 14, 2026
Service: Monday, July 20, 2026, 11am at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Pineville.

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

A’Layna Laiken Kali Duruisseau
October 22, 2003 — July 8, 2026
Service: Tuesday, July 21, 2026, 11am at St. Matthew’s Baptist Church, Boyce.

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.