The Life and Legacy of LeAnn “Pig” Dixon

LeAnn Dixon, affectionately known to family and friends as “Pig,” was born on June 23, 1979, in Pineville, Louisiana, to Rose Marie Dixon. On Saturday, September 12, 2026, LeAnn departed this life at her home in Lecompte, Louisiana, at the age of 47.

LeAnn was educated at Bunkie High School and later continued her education at Blue Cliff College, where she earned her certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Throughout her working years, she was employed in the restaurant industry at Lea’s in LeCompte, Louisiana as a waitress. Her caring nature and willingness to help others were evident not only in her work, but in the way she treated everyone she encountered.

To know LeAnn was to know a woman with a warm heart, a beautiful smile, and a joyful spirit. She was kind, helpful, and genuinely caring. She had a way of bringing happiness into a room and could easily be described as the life of the party-a big ball of joy. Her smile, laughter, and vibrant personality made her unforgettable to those who knew and loved her.

LeAnn enjoyed having a good time and making the most of life. One of her favorite pastimes was playing bingo, especially on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. She also enjoyed occasional trips to the casino and visiting Sammy’s Truck Stop. Whether she was spending time with family, enjoying the company of friends, or simply out having fun, LeAnn appreciated the moments that brought her joy.

She did not have just one favorite color-she loved them all, a fitting reflection of the colorful and lively personality she carried throughout her life.

LeAnn’s greatest treasures were her children and the family she loved dearly. She leaves to cherish her precious memories her three sons, Decorein Sears, Corey James Kimble, Jr., and Jordan Issac Dixon; her daughter, Ravenanna Deasia Marie Dixon; three siblings, Courtney Dixon, Jermaine Dixon, and Ladarran Dixon; her beloved godchild, Ky’Lin Blue; her cousins, the Blue family; and a host of other relatives, close friends, and loved ones whose lives were made brighter because she was a part of them.

Although LeAnn’s earthly journey has ended, the love, laughter, kindness, and happiness she shared will remain in the hearts of all who knew her. Those closest to her will remember not simply the name LeAnn Dixon, but the unforgettable woman they lovingly called “Pig”-always smiling, always caring, and always bringing joy wherever she went.

A memorial service date will be announced in the days to come.

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Phonetic: /ur·​bane/

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition

notably polite or polished in manner

an urbane diplomat

fashionable and somewhat formal

the hotel’s urbane sophistication

The puzzles are now found in the Central Louisiana Daily Brief.

Mamie Doris Ryland Falk
January 26, 1954 – September 13, 2026
Service: Friday, September 18, 2026, 10am at Belle Grande Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Alexandria.

Brenda Lincecum Simmons
August 23, 1949 – September 12, 2026
Service: Friday, September 18, 2026, 1pm at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball.

Alfonso Perez-Mendez
September 18, 1945 – September 11, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 1pm at St. Louis Catholic Church, Glenmora.

Thomas Roger Gibbs, Jr.
February 26, 1970 – September 10, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 26, 2026, 2pm at Mt. Triumph Baptist Church, Alexandria.

Shirlene Goodlow
February 29, 1968 – September 10, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 3pm at Citadel Church of God in Christ, Alexandria.

Rosa Lee Johnson Winn
February 23, 1940 – September 10, 2026
Service: Thursday, September 24, 2026, 11am at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses–Landmark, Alexandria.

Jimmy Ray “Coach” Robinson
December 28, 1953 – September 9, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 3pm at Second Evergreen Baptist Church, Alexandria.

Joseph Welch, Sr.
April 15, 1943 – September 8, 2026
Service: Friday, September 18, 2026, 11am at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Alexandria.

Rede “Reida” Mae Russell Casey
October 6, 1947 – September 6, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 11am at The Pentecostals, Alexandria.

Edward Mendel
September 29, 1930 – September 6, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 1pm at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball.

Anna Jones
April 13, 1948 – September 1, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 26, 2026, 10am at Mt. Hermon Baptist Church, Lena.

Ronnie George Shinhoster
August 21, 1960 – August 31, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 11am at Refuge Church-Apostolic Faith, Alexandria.

Virginia Alice “Ginger” Jones
April 14, 1963 – August 24, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 11am at Philadelphia Baptist Church, Alexandria.

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

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Natchitoches Christmas is pleased to announce that LSU Women’s Basketball Head Coach Kim Mulkey will serve as Celebrity Captain of the 2026 Natchitoches Christmas “Festival of Lights” Parade on Saturday, December 5, in downtown Natchitoches.

Mulkey will help lead the 1 p.m. parade as Natchitoches celebrates the 100th Natchitoches Christmas Festival, marking a century of one of Louisiana’s most beloved holiday traditions.

Her appearance comes during a special weekend for women’s basketball in Natchitoches. The LSU Tigers will face the Northwestern State Lady Demons on Sunday, December 6, at Prather Coliseum on the campus of Northwestern State University.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Coach Mulkey and the LSU Women’s Basketball team to Natchitoches during such a historic year for our Christmas Festival,” said Sandra Dickens, Natchitoches Christmas Board Chair. “When we learned LSU would be in Natchitoches for the game against Northwestern State, we knew this was a unique opportunity. Coach Mulkey is one of the most recognizable figures in Louisiana sports, and having her help lead our parade as we celebrate 100 years of Christmas makes an already special weekend even more memorable.”

Mulkey also shares a special connection with Natchitoches through the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame, where she was inducted in 1990 following her standout playing career at Louisiana Tech. The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame is housed at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum in downtown Natchitoches.

A native of Tickfaw, Louisiana, Mulkey has built one of the most accomplished careers in college basketball. She is the only person in college basketball history, men’s or women’s, to win national championships as a player, assistant coach and head coach. As a player at Louisiana Tech, Mulkey helped the Lady Techsters capture national championships in 1981 and 1982 and later helped the program win another national title as an assistant coach in 1988. As a head coach, she won three NCAA national championships at Baylor before returning to Louisiana to lead LSU, where she guided the Tigers to the program’s first NCAA Women’s Basketball National Championship in 2023.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead the historic Natchitoches Christmas ‘Festival of Lights’ parade as the state of Louisiana celebrates this great tradition for the 100th time,” Mulkey said. “I’m always looking to give back to the state I love whenever I can. The opportunity presented itself, and I accepted. I look forward to seeing everyone on December 5 and, once more, at Prather Coliseum on December 6. We are excited to make our time in Natchitoches a memorable one.”

The December 6 matchup will bring LSU Women’s Basketball to Northwestern State’s Prather Coliseum, adding another major event to Natchitoches’ centennial Christmas weekend. Natchitoches Christmas also extends its appreciation to Northwestern State Head Coach Alan Frey, who helped make Coach Mulkey’s participation possible by personally extending the invitation for her to serve as Celebrity Captain.

“Bringing an elite program here to play us is exciting enough, but having Coach Mulkey agree to be the Celebrity Captain in Saturday’s parade makes this an unforgettable weekend for Natchitoches basketball fans,” Frey said. “I want to thank Kim for saying yes to the ask and giving our community a great show on the parade route before our historic matchup on Sunday.”

The 2026 Natchitoches Christmas “Festival of Lights” Parade will begin at 1 p.m. Saturday, December 5, traveling from the Northwestern State University campus through the Natchitoches Historic District.

The parade is part of the 100th Natchitoches Christmas Festival, which will feature a full day of activities in downtown Natchitoches, including entertainment, arts and crafts, food vendors and the festival’s signature fireworks celebration over Cane River Lake.

For additional information about the 100th Natchitoches Christmas Festival, visit NatchitochesChristmas.com.

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By JIM BUTLER

The Diocese of Alexandria proposes to significantly alter its bankruptcy reorganization plan.

Awaiting court hearing, the outline includes revising the classes of allowable claims as well as reducing the amount in a trust fund to pay some of them, including alleged sexual abuse victims.

Facing a growing number of sexual abuse claims, the Diocese filed Chapter 11 last October.

It submitted a reorganization plan in June that included a trust fund in the range of $5 million for substantiated current or future claims relative to abuse.

The current Chapter 11 filing proposes a fund settlement payment contribution of $500,000, increased as necessary “to have such payment not less than liquidation value.”

Should the court find the amount required exceeds $1.5 million the Diocese reserves the option of withdrawing its plan.

The initial plan had general unsecured creditor claims and putative abuse claims in separate classes. They are now joined in Class 4 of four groupings.

Settlement of any such claims would be on a prorated share of the settlement trust payment, initially set $500,000.

The trust fund assets would consist of the settlement payment and any assigned insurance interest payments.

The other three claims classes – Southern Heritage Bank, Sabine State Bank, General Convenience, all secured – remain the same.

The voting deadline on the diocese’s plan, whatever form it may be, is currently November 10, with a confirmation hearing scheduled November 24.

In the face of abuse allegations the Diocese in 2018 undertook study dating to its creation in the 19th Century and developed a list of credibly accused clergy as well as undertaking extensive preventative steps going forward.

According to the Diocese, 158 claims were subsequently filed through the bankruptcy filing date. At least eight are believed duplicate. All are claims, not proof of claim.

More than 80% of the alleged actions occurred in the 1960s, 70s and 80s; five incidents are alleged since 2000.

According to the Chapter 11 paperwork, about half the total pertain to clergy employed or allegedly controlled at the time by the Diocese. About 50 involve parishes shifted from Alexandria to Shreveport in 1986.

And about 30 involve an alleged abuser neither employed or controlled by, but ordained in, the diocese.

He subsequently spent 30+ years as principal of a school of the Archdiocese of Chicago.

Alexandria Bishop Robert W. Marshall on Tuesday was appointed interim Apostolic Administrator of the Shreveport diocese.

He will administer its daily affairs while retaining Alexandria responsibilities until a successor to Robert W. Malone, who retired, is chosen.

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Rapides High School thanked the Lecompte Rotary Club for its generous donation to the school’s Robotics Team.

The school said the support helps provide students with opportunities to explore STEM, develop problem-solving skills and gain valuable hands-on experiences.

Rapides High School expressed gratitude to community partners who support its students and invest in their futures.

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Rapides Regional Medical Center Opens Dedicated EMS Lounge
Rapides Regional Medical Center

Rapides Regional Medical Center recently held a ribbon cutting for its new EMS Lounge, a dedicated space open to all Emergency Medical Service providers in the community. The lounge gives EMS providers a place to rest, recharge, and regroup between calls. Rapides Regional thanked EMS personnel for their daily service to the community.

Rapides Parish Police Jury Committees Meeting — October 5
Rapides Parish Police Jury

The Rapides Parish Police Jury will hold its regular committee meetings on Monday, October 5, beginning at 3 p.m. in the Meeting Room of the Police Jury Office, second floor of the Parish Courthouse, 701 Murray St., Alexandria. Eight committees will meet in sequence: Finance; Public Works, Watershed and Agricultural Affairs; Workforce Development and Grants; Tourism and Economic Planning and Development; Courthouse, Coliseum and Facilities; Parochial Board Liaison and Municipal Liaison; Personnel, Elections, Insurance and Legal; and Ambulance, Fire, Health and Homeland Security. The agenda will be posted at 4 p.m. on Thursday, October 1, on the Meeting Room door. The meeting will be streamed live at rppj.com and on YouTube at @rppj-la.

Rapides Parish Police Jury Regular Meeting — October 12
Rapides Parish Police Jury

The Rapides Parish Police Jury will hold its regular monthly meeting on Monday, October 12, at 3 p.m. in the Meeting Room, Police Jury Office, second floor of the Parish Courthouse, 701 Murray St., Alexandria. The agenda will be posted at 4 p.m. on Thursday, October 8, on the Meeting Room door. The meeting will be streamed live at rppj.com and on YouTube at @rppj-la.

LSUA Lecture: The Folklore of Sports — September 25
Louisiana State University of Alexandria

LSUA will host a free public lecture on Friday, September 25, from 12:15 to 1 p.m. titled “The Lore Behind the Score: Exploring the Folklore of Sports.” Dr. Emily Bryant, director of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum, will explore how folklore appears in sports — from game-day traditions and superstitions to fan memorabilia and team legends. Bryant holds a Ph.D. in folklore from Indiana University. Visitors are welcome to bring their lunch.

National Hunting and Fishing Day at LDWF Woodworth — September 26
Rapides Regional Medical Center, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries

Rapides Regional Medical Center is again co-sponsoring Louisiana’s National Hunting and Fishing Day on Friday, September 26, from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the LDWF Outdoor Education Center in Woodworth on Robinson Bridge Road. RRMC personnel will teach ATV safety and Stop the Bleed training. Admission is free. For more information, visit wlf.la.gov/page/nhfd.

The Pineville Lions Club held a meeting where Vice President and President-Elect Ursula Dewalt led the meeting and introduced Luis Cintron with the Family Justice Center of Central Louisiana.

Cintron informed the group about the services the organization provides for people in need.

The club also gathered toys, supplies and other goods for its District 8-I service project benefiting St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in Shreveport.

The club said it is a privilege and joy to work alongside people who serve the community.

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Week 3 of the Rapides Parish Journal’s annual High School Football Pick ’Em contest is underway, giving local fans another chance to test their gridiron knowledge and win cash.

Each week, the contest features 10 selected matchups highlighting Rapides Parish high schools and marquee regional games. The second round of competition concludes Friday, Sept. 18, so make your selections before kickoff to get in the game.

Each weekly winner will take home $100 and be featured with a photo in the Journal.

Participants can submit their picks online through the RPJ platform throughout the season to see who truly reigns as the top football prognosticator in Rapides Parish.

Contest Rules & Details

• Anyone is eligible to participate for free, and each week’s winning participant will win a $100 prize. Each week, the winner will be the participant with the best record out of 10 selected high school football games. Ties will be broken by two separate tiebreakers consisting of guessing the total points scored in two designated weekly contests. The picker with the closest score, without going over, is the winner. All decisions by Management/RPJ are final. The contest can be modified and/or cancelled without notice to the public.
  
  The only persons not eligible to participate are the publisher, the publisher’s immediate family, and regular content contributors to the Journal as determined by Management/RPJ.
  
• There is no entry fee. All contest decisions by Journal management are final. Weekly winners will be notified on Mondays and must agree to have their photo published in the Journal.
  
• Every participant receives a free subscription to the Journal, delivered directly to their inbox daily at 6:55 a.m.

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JOURNAL SPORTS

Alexandria Senior High held serve in the Louisiana Sports Writers Association Class 5A top 10 poll for Week 3 of the high school football season.

The Trojans are still the only Rapides Parish school receiving votes again this week. After opening with a 44-20 victory at home over Bryant (Ark.), ASH hammered Union Parish in Farmerville 52-7 last Friday.

The next two weeks, at least, won’t be as easy.

This Friday, ASH hosts Lafayette Christian Academy (2-0), ranked fifth in Class AA. In two weeks, the Trojans visit former District 2-5A foe Neville, which has dropped to Class 4A and is ranked fourth in that classification.

Only 14 of the 50 ranked teams in this week’s top 10 polls are from the 318 area code. Nearby Jena jumped from fifth to third in the 3A poll after knocking off reigning state champion Sterlington in a rematch of last December’s state finals. Marksville also cracked the 3A Top 10 at No. 9 this week.

Eleven sports media members in the LSWA are polled weekly to compile the rankings.

Class 5A

School (1^st place votes), record, poll points, last week’s ranking

1.Ruston (9), 2-0, 130,1

2. Karr (2), 2-0, 123, 2

3. Alexandria Senior High, 2-0, 102, 3

4. St. Augustine, 2-0, 99, 4

5. Catholic-Baton Rouge, 1-1, 83, 5

6. John Curtis, 1-1, 78, 6

7. Archbishop Rummel, 2-0, 70, 7

8. Acadiana, 2-0, 57, 8

9. Brother Martin, 2-0,  40, 9

10. Ouachita, 2-0, 20, NR

Others receiving votes: West Monroe 19, Jesuit 9, Mandeville 9, Central 8, Barbe 4, St. Thomas More 2, Destrehan 1, Southside 1, Thibodaux 1. 

Class 4A

1. Westgate (8), 2-0, 128, 2

2. Archbishop Shaw (1), 2-0, 118, 2

3. North DeSoto (1), 2-0, 104, 3

4. Neville (1), 1-1, 104, 4

5. Lake Charles Prep, 2-0, 88, 6

6. Madison Prep, 1-1, 78, 7

7. Franklin Parish, 1-1, 54, 8

8. Cecilia, 2-0, 51, 9

9. Plaquemine, 1-1, 49, 5

10. Salmen, 1-1,  36,  Not rated

Others receiving votes:  Lafayette Renaissance 20, John F. Kennedy 15, E.D. White 6, Belle Chasse 3, Teurlings Catholic 3, Carencro 1.

Class 3A

1. St. Charles (11),2-0, 136, 1

2. St. James, 2-0, 114, T3

3. Jena, 2-0, 110, 5

4. Sterlington, 1-1, 95, 2

5. Iowa, 1-1, 70, 9

6. University, 0-2, 67, T3

7. Jewel Sumner,1-1, 63, 6

8. Loyola, 1-1, 53 , 8

9. Marksville, 2-0, 49, NR

10. Vandebilt Catholic, 1-1, 41, 7

Others receiving votes: Iota 19, Northwest 4, Erath 4, De La Salle 3, Carroll 1, Eunice 1.

Class 2A

1, Calvary Baptist (9), 2-0, 129, 2

2, Dunham (2), 1-1, 119, 1

3. Notre Dame, 2-0, 111, 4

4. Mangham, 1-1,  95, 6

5. Lafayette Christian Academy, 2-0, 81, 6

6. Oak Grove, 1-1, 79, 3

7. Amite, 2-0, 76, 7

8. Kinder, 1-1, 53, 5

9. Catholic-New Iberia, 1-1, 36

10. Mansfield, 2-0, 29, NR

Others receiving votes: Newman 25, Loreauville 19, West St. Mary 6, Covenant Christian 3, Country Day 2, Union Parish 2.

Class 1A

1. Ouachita Christian (8),2-0, 129, 1

2. Riverside Academy (3), 2-0, 123, 2

3. Ascension Catholic, 2-0, 109, 3

4. Jeanerette, 2-0, 96, 4

5. Haynesville,  1-1, 83, 5

6. Logansport, 2-0, 69, 6

7. Southern Lab, 2-0, 66, 7

8. Kentwood, 2-0, 59, 8

9. Westminster-Lafayette, 2-0, 45, 9

10. South Plaquemines, 1-1, 25, NR

Others receiving votes: Cedar Creek 21, East Feliciana 12, Lincoln Prep 11, St. Edmund 6, Westminster-Opelousas 5.

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Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

Sept. 16

Michael Monty Craig-Olano, 22, Pineville – aggravated assault domestic abuse, two counts violation of protective orders, domestic abuse battery strangulation, no bail data.

Sept. 15

Calvin Alston, 39, Alexandria – three counts possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, improper lane usage, $8,600 bail;

Alexis Jonae Carter, 28, Alexandria – theft, simple burglary, criminal damage to property, probation violation, $10,000 bail;

Jordan Curtis George, 17, Alexandria – second degree battery, $10,000 bail;

Misti M. Hudgens, 51, Pineville – domestic abuse battery, aggravated assault domestic abuse, disturbing the peace, $500 bail;

Michael Shane Tarver, 46, Elizabeth – aggravated second degree battery, $10,000 bail;

Roderick Deon Turner, 34, Alexandria – illegal carry firearm with drugs, two counts possession of firearm by convicted felon, carrying a firearm on school property, six counts producing manufacturing distributing CDS, paraphernalia, two counts resisting an officer, resisting a police officer with force or violence, possession of CDS in a school zone, $241,500 bail.

Sept. 14

Christopher Reid Carlton, 42, Colfax – possession of CDS, improper turn, $1,600 bail;

Jason C.Delhommer, 40, Jonesville – Louisiana fugitive, contempt of court, $2,500 bail;

Sam Karl Gibson, 36, Alexandria – three counts contempt of court, $51,500 bail;

James Damon Henry, 46, Alexandria – possession of fentanyl, producing manufacturing distributing CDS, possession of drug paraphernalia, headlamps required on motor vehicles, obstruction of justice, parole violations, $8,100 bail;

Jamoine Akeem Jefferson, 39, Pineville – possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, remaining on premises, parole violations, two counts contempt of court, $6,250 bail;

Aaron John Kissee, 34, Pineville – domestic abuse battery strangulation, $25,000 bail;

Jonas Torez Smith, 30, Alexandria – theft, three counts contempt of court, $65,000 bail;

Colby Daniel Vance II, 35, Ball – three counts contempt of court, $300,000 bail.

Sept. 13

Lisa Marie Fisher, 55, Alexandria – theft, false communication to cause emergency response, $2,000 bail;

Peter Bryant Lewis, 19, Alexandria – OWI underage, tail lamps red light, improper window tint, $1.200 bail;

Aaron Kade Poche, 21, Robeline – hit and run driving, domestic abuse battery, careless operation of a vehicle, $2,100 bail;

Ohaji Walls, 23, Boyce – domestic abuse battery strangulation, $5,000 bail;

Ashley Nicole Young, 43, Pineville – Louisiana fugitive, probation violation, simple escape, contempt of court, $10,000 bail.

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Cynthia Ann Tullos, 66, a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2026, in Alexandria, surrounded by her loving family. Born on January 27, 1960, in Fort Worth, Texas, Cynthia was the cherished daughter of Joseph and Mildred Martin Tullos, who preceded her in death. She was also predeceased by her beloved daughter, Bridget Book, and her sister, Peggy Tullos.

Cynthia was one of those rare people whose warmth could be felt almost immediately. She was funny, affectionate, thoughtful, extraordinarily generous, and deeply caring. She never had much materially, but somehow always found something to give. If someone needed help, she wanted to help them-sometimes so generously that her daughters had to intervene and remind her that she couldn’t give everything away. That was simply who she was. She had a wonderful wit and an unmistakable laugh. She loved people fiercely and showed it freely. She hugged, she laughed, she fed you, and she made you feel loved. She was also wonderfully stubborn-perhaps one of the most stubborn people her family ever knew-and those who loved her wouldn’t have had her any other way.

Cynthia had a wild, adventurous, almost childlike spirit. She was happiest outdoors, with her hands in the dirt or exploring somewhere new. She gardened, wandered through the woods, picked up snakes, caught lizards and frogs, fished and crabbed, and was never particularly interested in staying clean or indoors. She could stick anything in the ground, and it was going to grow. She would stop in the middle of the road to help a turtle cross. There was always an adventure to be found. Her family still laughs about the those days.

South Louisiana held a particularly special place in her heart. She loved the food, the people and the culture. She was an incredible Cajun cook who rarely needed a recipe. She loved stopping along the road for an ice chest full of fresh shrimp, going fishing on the bayou, to the old plantations and seeing the beautiful oak trees. She loved bringing everyone together around food. She also gave her daughters, Elizabeth and Bridget, a lifelong love of New Orleans. She took them to the zoo and aquarium, wandered through shops and restaurants with them, brought them to museums and galleries, and took them to see the Christmas lights in City Park. She didn’t simply take her girls places-she taught them to notice things. Art, food, beautiful spaces, interesting people, different cultures and the joy of discovering somewhere new. She encouraged both of her daughters to pursue their creativity and supported them as they went on to study the arts.

Her sense of adventure eventually took her much farther from home. When Elizabeth graduated from high school, Cynthia and Elizabeth moved to Malaysia with Elizabeth’s father. Mother and daughter suddenly found themselves driving on the opposite side of the road without speaking a word of Malay-and Cynthia embraced it. They explored markets, caves and rainforests, took road trips to tea plantations and pottery shops, and collected the kinds of stories that would be retold for the rest of their lives. Cynthia loved that chapter of her life and carried her love of travel with her, later spending time with family in China, Hong Kong, California, Seattle and wherever else life took her. She loved remembering where she came from, too. She talked about playing basketball when she was young, the Mustang she adored, old friends and stories from growing up. She loved her siblings deeply and could happily spend hours reminiscing about the people and adventures that shaped her.

But there was no greater joy in Cynthia’s life than her grandson, Owen. To Owen, she was Grammie-and Grammie and Owen were best friends. They could video chat for hours. When they were together, she became every bit as much a child as he was. They played all day, laughed at their own jokes, and created a little world that belonged to the two of them. During the four months she recently spent living with Elizabeth’s family, Cynthia looked forward every morning to hearing the pitter-patter of Owen’s feet. And one of Owen’s first questions of the day was inevitably, “Can I go wake Grammie up?” When they were apart, Cynthia watched his videos and looked through his pictures over and over again. Anyone who spoke with her recently knew about Owen, because sooner or later-usually sooner-Grammie was going to tell you about him. The love between them was extraordinary, completely uncomplicated, and pure joy. Her family will make sure Owen grows up knowing just how completely his Grammie adored him.

Cynthia’s later years were not easy. After suffering a traumatic brain injury in a serious automobile accident in 2005, she faced years of difficult health problems. She could be terribly hard on herself, but she was also incredibly tough. Again and again, she worked to get better. She endured more than most people knew and fought extraordinarily hard. Only a few months before Cynthia’s death, the family suffered the devastating loss of her daughter, Bridget-her beloved “BB.” It was a grief beyond words. Cynthia missed her desperately. There is comfort now in imagining that after such a long fight, Mama is finally at peace with her girl. For those who loved her, however, there will always be an empty place where her laughter should be.

Cynthia leaves behind so much more than can ever fit into an obituary: gardens and recipes that were never written down, ridiculous stories and great adventures, meals shared around a table, New Orleans charm, road trips through Malaysia, muddy hands, old friends, laughter, photographs, and a little boy who knew without question that his Grammie thought he hung the moon. She was precious. She was funny. She was generous beyond reason. She was stubborn and adventurous and affectionate and completely herself. She was Mama, Sister, Cyn Cyn.. She was Grammie. And she was so very loved.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Elizabeth McKim, and her husband, Daniel, as well as her cherished grandson, Owen McKim, who brought immense joy to her life. Cynthia’s memory will also be cherished by her brother, Randy Tullos and his wife Janne, her sisters, Cathy Tullos, and Kim Swarts and her husband Scott. She leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives who will forever hold her in their hearts.

A celebration of Cynthia’s life will take place on Friday, September 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM at New Life Pentecostal Church in Manifest with Rev. David Poole and Alison Parker officiating. Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2026 from 6:00 PM until 9:00 PM at New Life Pentecostal Church in Manifest. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to gather and honor the remarkable life of a woman who meant so much to so many.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Adam Book, Gerald Tullos, Scott Swarts, Scottie Swarts, Little Joe Tullos, and Timbo Patten.

Cynthia Ann Tullos will be dearly missed, yet her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were touched by her love and grace. May she rest in peace, reunited with her beloved family in eternal serenity.

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Charles “Rick” Guimaraes, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and distinguished veteran, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2026, in the cherished company of loved ones, leaving a remarkable legacy of dedication to family, country, and community. He was 80 years of age at the time of his passing.

Born on August 24, 1946, in San Antonio, Texas, Rick was the son of Dorman Norris and Mary Lambert Pries. His early years were marked by a strong sense of duty and commitment, qualities that would define his entire life. Rick pursued his education with determination, earning a bachelor’s degree from Pepperdine University followed by a master’s degree from McNeese State University.

Rick served his country with honor and valor as a member of the United States Navy for 18 years. He held the rank of Operations Specialist First Class (OS1) and served during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Hoel and USS Cochrane. His dedication to his fellow service members continued beyond active duty, as he became a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and played an influential role in AmVets. Rick served as Past National Commander of AmVets, as well as Past Local Commander of Post 7 and Post 1776 in Alexandria.

In his professional life, Rick was a successful entrepreneur, founding Norstar Computer Company in Alexandria. His hard work and innovative spirit made a significant impact on the local business community.

Rick’s life was richly blessed by his 26-year marriage to Mary Guimaraes, who remained by his side through life’s many adventures and challenges. Together, they built a loving family, and Charles found immense joy in the company of his children: his surviving son, Scott Guimaraes and his wife Denise. His grandchildren-Brittney, Travis, Breanna, William, Chase, and Sierra Guimaraes-were a constant source of pride and happiness, as were his great-grandchildren, Ben Andrews, Rose Guimaraes, Eli Riggs, and Andy Riggs.

A devoted family man, Rick loved spending time outdoors, tending to his goats, horses, and cows, and sharing his passion for fishing and hunting with those he loved. His patriotism was unwavering, and he instilled in his family a deep respect for their heritage and country.

Rick was a cherished member of the Gorum Baptist Church, where his faith and fellowship touched many lives. He was predeceased by his parents, his sons Sam and Steven Guimaraes, his grandson Sam Guimaraes, and his brothers Ben and Lucky Norris, whose memories he carried with him always.

Rick’s life was a testament to the power of love, service, and community. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the enduring memories of his generous spirit. May he rest in eternal peace.

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Philip W. Beard
April 8, 1941 – September 15, 2026
Service: Thursday, September 17, 2026, 11am at Kramer & Son Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Mamie Doris Ryland Falk
January 26, 1954 – September 13, 2026
Service: Friday, September 18, 2026, 10am at Belle Grande Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Alexandria.

Lee Gregory Jeansonne
June 6, 1936 – September 13, 2026
Service: Thursday, September 17, 2026, 11:30am at St. Rita Catholic Church, Alexandria.

Brenda Lincecum Simmons
August 23, 1949 – September 12, 2026
Service: Friday, September 18, 2026, 1pm at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball.

Alfonso Perez-Mendez
September 18, 1945 – September 11, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 1pm at St. Louis Catholic Church, Glenmora.

Thomas Roger Gibbs, Jr.
February 26, 1970 – September 10, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 26, 2026, 2pm at Mt. Triumph Baptist Church, Alexandria.

Shirlene Goodlow
February 29, 1968 – September 10, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 3pm at Citadel Church of God in Christ, Alexandria.

Rosa Lee Johnson Winn
February 23, 1940 – September 10, 2026
Service: Thursday, September 24, 2026, 11am at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses–Landmark, Alexandria.

Jimmy Ray “Coach” Robinson
December 28, 1953 – September 9, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 3pm at Second Evergreen Baptist Church, Alexandria.

Joseph Welch, Sr.
April 15, 1943 – September 8, 2026
Service: Friday, September 18, 2026, 11am at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Alexandria.

Rede “Reida” Mae Russell Casey
October 6, 1947 – September 6, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 11am at The Pentecostals, Alexandria.

Edward Mendel
September 29, 1930 – September 6, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 1pm at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball.

Barbara Jean Driessen
August 20, 1941 – September 3, 2026
Service: Thursday, September 17, 2026, 10am at Pineville First United Methodist Church, Pineville.

Anna Jones
April 13, 1948 – September 1, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 26, 2026, 10am at Mt. Hermon Baptist Church, Lena.

Ronnie George Shinhoster
August 21, 1960 – August 31, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 11am at Refuge Church-Apostolic Faith, Alexandria.

Virginia Alice “Ginger” Jones
April 14, 1963 – August 24, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 11am at Philadelphia Baptist Church, Alexandria.

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

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By JIM BUTLER

Malcolm Larvadain, perhaps recognizing an election issue when it arises, wants to change Alexandria City Council rules for public comment.

His plan comes on the heels of recent complaints from citizens wanting to speak about things not on the council’s posted agenda.

Larvadain, District 1 councilman running for mayor, proposes letting some get matters off their chests at each meeting.

Currently, interested parties can signup for three minutes addressing an agenda item, and nothing else, though keeping some who relish the sound of their voice on subject has become like herding cats.

Larvadain would add a minimum half hour at the end of each every-other-week meeting for citizen firing at-will in three-minute bursts. Barring extended time, that would allow up to 10 speakers.

In correspondence to Council President Cynthia Perry, copied to all council members, Larvadain asks the proposed change be added to next Tuesday’s agenda.

Issues raised during the open comment period would be “logged, referred and answered in writing” within 30 days.

Presumably the referral would be to the particular area involved via Mayor Jacques Roy’s office, that being where the rubber hits the road, and where Larvadain hopes to sit come December.

Larvadain says his proposal provides a regular opportunity for residents to address matters of public interest.

State law requires an opportunity for public speaking at agency meetings.

Some limit that to matters on the agenda, some to only matters on the agenda that are to be voted on, some only to a prescribed time limit, some no restrictions.

The Council’s current rules have been in place since mayhem-driven changes were adopted in mid-2024.

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By JIM BUTLER

Notes from recently posted Legislative Audit reports:

Sewerage District 1

Revenue for the audit year was $1.25 million, all in service charges to 1,724 customers.

Expenses totaled $449,000, with utilities cost at $226,000, contract labor $128,000 and payroll $12,500.

Net position grew to $4.4 million, about $95,000 restricted.

Sewerage District 2

Enterprise Fund revenues were $3.76 million, about $2.98 million of that from a grant. Operating revenue from 1,047 customers was $781,000.

Expenses totaled $666,000. Operating costs included $154,000 contract labor and $192,000 repairs and maintenance. Payroll expense was $17,400.

Net position increased to $5.65 million, about $457,000 unrestricted.

Drainage District 1

Revenues totaled $449,000 with property tax contributing $378,000.

Expenses were $119,000 with repairs and maintenance requiring $48,000 and professional and contract services $35,000. Personnel expense was $22,000.

Net position rose to $1.86 million, all unrestricted.

Drainage District 2

Revenue was $1.26 million, 80 percent of that from property tax.

Expenses totaled $881,000, almost half in capital spending. Personnel cost was $192,000.

Net position increased to $3.1 million, $2.3 million of that unrestricted.

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Noah Does It LLC Heating & Cooling Grand Opening — Today
Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce

Noah Does It LLC Heating & Cooling holds its grand opening ribbon cutting today, Wednesday, September 16, at 10 a.m. at 1118 Third St. in Alexandria. The event is hosted by the Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce and is open to the public.

Leglue Nissan Grand Re-Opening Ribbon Cutting — Tomorrow
Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce

Leglue Nissan celebrates its grand re-opening with a ribbon cutting on Thursday, September 17, at 9 a.m. at 6400 Coliseum Blvd. in Alexandria. The event is hosted by the Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce and is open to the public.

LSUA Lecture: The Folklore of Sports — September 25
Louisiana State University of Alexandria

LSUA will host a free public lecture on Friday, September 25, from 12:15 to 1 p.m. titled “The Lore Behind the Score: Exploring the Folklore of Sports.” Dr. Emily Bryant, director of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum, will explore how folklore appears in sports — from game-day traditions and superstitions to fan memorabilia and team legends. Bryant holds a Ph.D. in folklore from Indiana University. Visitors are welcome to bring their lunch.

National Hunting and Fishing Day at LDWF Woodworth — September 26
Rapides Regional Medical Center, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries

Rapides Regional Medical Center is again co-sponsoring Louisiana’s National Hunting and Fishing Day on Friday, September 26, from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the LDWF Outdoor Education Center in Woodworth on Robinson Bridge Road. RRMC personnel will teach ATV safety and Stop the Bleed training. Admission is free. For more information, visit wlf.la.gov/page/nhfd.

Hot and mostly clear conditions are expected across Rapides Parish through the weekend, with highs in the mid 90s and lows generally in the upper 60s to lower 70s.

Wednesday will be sunny, with highs in the mid 90s and east winds of 5 to 10 mph. Wednesday night will be partly cloudy in the evening before becoming mostly clear, with lows in the lower 70s. Southeast winds around 5 mph in the evening will become light and variable.

Thursday will be sunny, with highs in the mid 90s and east winds of 5 to 10 mph. Thursday night through Friday night will be clear, with lows in the upper 60s and highs in the mid 90s.

Saturday through Sunday will be mostly clear, with highs in the mid 90s and lows in the lower 70s. Sunday night will be partly cloudy, with lows in the lower 70s.

Monday will be mostly sunny with a chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs will be in the mid 90s, with a 40 percent chance of rain.

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