Alexandria Senior High and Tioga High School battled neck and neck for most of the 2025 football season to see who would claim the Golden Boot award for raising the most money through Rapides Cancer Center’s Kick Cancer program.

The program involves Rapides Cancer Center partnering with Rapides Parish’s eight football-playing high schools to raise money for the American Cancer Society, as well as each program, through every successful field goal ($20 each) and Point After Try ($10) during the season and playoffs.

The two schools entered the playoffs tied, but ASH wound up prevailing in the closest finish in Kick Cancer’s four-year history, edging Tioga with $770 to Tioga’s $690. ASH connected on 57 PATs and 10 field goals.

“We are honored to earn this award again,” said ASH football coach Thomas Bachman. “We place an emphasis on winning Kick Cancer because it not only means we had success on the field, but it also means we are helping make a difference off the field in the fight against cancer.”

This is the fourth straight season ASH has claimed the Golden Boot. Combined, Rapides Parish schools raised a record $4,460 for the American Cancer Society during the 2025 season. Overall, more than $17,000 has been raised for the ACS since Kick Cancer began.

“We are deeply grateful for the continued support of Rapides Regional Medical Center,” said Kristin Franks, senior development manager for American Cancer Society. “The American Cancer Society’s mission to end cancer as we know it for everyone relies on communities coming together to raise awareness and critical funds for research, advocacy, and patient support services. With the generosity of our sponsors and our community, we’re making meaningful impact for Louisiana cancer patients.”

“We are continually amazed that our local schools raise the bar each football season for the amount of money we are able to raise for the American Cancer Society,” said Charla H. Ducote, Vice President of Public Relations, Marketing and Business Development at Rapides Regional Medical Center. “We congratulate Alexandria Senior High on a great season, as well as Tioga for pushing the Trojans. We continue to look forward to the day we can truly kick cancer once and for all.”

The six other schools in the parish – Bolton, Buckeye, Holy Savior Menard, Northwood, Peabody and Pineville – are receiving a minimum donation of $500, with an equal donation made on their behalf to ACS.

Explore Alexandria/Pineville was recognized by the Louisiana Travel Association at its annual meeting on Jan. 22 with a Louey Award for Tourism Campaign of the Year under $29,000 for its Community Heart Project.

The Community Heart Project focuses on beautifying and inspiring Central Louisiana by engaging community members in the creation of heart-shaped sculptures displayed throughout the region. The initiative highlights local culture and heritage while transforming public spaces into shared expressions of art and community pride.

Officials with Explore Alexandria/Pineville said the project reflects the organization’s mission to foster collaboration and creativity while leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. The award recognizes innovative and impactful tourism campaigns that strengthen community identity and encourage engagement.

The Louisiana Travel Association’s Louey Awards honor excellence in tourism marketing and promotion across the state.

Marguerite Rose Felton McGraw passed away on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at the age of 86.

Born in Dallas, Texas in 1939 to Frank Douglas Felton, Sr. and Elizabeth Marie Kuhnell Felton, Marguerite spent her early years in East Texas where her father worked in the oil industry. The family moved to southeast Louisiana when her father’s job required a transfer. Marguerite graduated from Chalmette High School in 1957 and subsequently attended the University of Southwestern Louisiana in Lafayette, Louisiana until her marriage to Richard Glen McGraw in 1959. Upon their marriage and Richard’s graduation from USL, she and Richard moved to the family farm in Lecompte, Louisiana. This began a new adventure for Marguerite as she learned how to be a farmer’s wife. She and Richard worked hard and raised their five children to love and appreciate farm life.

Marguerite later returned to college and completed her bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University in May 1987 at the age of 48. She then began working as a case manager in the social work industry helping children, adolescents and the elderly who needed an advocate and continued in this profession until her retirement.

Marguerite and Richard were members of Calvary Baptist Church in Alexandria for over 40 years where they met and made many friends and delighted in their travel escapades with their Senior Adult Sunday School classmates.

Over the years, Marguerite enjoyed and became skilled at sewing, crafts, and cake decorating. She also enjoyed designing and making quilts and gifted many to family and friends.

She is predeceased by her parents, Frank D. Felton, Sr. and Elizabeth Kuhnell Felton; brother, Frank D. Felton, Jr., and her husband of 56 years, Richard Glen McGraw.

She is survived by her daughters; Lisa McGraw Baronet (Rod), Katherine McGraw Kretzsinger, Julie McGraw Dauzat (Randy), Glenda McGraw Regnart (Jeff) and her son, Christopher Glen McGraw (Denise). She is also survived by twelve grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, as well as her nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Debra Bryant and her staff at Unlimited Senior Care as well as the staff at Regency House and Guardian Hospice for their kindness and care.

A private remembrance will be held at a later date by the family.

To extend online notes of condolence to the McGraw family, please visit http://www.KramerFunerals.com.

A funeral service for Francis Marie Curtis will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at Jeane’s Funeral Service in Leesville with Reverend John Lewing officiating. A visitation will be held on Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. until the time of service.

Francis was born February 15, 1947, in Many, Louisiana and passed away January 21, 2026, in Alexandria, Louisiana at the age of 78. She lived in Louisiana all of her life mostly in the Hornbeck area but also in Keithville. She worked for a while in role play at Fort Polk and then was the owner of Crinnon’s Corner Restaurant in Hornbeck. Francis enjoyed shopping and tending to her flowers and being outdoors fishing or camping.

Francis was preceded in death by her parents, Jack Robert Spears and Mary Alice Gordon Spears; grandson, Justin Brooks; and sister, Barbara Spears.

Those left to cherish her memory are her son, Robert Brooks of Hornbeck, LA; daughter, Barbara Davis of Hornbeck, LA; grandchildren, Haley Brooks, Austin Brooks, Brooks Bridges (Brandy), and Jacklyn Thompson (D.J.); great-grandchildren, Carter, Averi, John Austin Jr., Braylon, Dawson, Presley, Elisha, Justlynn, Ezekiel, and Roman; brother, Jack Robert Spears Jr. (Kathy) of Dubach, LA; sisters, Charlotte McCain (Danny Patterson) of Keithville, LA and Patricia Johnson of Catawba, SC; and extended family members and friends.

A significant shift in weather conditions is expected across Rapides Parish over the coming days, with a Winter Storm Watch in effect from Saturday afternoon through Sunday afternoon as freezing rain, icy roads and dangerously cold temperatures move into the area.

Cloudy skies will dominate the remainder of the workweek, with mild temperatures on Thursday and Friday before a sharp drop late Friday night. Thursday is expected to be mostly cloudy with a slight chance of afternoon showers and highs in the mid-60s. Rain chances increase Thursday night into Friday, with temperatures cooling to around 60 degrees during the day Friday.

Conditions are forecast to deteriorate rapidly Friday night as much colder air moves in. Rain showers are expected to become more widespread after midnight, with lows falling into the mid-30s. Northeast winds will strengthen, with gusts up to 25 mph, setting the stage for hazardous weather through the weekend.

Saturday is expected to bring steady rain and much colder conditions, with temperatures holding in the upper 30s throughout the day. Rain is forecast to continue into Saturday night, transitioning to freezing rain as temperatures fall into the lower 20s. Ice accumulation between one-tenth and four-tenths of an inch is possible, which could lead to slick roads, especially on bridges and overpasses.

Freezing rain is expected to continue into Sunday morning, with a mix of freezing rain and rain showers possible later in the day. Highs on Sunday are expected to remain in the lower 30s. Cold conditions will persist Sunday night, with overnight lows between 15 and 20 degrees.

The cold snap will continue into early next week, with highs only in the mid-30s Monday and overnight lows dropping into the teens. Temperatures will gradually moderate by midweek, with highs reaching the upper 40s by Wednesday.

In addition to the Winter Storm Watch, a cold weather advisory is in effect from 6 p.m. Saturday through noon Sunday due to dangerously low wind chills, which could dip as low as 12 degrees. These conditions increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia with prolonged exposure.

Residents are urged to delay travel during the weekend if possible. Those who must travel should use extreme caution, allow extra time, and remain alert for sudden changes in road conditions. Officials also advise ensuring vehicles are winterized, checking on elderly neighbors and family members, bringing pets indoors, and using space heaters safely.

Weather conditions will continue to be monitored as the weekend approaches, and additional advisories or warnings may be issued as confidence in the forecast increases.

PERSPECTIVE/By State Representative Charles Owen

Being the target of false accusations and outright lies is unfortunately part of public life. As a rule, I don’t respond to lies, but a recent editorial here contained accusations so demonstrably false I must correct the record, out of principle. 

People who know me and constituents I represent in Vernon and Beauregard wouldn’t believe these claims any more than they’d believe I’d root for the Dallas Cowboys or against my Wampus Cats.

First, a correction: There is no legislator named “Owens.” My last name has four letters. No “s,” please.

Mark Guillory accused me and colleagues Reps. Brett Geymann and Mike Johnson of being “environmental radicals.” That’s laughable and bizarre. Since taking office in 2020, I’ve cast thousands of votes, always striving to do my best. I own my mistakes.

In 2020 in the height of COVID shutdown damage, I was misled into supporting Senate Bill 353, which I was told would help the oil and gas industry recover. The full implications became clear later, and I’ve been working ever since to undo the damage and roll back the framework that enabled carbon sequestration policies. Guillory claims the 2020 bill is the sole cause of today’s issues. That’s simply not true. The foundation was laid much earlier—in laws from 1981, 2009, and 2014.

In 2025 my colleagues and I worked to deliver a major blow to the green agenda. Through SB244, Rep. Geymann amended law to remove language in state law identifying greenhouse gases as a threat to Louisiana. This is important because of the way our laws and courts operate.  He identified another vulnerability and, with majority support ensured captured carbon is treated in court like oil and gas—requiring companies to prove a public good to use eminent domain. They can’t, industry knows it.  

It wasn’t a complete victory, but it was a strong beachhead for future fights this coming session.

In 2024, I authored legislation to eliminate electric vehicles from the state fleet. The bill was killed by crony capitalists, but my position was clear: current EVs for first responders or police are disastrous.  In 2021 and 2022, I voted to end tax credits for solar companies, restrict solar expansion, and limit Red Chinese involvement in Louisiana solar projects. I’ve fought against ESG in our state and will continue until it’s eradicated.   

Since 2023, I’ve stood firmly against carbon sequestration: standing for Lake Maurepas, opposing eminent domain expansions for sequestration, and authoring HB4 in 2025 to give parishes opt-in/opt-out authority over carbon wells. More bills are coming this session, including ending decades-old expropriation authority for foreign entities.

Guillory is free to criticize me but calling me an environmental radical is like saying I supported vaccine mandates or John Bel Edwards—simply not true. He has knowingly said many wrong things against conservatives. 

I stand with property owners, not with forced carbon burial. No landowner should have their rights overridden for unwanted underground carbon storage. It should be illegal, and I am committed to working with anyone willing to defend private property against this abuse. Mike Johnson and Brett Geymann stand there, as well. They can speak for themselves and will.

— State Representative Charles Owen (without an “s”).

The Kisatchie Fly Fishers are proud to host the 6th Biennial Cenla Fly Fishing Festival on Saturday, Jan. 24 from 8:30 am – 3:30 pm at Kees Park Civic Center in Pineville. Admission is free.

Held in even years, this event features expert seminars on fly fishing for bass, trout, redfish and other species, kayak fishing, and other aspects of the sport. There’s also fly tying demonstrations, casting instruction, exhibitors, a raffle, and much more. Lunch is available for a nominal charge. Net proceeds from the raffle benefit The Food Bank of Central Louisiana.

For details, go to the Kisatchie Fly Fishers website at www.kisatchiefly.org.

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office marked a milestone in expanding public safety services with a groundbreaking ceremony on Jan. 21 for the new Cheneyville Sheriff’s Substation on U.S. Highway 71 South.

The project is part of an ongoing effort by Sheriff Mark Wood’s administration, which since 2020 has partnered with volunteer fire departments in rural areas of the parish to improve access to law enforcement and emergency services. The Cheneyville substation follows the opening of the Hineston Substation on Louisiana Highway 121 and the Kolin Substation on Palmer Chapel Road in Pineville.

Planning for the Cheneyville location took several months and was made possible through funding provided by the State of Louisiana, with support from District 38 Representative Rhonda Butler and District 29 Senator W. Jay Luneau. The groundbreaking ceremony was held in conjunction with Rapides Parish Fire District 12, led by Chief Stanley.

The new substation is intended to serve the southern portion of the parish, improving response times and strengthening law enforcement coverage for the communities of Cheneyville and Lecompte. In addition to patrol operations, the substation will provide residents with more convenient access to investigative services.

Once operational, the Cheneyville substation will offer 24-hour coverage. Staffing will include a deputy communications officer, a patrol deputy, a resident deputy and a detective assigned to assist citizens with investigations, reducing the need for residents to travel to Alexandria for services.

Local and parish officials attended the ceremony, including mayors from Cheneyville, Lecompte and Woodworth, along with members of the Rapides Parish Police Jury. Sheriff Wood said the collaboration reflects a shared commitment among local leaders to enhance public safety and provide residents with reliable and accessible law enforcement services.

The Cheneyville substation represents the latest step in a broader strategy to expand community-based public safety infrastructure across Rapides Parish.

Mary Ann Williams, age 65, of Alexandria Louisiana, entered eternal rest on January 18, 2026. Funeral services will be held at Gallagher Funeral Home on Sunday, January 25, with visitation beginning at 2:00pm until time of service at 3:00pm with Bro. Grady Dodge officiating.

Left to cherish her memory are her loving husband of 42 years, Arthur Louis Williams, her daughter Amanda Marie Williams; her sons Joseph Allen Williams and Wade Raymond Williams and his children, Christina, Evelyn, and Jacob; her brothers, Steve Roshto and Ray Roshto and their wives; and her sister, Kaylene Thomas and her husband; along with many nieces and nephews, and cousins and other beloved family members. She is preceded in death with her parents, Ray and Dottie Roshto, her brothers, Harry (Bully) Roshto and Jerry (Joker) Roshto, and her beloved sister Linda Marie Hinton.

To know Mary was to love her. She was blessed with a gentle, kind, and generous spirit, always placing the needs of others before her own. Her family and faith in the Lord meant everything to her. And she was a devoted sister who helped care for most of her siblings at one time or another during her lifetime.

Before the progression of her illness, Mary faithfully drove miles on Sundays to attend and bring her grandson to Children’s Church at Richey Baptist Church. She particularly regretted not being well enough to attend Christmas services. Mary loved to fish and spent many long days fishing with her brother, Steve. She also loved playing cards and games with her family and friends. She regularly visited friends and family in hospitals, always bringing a thoughtful gift. She spoke often of how she enjoyed many vacations at the beach with family members and of her vacations with her cousins. She also spoke of how much she enjoyed many impromptu drives with her husband to their favorite eating places.

She remained optimistic despite her hard-fought battle with cancer. She was looking forward to getting back to a job she so loved, going back to church with her sweet grandson, and doing all the other things she enjoyed. She is, instead, experiencing unending joy, peace, and perfect happiness in the presence of our Lord.

Her family wishes to thank everyone for all the love, prayers, and concerns during her illness. A special thanks to her employers and coworkers at Payne, Moore & Herrington, who remained so helpful, thoughtful, and caring, even after she was no longer able to work. Also, a special thanks to Billy McRae, Director of Christus Community Clinics, for his exceptional care and advice during Mary’s final days.

Mary will be sorely missed by everyone who knew her.

Mr. John Steven Jordan, age 73, of Winnfield, LA passed away on Thursday, January 8, 2026, in Alexandria, LA. He was born on Wednesday, February 6, 1952, in Winnfield, LA.

Steve spent many years devoted to his work and his family. He was employed at Centurylink telephone company for 31 years. He was baptized at Zion Hill Baptist Church in Tennehill, LA. Steve found joy in laughing and joking with his family and friends, and cherishing times that he spent with his wife and grandchildren.

Steve looked forward to his yearly outings with his friends when they would go to places such as Broken Arrow, OK or Dallas, TX. These friends consisted of Earl Wright, Brett Flournoy, Mike Sullivan, Eddie Jenkins, Rich Hannah, Terry Skains, and James Kraft.

Steve was preceded in death by his father, Henry DeLoyce Jordan, mother, Ellen Maurine James; brother, James E. “Buddy” Jordan; and his cherished nephew, Phillip Allen.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Pamela Smith Jordan; daughters, Kristina Jordan and Brittany Jordan; stepchildren, Jared Little and Jenna Walsworth (Andy); and his grandchildren, Lillian, Maya, Ian, and Hudson.

A memorial service will be held in his honor at the 1st Assembly of God Church in Winnfield, LA on January 24, 2026, at 1:00 pm.

The Kiwanis Club of Alexandria hosted Mayor Jacques Roy and Chief of Police Chad Gremillion as guest speakers at its January meeting.

During the session, the officials discussed upcoming plans for the Masonic Drive area as well as issues related to crime and community engagement.

Club members said the presentation was informative and appreciated the opportunity to hear directly from city leadership about initiatives impacting the Alexandria community.

Rapides Parish is expected to experience a significant change in weather conditions later this week, with periods of rain followed by a sharp drop in temperatures and the potential for freezing rain heading into the weekend.

Rain chances will increase on Wednesday as cloudy skies dominate the area and showers become more likely through the afternoon. Rain is expected to continue into Wednesday night, with mild overnight temperatures remaining in the lower 50s. Showers may linger into Thursday, with highs reaching the mid-60s and rain chances gradually decreasing.

Cloudy conditions are expected to persist on Friday, with scattered showers possible during the afternoon. Daytime temperatures are forecast to remain near 60 degrees before cooling rapidly Friday night. Overnight lows are expected to fall into the mid-30s as rain becomes more widespread.

Saturday is expected to bring much cooler conditions, with highs only reaching the lower 40s. Rain showers are likely throughout the day, and by Saturday night, temperatures are forecast to fall into the lower 20s. As colder air settles in, rain may transition to freezing rain during the evening and overnight hours, increasing the risk of icy road conditions.

A lingering chance of freezing rain and rain showers is forecast for Sunday morning before conditions begin to improve later in the day. Afternoon highs are expected to reach the upper 30s. Cold but drier weather is expected to continue into Sunday night and Monday, with overnight lows around 20 degrees and daytime highs in the lower 40s.

Residents are encouraged to monitor local weather updates and prepare for potentially hazardous travel conditions this weekend as freezing temperatures and icy precipitation move into the area.

Rapides Parish Patrol Deputies and other First Responders responded to a report of an accidental shooting on Jan. 19 around 2:20 am that occurred in a vehicle traveling northbound on US-71 near US-167 south of Lecompte.

According to the initial information, a passenger in the vehicle was handling a firearm when they accidentally discharged it, fatally striking them in the head. The driver of the vehicle immediately called 911 for assistance and was instructed to meet the ambulance in the parking lot of Rapides High School as they were unfamiliar with the area.

Pafford Ambulance arrived on the scene and determined the subject was not breathing and not responsive. Sheriff’s Detectives and Crime Scene Unit responded to conduct their investigation. The Rapides Parish Coroner’s Office responded and pronounced the subject deceased.

Sheriff’s Detectives say their investigation is still ongoing. However, at this time, all evidence indicates this was an tragic accident and no foul play was involved.

If anyone has any information about this incident, they are asked to contact the Criminal Investigation Division – Main Office, at 318-473-6727 or RPSO Main Office at 318-473-6700.

After more than two decades of public service, District 5 City Councilman Nathan Martin has announced he will not seek another term. In a statement dated Jan. 20, 2026, Martin reflected on his time in office and shared the reasons behind his decision.

“Serving the City of Pineville for more than two decades has been one of the great honors of my life,” Martin wrote. “I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and for the opportunity to work alongside dedicated public servants across our City, Parish, and State.”

Martin, who has served six terms representing District 5, expressed special appreciation for city employees, calling them “the real heroes of Pineville’s success” for their tireless work in making the community thrive. He also reflected on the progress the city has made and the relationships he has built during his tenure.

Turning 60 last year prompted Martin to consider his priorities. In his statement, he said he feels called to focus on family—particularly his grandchildren—and his pastoral ministry. “I remain committed to Pineville and will continue to support our city, its leadership, and its people through prayer, service, and meaningful community involvement,” he wrote.

Martin concluded his announcement by thanking citizens and supporters for their trust and partnership over the years. “I step away from this role with a clear conscience, a grateful heart, and confidence that the Lord orders our steps,” he said.

The City of Pineville has announced Erika E-LoVe as the winner of its 2026 Annual Mardi Gras Poster Contest.

City officials said E-LoVe’s design captured the spirit of Pineville’s “Community Heart,” incorporating decorative “Pineville” flourishes and a map of the historic downtown area into a colorful Mardi Gras-themed piece.

Official copies of the 2026 Mardi Gras poster will be available for purchase beginning Monday, Jan. 26, at the Pineville City Hall Utility Office. Posters are priced at $20 and will be sold Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

City leaders also thanked all artists who submitted entries, noting the strong participation and talent within the local arts community.

In a world of endless alerts and nonstop trends, the public’s attention rarely makes it past the loading screen before the next “new thing” drops.

On January 21, 1793, King Louis XVI of France was executed by guillotine in Paris, a moment that irrevocably altered the course of French and European history. The execution marked a dramatic escalation of the French Revolution and symbolized the collapse of centuries-old monarchy.

Louis XVI ascended the throne in 1774 during a time of economic strain and social inequality. France faced crushing debt, widespread poverty, and resentment toward an aristocracy seen as detached from the struggles of ordinary citizens. Revolutionary ideas gained momentum, fueled by Enlightenment philosophies advocating liberty, equality, and popular sovereignty.

Following the storming of the Bastille in 1789, the monarchy’s authority steadily eroded. Louis XVI was eventually arrested and charged with treason, accused of conspiring against the nation and attempting to undermine the revolution. His trial before the National Convention was unprecedented, placing a reigning monarch on trial by his own people.

The execution itself was swift but symbolic. As the guillotine blade fell in the Place de la Révolution, it sent shockwaves across Europe. Monarchies feared similar uprisings within their own borders, while revolutionaries viewed the act as a decisive break from tyranny. France soon found itself at war with several European powers determined to suppress revolutionary ideals.

Domestically, the execution intensified political divisions. The revolution entered its most violent phase, known as the Reign of Terror, as leaders sought to eliminate perceived enemies of the state. Thousands were executed in the name of protecting the revolution, leaving a legacy of both radical change and profound loss.

January 21 remains one of the most significant dates of the French Revolution. The death of Louis XVI transformed a reform movement into a full-scale revolution, redefining governance, citizenship, and the balance of power in modern societies.

Funeral services for Mr. Edwin Charles “Charlie” Moore will be held at 12:00 noon on Friday, January 23, 2026, in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, with Dr. Philip Robertson officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Laurel Hill Cemetery, Hicks, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Mr. Charlie Moore, 81, was born June 20, 1944, in LeCompte, LA, and entered eternal rest on Friday, January 16, 2026, in Pineville, LA.

Charlie was a very talented musician, having started his music career at the early age of sixteen, playing “Swamp Pop” in the local clubs of Lake Charles. His music career spanned sixty years, and he played with some of the finest musicians, including Merle Haggard, Ray Price, Gene Watson, Steve Wariner, Gene King, Avery Belguard, Peggy Forman, and many others. Charlie loved playing steel guitar, but was also skilled on the bass guitar and keyboard.

Charlie also loved racing cars at local tracks such as Forest Hill Speedway and Thunder Valley. It was a family affair when he was racing. Charlie drove 18-wheeler trucks most of his life, and hauled many loads all over the state. He was an owner-operator and had up to ten trucks when I-49 was built around Alexandria. He was a member of Philadelphia Baptist Church in Deville. He was also a member of the W.D. Fisher Masonic Lodge at Deville and Past Master at the Forest Hill Masonic Lodge.

He was preceded in death by one son, Charles Brian Moore; his parents, Edwin and Beulah Moore; two brothers, Danny Moore and Marc Moore; and one sister, Marilyn Clark.

Those left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory include his loving wife of forty-four years, Sue Moore; four daughters, Lisa Johnson (Randall) of Clearview, Florida, Monica Williams (Mark) of Lafayette, Heather O’Bannon (Trent) of Alexandria, and Katie Chatagnier of Pineville; one son, Randall Graham of Angola; one sister, Sharon Wright (Carroll) of Moss Bluff; one brother, Gary Moore (Sheila) of Mabank, Texas; nine grandchildren, Kris Johnson (Amanda), Jonathon Williams, Ryan Williams (Shelby), Cameron Johnson (Samantha), Madi Grace Williams (Cade Denais), Tayler Reeves, Patience Chatagnier (Chris Lengua), Ady Chatagnier and Deuce Chatagnier; and eight great grandchildren.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Trinity Health PACE of Alexandria and Allegiance Hospice for their excellent care during Charlie’s final days.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are: Gary Moore, Chris Steiner, Colt Steiner, Trent O’Bannon, Mark Williams, and Randy Graham. Honorary pallbearers will be Randall Johnson, Chuck Steiner, Kris Johnson, Jonathon Williams, Ryan Williams, Cameron Johnson, and Deuce Chatagnier.

Noland Joseph Marcantel, 79, of Alexandria, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026 at St Frances Cabrini Hospital.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday January 21, 2026 at Gallagher Funeral Home & Crematory with Military Honors. Visitation will take place Wednesday January 21, 2026 from 9:00a.m. until the service hour. Private Burial will follow in the Southwest Louisiana Veteran’s Cemetery in Jennings, Louisiana.

He is preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Lillie Buller, and his sister Brenda Marcantel Smith. He is survived by his wife, Marsha Stevens Marcantel; his four children, Mitzi Fairbanks (Todd), Joe DeKeyzer (Carrie, Denyse DeKeyzer, Christina Renard (Billy); his eleven grandchildren, Lexi McCall (Cory), William DeKeyzer (Scarlett), Elliot Fairbanks, Jansen Fairbanks, Ayden Miller, Makenzie Renard, Makaila Renard, Major Renard, Clinton Busby, Cody Busby (Paige), and Claire Baty (Will). and eight great grandchildren Ramsey, Ivey, Violet, Pierce, Dani, Weston, Atlee, and Myles

Noland was born on September 19, 1946. He grew up in Elton, Louisiana where he attended Elton High School. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1964 to 1968, where he was stationed in Pakistan. His service was a source of lifelong pride.

Following his military service, Noland spent over 60 years in the car business and was well known throughout the community for his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. He was employed with Hixson Ford, Petron, Cajun Signs, and later became co-owner of HyperGraphics Screenprinting and Embroidery alongside his wife, Marsha. Together, they built not only a business, but a life rooted in dedication and partnership.Noland was a dedicated member of the Pineville First United Methodist Church for over 25 years where he sang in the church choir.

Noland was married to the love of his life, Marsha Stevens Marcantel, for 33 years. He cherished their adventures together, whether traveling, visiting garage sales, or simply enjoying coffee with friends. He had a deep love for rodeo, livestock shows, football, and spending time outdoors. Some of his greatest joys were taking field trips with his grandchildren and being present for their lives in big and small ways.
Noland will be remembered for his larger-than-life personality, love of storytelling, loyalty to family and friends, and the countless memories he created with those who knew him.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make donations in Noland’s honor to the First United Methodist Church, Pineville, LA.

The Rapides Parish Fire District responded to a structure fire on Jan. 17 at approximately 9:47 p.m., with units arriving quickly and initiating fire suppression operations.

Upon arrival, firefighters conducted a 360-degree size-up and observed fire pushing from the roof area near the fireplace chimney. Crews deployed two 200-foot crosslays of 1¾-inch hose and placed ground ladders at the rear of the residence. Firefighters accessed the roof and entered through the attic, allowing them to locate and suppress the fire in a timely manner.

As operations continued, a second page was requested to bring in mutual aid and additional volunteers.

Once additional personnel arrived on scene, a water supply was established to the primary attack engine. After the fire was brought under control, crews transitioned to overhaul operations and equipment recovery.

Chief Wes Anders contacted the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal to assist with determining the official cause and origin of the fire.

The fire department expressed appreciation to all responding personnel and assisting agencies for their support and coordination, including the Effie Fire Department, Deville Fire Department, Pafford EMS Louisiana, and the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal.

Officials noted the incident underscored the importance of rapid response, coordinated operations, and strong mutual-aid partnerships in protecting the community.

The Pineville Lions Club reported a highly active and successful weekend highlighted by community outreach efforts and participation in statewide Lions Club events.

The club hosted its first-ever Community Resource Fair, an event organizers described as a success, with several community members reached and assistance provided throughout the day. Club members said the event offered valuable lessons and momentum as planning begins for next year’s fair. Pineville Lions Shelli and Tonya were recognized for their leadership and dedication in organizing the event, along with club members Tom, Hershal, Elaine, Bill, Steve, and Marc, who assisted during the fair.

In addition to local service efforts, the Pineville Lions Club was represented at the Lions of Louisiana (LIO) Conference held at the Louisiana Lions Camp. Pineville Lion and Camp Board Member Sebastian attended the conference on Saturday, representing the club while networking with Lions from across the state and gaining insight into Lions Club initiatives.

On Sunday, Pineville Lion Marc attended the conference’s closing breakfast, where he met International Director Lion Dave Wineman of Michigan. During the event, Marc was surprised with the International President’s Award in recognition of excellence in service and going above and beyond in his commitment to Lionism.

Club members described the weekend as a strong example of service, leadership, and fellowship, reflecting the Pineville Lions Club’s ongoing commitment to community involvement and service.