Evangeline Marie Hilton, a fifth-grade student from Rapides Parish, was recognized as a nominee in the Louisiana Department of Education’s 2026 Students of the Year program, which honors students who exemplify excellence in academics, leadership, and service.

The Louisiana Department of Education, in partnership with the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE), announced nominees for the 2026 Students of the Year program on Jan. 6. The statewide initiative recognizes outstanding fifth, eighth, and twelfth grade students for their leadership, academic performance, achievements, citizenship, and service to their schools and communities.

Students are selected through a competitive review process that includes public, charter, and nonpublic schools within each BESE region. From this group of nominees and regional honorees, finalists will be named later in the school year. Finalists will be recognized at a statewide awards ceremony, where one overall honoree per grade level will be selected.

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The City of Alexandria will honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a series of interdenominational events on Sunday, January 18, and Monday, January 19, inviting the community to come together in remembrance, reflection, and unity.

The observances begin Sunday, January 18, with a Wreath Laying Ceremony at 4:00 p.m. at the Martin Luther King Memorial on Murray Street, hosted by Alpha Phi Alpha. Later that evening, attendees can enjoy the MLK Musical at 5:30 p.m. at the Alexandria Convention Hall.

On Monday, January 19, the schedule continues with a Prayer Breakfast at 6:30 a.m. at the Alexandria Convention Hall, featuring guest speaker Dr. C.E. McLain of Little Union Baptist Church. The MLK Parade begins at 10:00 a.m., following the route from Bolton Street to Jackson Street, then Third Street, and concluding at the Convention Hall. Grand Marshal for the parade is Pastor Tom Hamilton of Pilgrim Baptist Church.

The observances will conclude with a Noon Day Service at 12:00 p.m. at the Alexandria Convention Hall, featuring guest speaker Dr. Mark Johnson from Louisiana Christian University.

The city encourages residents of all ages and backgrounds to participate in these events to celebrate Dr. King’s contributions and reflect on his message of equality, service, and unity.

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Rapides Parish Patrol Deputies responded to the 5100 block of Bonnie Loop in Alexandria on Jan. 7 around 6:30 am in reference to a request for assistance by a fellow deputy who had allegedly just been attacked.

According to initial information, upon arrival, deputies observed a Uniformed Deputy assigned to the School Resource Officer Division, holding a suspect at gunpoint in the yard of a residence. The suspect, later identified as Robert Joshua Ellis, 36, was taken into custody without further incident.

According to the deputy, as he was leaving for his duty assignment approaching his marked RPSO vehicle, Ellis allegedly threw an object at him. When the deputy turned to look in the direction where the item came from, Ellis was allegedly charging toward the deputy, armed with a 4’ long heavy duty floor scraper, swinging it at him. The deputy was able to side step Ellis just in time where the blade of the floor scraper cut his uniform jacket. The deputy then created distance from the suspect, drawing his duty weapon and ordering the suspect to the ground, in which the suspect complied.

When Patrol Deputies arrived, Ellis was placed under arrest for Aggravated Battery of a Police Officer. As Patrol Deputies continued their investigation, they located the item that was allegedly thrown at the deputy and discovered it was a glass bottle with a rag in the spout, filled with gasoline, otherwise known as a “Molotov Cocktail”. Sheriff’s Detectives and RPSO Bomb Squad responded to conduct their investigation. A search warrant was executed on the residence where other incendiary devices were located.

Sheriff’s Detectives continued their investigation and Ellis was transported and booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center on various charges, including Attempted First Degree Murder of a Peace Officer. The incendiary devices were rendered safe by the RPSO Bomb Squad.

Ellis remains in the Rapides Parish Detention Center at the time of this release as bond has not been set.

“ALL PERSONS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW OR ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION.”

Arrestee: Robert Joshua Ellis, 36
5124 Bonnie Loop, Alexandria, LA

Charges: Aggravated battery of a police officer
Criminal damage to property (warrant)
Criminal Trespass
Disturbing the peace by loud and offensive language
Attempted First Degree Murder of a Police Officer
Hate Crimes
Manufacture or Possession of an Incendiary Device

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Anthony “Tony” Larry Jr., 86 of Alexandria, Louisiana, passed from this life into the eternal presence and kingdom of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Sunday, January 4, 2026, surrounded by the love and adoration of his children.

Born in Sherman, Texas, to his mother, Amanda Wilson, and father, Anthony Insogna, Sr, in 1939. He attended Sherman High School where he participated in football and various other sports, before starting his long and successful military career. It was during this transition that he married the love of his life, Betty Joyce Anderson Larry, to whom he was married for more than 66 years, prior to her passing in 2024.

Tony enlisted in the United States Army in 1958, as a Military Policeman. During his career, he served many roles, including Military Police Investigator and as a Special Agent with the US Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID). He attained the rank of SFC/E-7 before his commission to Warrant Officer, and subsequent promotion to Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CW2). Tony served three tours in South Korea and two tours in Germany, along with assignments at various other posts in the states. He ended his career at Fort Benning, Georgia, where he commanded the Drug Suppression Team with vengeance. During his military career, Tony received many awards and commendations for his excellence in service. Post retirement, Tony took a civilian job that relocated the family to Alexandria. Tony served the community as a Deputy Sheriff with the Rapides Parish Sheriffs Office. He retired a second time.

Tony was an amazing man! He was a loving, committed, and faithful husband; a one-of-a-kind father to his children. He was generous to a fault and would literally have given the shirt off his back. He was patient and forgiving. He also had a very scary presence when he intended it. His large stature and heavy voice were very formidable and intimidating he was very protective of his family. Tony was a competitive shooter. He was a crack marksman and he passed that down to his son, having taught all of the skills and techniques of being a marksman. He was also a pool shark. He could dominate a table with his skill. He loved crafting leather holsters and gifting them. His gun fetish was nuts! He enjoyed collecting coins and memorabilia. He was a good man!

He is preceded in death by his mother and father, Amanda and Anthony, his wife, Betty, and eldest daughter, Shelley, and sister, Mary.

Surviving relatives include: Daughter, Cindy, daughter, Kristi, son, Tony, and son, Wayne, numerous grand-children, great grand-children, and even a great, great, grand.

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Jay L. Barber, Jr., age 71, entered eternal rest on Tuesday, January 6, 2025, in Alexandria at Christus St. Frances Cabrini Hospital surrounded by his loving family.

The Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at River Outreach Church in Pineville. Services will be held at the church on Monday at 10:00 a.m. with Pastor Dennis Dunn, Phillip Terrell, and Mike Byrnes officiating. Interment will follow in Forest Lawn Memorial Park under the direction of Gallagher Funeral Home.

He was preceded in death by his parents, J. L. Sr. and Connie Hancock; and brother, Kyle Hancock.
Those left to cherish his memory include his children, Jason Barber and wife Jessica, Dustin Barber and wife Chasity, and Courtney “Bug” McKee and husband Jacob; grandchildren, Austin Barber, Taylor Barber Camel and husband Michael Jr., Tyler Barber, Gabrielle Barber, Eden Barber, Elijah McKee, and Malachi McKee; step mother, Earline Grider; siblings, Karen Duke and husband Donald, Bill Barber, Bryan Barber, Melinda Keirsey, and Todd Hancock; his “bestest best friend”, Deborah Fay. Jay L. Barber was born on January 6, 1955, in Hobbs, New Mexico. He grew up working on ranches in southeastern New Mexico and Odessa, Texas, where he learned the values of hard work, discipline, and service that would guide his life.

Jay devoted his life to two great passions: law enforcement and coaching. He served more than 30 years in law enforcement and retired as Chief of Police for the City of Pineville. Throughout his career, he was a dedicated public servant and leader, serving as Past President of the National Narcotic Detector Dog Association and Past President of the Louisiana D.A.R.E. Officers Association. He also served as a D.A.R.E. officers’ class instructor for the State of Louisiana, was a member of the Louisiana State D.A.R.E. Council, supervised the Rapides Parish D.A.R.E. Unit, and was honored with the Louisiana Attorney General’s Community Champion Award. Jay also received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Louisiana D.A.R.E. Officers Association.

In addition to his law enforcement career, Jay had a lifelong love for coaching and mentoring young people. He began coaching youth sports at Ward 10, including football, basketball, baseball, and softball.

He later served as the softball coach at Tioga High School and at LCU, where he coached until retirement. After retiring, he returned to Tioga High School to continue coaching softball.

Jay was inducted into the Louisiana Softball Coaches Hall of Fame and received Distinguished Service recognition. His teams achieved numerous conference championships, regional appearances, and state championship appearances. While at LCU, he was part of the ASC coaching staff during multiple successful seasons, including a Division II College World Series appearance.

Above all else, Jay loved coaching softball, mentoring athletes, and helping young people grow both on and off the field. Even more, he deeply loved his family and was a devoted father and grandfather whose presence, guidance, and unwavering support shaped the lives of those closest to him. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched, both personally and professionally.

Pallbearers honored to serve are Tyler Barber, Austin Barber, Mike Byrnes, David Nunally, Harry Welch, and Phillip Terrell. Honorary are Wade Bynog, Jody Moreau, George Barrett, Dana Rachal, Keith Mclain, Elijah McKee, Malachi McKee, and the Tioga Softball Coaching Staff.

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The Rotary Club of Alexandria began 2026 with a well-attended meeting centered on economic development and regional growth in Central Louisiana.

Members and guests heard from Chris Masingill, president and CEO of Louisiana Central, who joined consultants to outline a comprehensive economic development plan for the region. The presentation also highlighted the “We Make Good Stuff” Roadshow, an initiative aimed at showcasing Central Louisiana’s strengths, business opportunities, and workforce potential.

In addition to the program, the Rotary Club recognized Carlina Rika for receiving her Paul Harris Fellow award, honoring her commitment to service and support of Rotary’s mission.

Louisiana Central representatives expressed appreciation for the opportunity to share insights on economic development and to discuss ongoing and future business growth across the region. The meeting concluded with discussion and engagement among attendees, providing what organizers described as an informative hour filled with meaningful conversation and valuable takeaways for the year ahead.

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The Pineville Police Department announced the passing of retired Police Chief Jay L. Barber, remembering him for his years of service and leadership within the department and the community.

Chief Barber served the citizens of Pineville as chief of police during two separate terms, first from September 1996 to October 1997, and again from May 2003 to October 2007. During his tenure, he was known for his dedication to public service and his commitment to the officers and residents of Pineville.

Department officials said Chief Barber’s leadership left a lasting impact on the Pineville Police Department and helped shape the agency during his years in command.

The Pineville Police Department extended its deepest condolences to the Barber family, as well as to Chief Barber’s friends, former colleagues, and all those mourning his loss.

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Rapides Parish residents can expect foggy mornings, increasing rain chances late in the week, and a noticeable cool-down heading into the weekend, according to the latest forecast.

Wednesday will begin with widespread dense fog, which may reduce visibility during the morning commute. Skies are expected to remain mostly cloudy early before turning mostly sunny by late morning.

Afternoon highs will reach the upper 70s, with light winds shifting from west to south. Wednesday night will be partly cloudy early, becoming mostly cloudy, with lows in the lower 60s.

Mostly cloudy conditions continue Thursday, with a 30 percent chance of showers developing during the afternoon. Highs are forecast in the upper 70s, while south winds increase to 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph. Rain chances rise Thursday night, with a 50 percent chance of showers after midnight and overnight lows in the mid 60s.

Friday is shaping up to be the most active weather day of the week. Showers are likely in the morning, followed by showers and a chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Rain chances peak at 90 percent, with highs in the mid 70s. Cooler air will arrive Friday night as showers and possible thunderstorms continue, dropping lows into the lower 50s.

The weekend will bring much cooler temperatures. Saturday and Saturday night will remain mostly cloudy, with daytime highs in the lower 60s and overnight lows falling into the upper 30s.

From Sunday through Tuesday, mostly cloudy skies are expected to persist, with highs in the mid 50s and lows in the mid 30s, keeping conditions well below average for this time of year.

Drivers are urged to use caution during periods of dense fog, and residents should prepare for wet weather late in the week followed by colder conditions through the weekend and into early next week.

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The Ruby-Kolin Fire Department marked a busy year in 2025, responding to hundreds of calls while continuing to serve the community with a combination of full-time, part-time, and volunteer personnel.

According to department officials, Ruby-Kolin Fire Department personnel answered a total of 384 calls for service throughout the year, accounting for more than 822 hours dedicated to emergency response and public service across the district and surrounding areas.

Medical emergencies made up the majority of calls, with firefighters responding to 235 incidents. The department also handled 22 motor vehicle accidents and 19 good intent or public service calls. Wildland fires accounted for 16 responses, while false or fire alarms resulted in 11 calls.

Additional incidents included six hazardous materials responses, six power line incidents, six dispatched and canceled calls, and 55 mutual aid responses to assist neighboring departments. Fire-related calls included two car fires, two structure fires, two trash fires, one camper fire, and one lightning strike incident.

Department officials credited the year’s efforts to the dedication and professionalism of their personnel, noting that firefighters answered the call whenever help was needed, regardless of the situation.

The department also expressed appreciation for surrounding fire departments that provided mutual aid and support throughout the year, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in emergency response.

Fire officials thanked the Ruby-Kolin community for its continued trust and support, stating that community backing plays a vital role in the department’s mission to serve and protect. The Ruby-Kolin Fire Department said it looks forward to continuing that mission in the year ahead.

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A burn ban may stop brush fires, but it doesn’t slow fear, outrage, or misinformation. Some fires don’t require permits.

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September 26, 1942 – December 30, 2025

Rosie Lee Hollingsworth Bobb, a cherished mother, grandmother, aunt, and faithful servant, passed away on December 30, 2025, at the age of 83. Her life was a bright testament to faith, family, and the joy of giving. Powder blue was her favorite color, a small but steadfast detail that reflected the soft grace she shared with everyone she met. Rosie loved to cook, sew, and garden, and she delighted in using these gifts to nurture others and beautify the world around her.

A longtime and beloved member of the church community, Rosie’s faith and service were at the heart of her days. She sang in the church choir, served proudly as a deaconess, and was recently appointed Mother of the Church at Raven Camp Baptist Church. She was deeply committed to the church’s Mission, and her passion for spiritual growth and outreach inspired many. Rosie was also an active participant in the Joy group-“Just Older Youth”-a community of friends who shared laughter, fellowship, and a lifelong love of learning.

Public viewing and visitation will be held at True Vine Baptist Church, 831 Broadway Avenue, Alexandria, Louisiana 71302, on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Funeral Service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the same location. Interment will take place at Garden of Memories, 2733 Eddie Williams Avenue, Alexandria, Louisiana 71302, after the service.

Rosie will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her warmth, generosity, and steadfast faith left an enduring imprint on her family, her church, and her many friends. The family invites all who were touched by Rosie’s life to share memories and condolences as they celebrate a life well lived.

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June 9, 1947 — January 5, 2026

Barbara Jean White, a native of Denver, Colorado, longtime resident of Boyce, Louisiana and currently of Denham Springs, Louisiana, passed away peacefully January 5, 2026 at the age of 78. She was born on June 9, 1947 and was married to Walter Allen White of Boyce for 30 +years until his passing.

Barbara was preceded by her father Virgil Barely, mother Barbara Bower, husband Walter White, sister Kathy Johnson and Grandson Cody Dean Johnson

She is survived by her children, Steve Swolley and wife Janie, Sue Swolley, Dean White, and Jeanne Denise White Nash and husband Richard. Also survived by seven grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild.

She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, great great grandmother and will be dearly missed by her family and friends

She spent 20 + years at Walmart and opened a daycare because of her love for children. After moving to Denham Springs, she loved going to the Council on Aging daily where she met many good people. The family would like to thank the Council on Aging for all of love, support, and friendship they extended to our mom for the years she attended. Also the family would like to show appreciation to St. Joseph Carpenter House for her final care and compassion for our mother.

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Residents of Pineville can celebrate the return of Lou & Laura’s! The popular local eatery is back in the neighborhood, serving up their signature flavors from a food trailer while their new brick-and-mortar location is being prepared.

As of Jan. 5, Lou & Laura’s will be open for lunch, giving locals a chance to enjoy the dishes they’ve been missing. City officials and community members are encouraging everyone to support the restaurant during its first week back in Pineville.

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When Joe was born in July of 1915, his grandfather announced, “This child is the future president of the nation.” At the time, Joe’s grandfather was the mayor of Boston, Massachusetts, and Joe’s father was the president of the Columbia Trust Bank in Boston. From a young age, Joe’s father groomed him for a career in politics with the presidency as his ultimate goal for his son. Joe’s eight siblings were all held to high standards, but Joe was the favorite child. If Joe had his own goals in life, he never acted on them.

In 1933, Joe graduated from the prestigious Choate School in Wallingford, Connecticut, and won the Harvard trophy, one of the most coveted of athletic prizes which was awarded annually to the member of the football team who best combined scholarship and sportsmanship. Although Joe was not the first person to win the trophy, his was the first name engraved upon it. Rather than going straight into college, Joe was one of 20 youths selected from over 900 applicants “for a year’s trip around the world on a four-masted schooner.” Joe and his group visited every continent and almost every European country on their tour. While in Germany, Joe praised Adolph Hitler and his forced sterilization program in a letter to his father. He said Hitler’s program was doing “away with many of the disgusting specimens of men which inhabit this earth.”

In the fall of 1934, Joe entered Harvard College and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree four years later. Joe then enrolled at Harvard Law School, the next logical step on his way to the presidency. With World War II looming on the horizon for Americans, Joe was among a group of Harvard students who formed the Harvard Committee Against Military Intervention in Europe and proclaimed, “Since, contrary to the assertions of the Committee for Militant Aid to Britain, there is every reason to believe that America is not now at war, it is incumbent upon us to consider the possibility of remaining at peace.”

War often brings opportunity. Despite his initial opposition to the war, Joe put his law studies on hold and enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserve in June of 1944. Becoming a war hero would certainly help his political ambitions. The United States officially entered the war on December 7, 1941, when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. As a pilot, Joe flew more than enough combat missions to allow him to return home. Fellow pilot Louis Papas said, “There was never an occasion for a mission that meant extra hazard that Joe did not volunteer. He had everybody’s unlimited admiration and respect for his courage, zeal, and willingness to undertake the most dangerous missions.” In August 1944, Joe volunteered to take part in Operation Aphrodite in which war-weary bombers were converted into radio-controlled missiles. The plan was that Joe and his co-pilot Wilford Willy would fly the “drone” bomber with over 21,000 pounds of explosives to an altitude of 2,000 feet at which point another airplane would gain complete radio control.

Joe and Wilford would then arm the explosives and parachute out of the airplane over England. The crew in the second airplane would fly the radio-controlled bomber to its target. At 6:18 p.m. on August 12, Joe radioed, “Spade Flush,” the code phrase for the second airplane to take radio control of the drone. At 6:20, while Joe and Wilford awaited the signal to bail out, the bombs detonated prematurely.

Joe’s father’s dreams of his son becoming president ended with Joe’s death. Well, only for a short time.

You see, had Joe not been killed during World War II, it is unlikely that his brother would have become president of the United States. Joe, Joseph Kennedy Jr., was the older brother of John F. Kennedy.

Sources:
Meriden Record, May 30, 1933, p.8.
Meriden Record, June 23, 1933, p.8.
The Boston Globe, July 20, 1934, p.3.
The Atlanta Constitution, December 18, 1940, p.28.
The Kansas City Times, August 15, 1944, p.3.
Meilan Solly, “The Top-Secret World War II Mission That Killed Joseph P. Kennedy Jr., the Heir Apparent to the Political Dynasty,” Smithsonian Magazine, August 12, 2024, https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/the-top-secret-world-war-ii-mission-that-killed-joseph-pkennedy-heir-apparent-political-dynasty-180984857/#:~:text=Joe%20Jr.’s%20time%20in,Kennedy%2C%20who%20had%20intellectual%20disabilities.

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“Titan”, a retired 11 year old Belgian Malanois, passed away last Tuesday after a lengthy illness. He retired from RPSO in 2018 after less than 2 years service due to a very rare disease, Canine Dysbiosis.

Canine Dysbiosis is a rare gastrointestinal disease that can be brought on by stress. The nutrients from the food cannot be absorbed by the intestine resulting in several other medical issues.

Due to “Titans” mission for RPSO, he was retired to his handler Cpl. John Deville until his passing last week. He lived very comfortably for the last 7 years as a “retiree”.

When “Titan” was retired, the company replaced him at no charge with another narcotics detection K-9.
“Titan” assisted in numerous illegal narcotics operations resulting in seizures and apprehension of dangerous suspects. While only serving a short amount of time, he was an asset to RPSO and surrounding communities.

Canines are more than just work dogs in the law enforcement world. They are their handlers partner and become part of the handlers family.

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Early Monday morning, Jan. 5, the Alexandria Fire Department (AFD) responded to a fatal residential fire at the intersection of Laurel Street and Virginia Avenue. The call came in around 5:45 a.m., and fire crews arrived on scene within three minutes.

Upon arrival, firefighters found a mobile home with heavy flames coming from one end of the structure.

During a search of the home, an unresponsive individual was discovered inside. Emergency medical services quickly extricated the person and transported them to a local hospital. Tragically, the individual later died from injuries sustained in the fire.

Firefighters worked swiftly to contain the blaze, bringing it under control within eleven minutes of arrival. Following a preliminary investigation, fire officials have determined the cause of the fire was related to an electrical issue.

The identity of the deceased has not been released pending notification of next of kin.

Authorities are reminding residents to exercise caution with electrical devices and outlets to help prevent similar incidents.

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A Mass of Christian Burial for Michael Wills Flynn will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at St. Rita Catholic Church with Rev. Paul LaPalme officiating. Interment will follow in Alexandria Memorial Gardens under the direction of John Kramer & Son Funeral Home.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM on Thursday, January 8, 2026, until the time of service at St. Rita Catholic Church. Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be 10:30 AM on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at the church.

Michael Wills Flynn, 74, left us to join his Heavenly Father on January 4, 2026.

Born to Cyril Jerome Flynn and Geraldine Mayeux Flynn on July 1, 1951, in Alexandria, Louisiana, “Mike” has been a devoted husband to his high school classmate, Billie Lynn Love for nearly 44 years.

Mike embodied the Christian life in many ways, most notably in his compassionate devotion to aging family members and friends who he visited and for whom he cared. He routinely visited his Alexandria and Baton Rouge aunts and brought joy to them and their families. Mike was a long-time member of Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church where he served as an altar boy in his youth and became a proud Eagle Scout. Mike attended St. Rita Catholic Church for many years. Most recently, he was a faithful member of Mary, Mother of Jesus Catholic Church in Woodworth.

A typical “Louisiana boy,” Mike loved the outdoors, fishing and hunting. He was an avid and talented woodworker and built his own boat at one time. He also built and renovated the homes in which he and Billie lived. Being on the water was another passion of his; he was an avid water skier for years and served as a lifeguard during high school and college. After graduating from Bolton High School in 1969, Mike then graduated from Northwestern State University and began a long career in plumbing supply businesses. Afterwards, in 2020, Mike and Billie began their courageous battle against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease to which he succumbed. It may seem the disease won, but it did not for he had faith and courage and, in the end, gained his reward. 

Mike is preceded in death by his parents, Jerry and Gerry Flynn; grandparents, FA and Marie Flynn and Gaston and Bessie Mayeux, and his brother, James “Jim” Flynn, Sr. He is survived by his loving wife, Billie Love Flynn; his stepson, John Michael Taylor (Shellie) and granddaughters, Lillie and Ella. Also mourning his loss is his grandson, Hayden Taylor who Mike guided and treated as his own. He is also survived by his siblings and their spouses, John (Nina) Flynn of Alexandria, Martha Ann (Tom) McMaster of McDonald, Pennsylvania and Thomas (Belinda) Flynn of Topeka, Kansas, his sister-in-law, Sarah Brown, and numerous nieces and nephews to whom he was a thoughtful, loving and kind uncle.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be James Flynn, Jr., Hayden Taylor, Keenan Flynn, Daniel Flynn, Brian Brodnax, David Flynn, Scott McMaster, and Jason Brown.

Charitable donations can be made to Mary, Mother of Jesus Building Fund, 9323 Highway 165 South, Woodworth, LA 71485 or a charity of your choice.

The family would like to thank Sandy, Samantha, Khristie, Hanan, Denise and all the care partners and staff of Brookdale Alexandria and Compassionate Care Hospice, especially Allison and Shellie.

To extend online notes of condolence to the Flynn Family, please visit www.KramerFunerals.com.

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December 21, 1934 — January 1, 2026

Agnes I. Neale MolliereDec. 21, 1934 – Jan. 1, 2026 Agnes Molliere, age 91, crossed into Gods heavenly gates on Jan. 1, 2026. She was born in Hineston, Louisiana to Richard and Amy Neale and lived most of her life in St. Amant, Louisiana. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and great-great grandmother, she will be dearly missed by her family and friends. She married the love of her life Rubin Molliere Jan. 30, 1954, in Fayette, Mississippi and resided most of their life in St. Amant, Louisiana until his passing.

After graduating high school, Agnes began a long-time career in the printing industry, she loved her work and was a dedicated employee. She instilled a much-appreciated work ethic into her children. Agnes was a faithful member of her church, enjoyed going to garage sales and barganing for items she wanted to buy, she loved crocheting, playing cards, and of course bingo.

Agnes is survived by brother Charlie Neale, children Daryl Molliere, Jackie Bergeron, Robbie Molliere, stepsons Rubin J. Molliere and wife Gloria, Archie Molliere and wife Gwen, 13 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren. Preceded in death by parents Richard and Amy Neale, her loving husband Rubin, sister Edith Randall, son-in-law Michael Bergeron, granddaughter Kandice Molliere, and many wonderful brother in-laws and sister in-laws.

Services will be held at The Church International in St. Amant on Thursday, January 8, 2026. Visitation will begin at 9 am until service time at 11 am. Burial to follow at Household of Faith Cemetary. The service will be conducted by brother in-law Larry Molliere.

Pallbearers are Bodie Molliere, Jeremia Molliere, Jaxton Carter, Lance Jacob, Nathan Litton Jr., Bennett Arnold and Nikolaus Kahn. Honorary pallbearer is Dexton Hayden. Arrangements by Church Funeral Services and Crematory 225-644-9683 http://www.churchfuneralservices.com

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This is the story of a little boy, Kevin Maccellean Massey, the tenth child of ten children born to Mr. John Calvin Massey, Sr, and Dorothy Martin Massey in Gray Court, SC, on March 14th, 1970.

Kevin was a curious and loving son. He was raised in the church, and he excelled at schoolwork. Kevin graduated from Laurens District 55 High School in 1988, where he was valedictorian and spoke at his graduation. From an early age, he was a leader. He went on to graduate from Clemson University with a B.S. degree in Chemical Engineering in 1993. He started his career with Hoerst Celanese in Mount Holley, NC, that same year. He began as a chemical engineer and process technician there but quickly rose to become a department manager. During his time in Mount Holly, he met his lovely wife, Pamela Dorsey Massey. They were married on April 28th, 2001.

Kevin was a born leader. He took a position in the following years in Baton Rouge, LA, as a mid-level manager. Even though he found tremendous success in the chemical industry, he never forgot his roots, where he was raised strong in Mount Carmel AME Church. He stayed in touch with the church no matter where his career took him, and he often returned to visit. Kevin remained steadfast in his faith. While his career took off, he maintained his values his mother, father, and church family had instilled in him. He used these values in his everyday life in his position as a site manager when he relocated to the Ohio area. He treated everyone he met with fairness and respect. Whether it was the security guard or the CEO of the plant, they were all the same in his eyes. Kevin had an infectious smile that endeared people to him.

At the peak of his career, Kevin and his wife were determined to get back to the south where they were both reared. He took a position as a site manager in Covington, GA, then in Saraland, AL, before ending up as site manager for Arkema in Pineville, LA. As a man, Kevin was able to touch many lives in the position he was in. He made everyone he met feel special and important thanks to his Christian values.

On Friday, December 26th, 2025, at 8:04 pm, Kevin completed his tenure here on Earth and began his walk with GOD. Kevin has joined his mother, Dorothy Martin Massey, his father John Calvin Massey, Sr., his sisters Mary Laine Bowser, Patricia Ann Massey, and brothers John Calvin Massey, Jr., Jimmy M Massey, Michael T Massey, and Curtis E Massey.

Kevin is survived by his sister Debra Massey, brothers Charles A Massey, Keith Massey, and family pet Cody Massey. As well as nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Funeral services for Kevin Maccellean Massey will be held at 2:00 pm, on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Mount Carmel AME Church, 209 Mount Carmel Church Road, Gray Court, SC 29645.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Alexandria, Louisiana, from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 pm.

Kevin Massey, the young boy, had grown into a man and had spread his love all over the places he had been in life. His infectious smile wanted you to get to know him. His honesty and love made you love him in return. He will be missed dearly by his family and friends. We love you, Kevin.

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Pelican Drive at Louisiana Highway 28 East will be temporarily closed later this week to allow crews to complete roadway improvements.

The closure is scheduled for Thursday and Friday, Jan. 8-9 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day. The affected section includes Pelican Drive between Hwy. 28 East and Hayes Manufacturing.

Officials say the closure is necessary to safely complete roadwork in the area. The project is expected to be completed within two days, weather permitting.

Motorists who regularly travel this route are encouraged to plan alternate routes during the closure periods. Drivers are thanked in advance for their patience and cooperation as improvements are made.

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Rapides Women’s & Children’s Hospital welcomed Rapide Parish’s first baby of the new year on January 1, 2026.

Roy and Mariah Coleman celebrated the arrival of their daughter, Lila Rae Coleman, at 7:18 a.m. Lila Rae weighed 8 pounds, 15 ounces, and measured 21 inches long at birth.

Hospital staff shared in the excitement of the milestone arrival and extended congratulations to the Coleman family, calling the newborn a joyful start to the new year and a special New Year’s blessing.

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Tioga Junior High educator Miranda DeCrane is being recognized as this week’s Classroom Hero for her dedication to empowering students and helping them discover their own potential.

With 18 years of experience in education, DeCrane focuses on building self-confidence in her students, encouraging them to recognize their individual strengths. She believes that when students learn to see what they are capable of, they are better prepared to face and overcome even the most challenging obstacles.

DeCrane also credits fellow educator Heather Tiley, an eighth-grade social studies teacher, as someone who continually amazes her with a positive impact on students. She describes Tiley’s passion for her subject matter as unmatched and inspiring.

Known for her student-centered, compassionate, and reflective approach to teaching, DeCrane exemplifies the spirit of the Classroom Hero program by helping students unleash their own “teaching superpowers” and grow both academically and personally.

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