Melba Ebarb passed away peacefully on December 24, 2025, at the age of 71, leaving behind a legacy of love, generosity, and grace. Her life was truly a beautiful one, well lived and deeply cherished by all who knew her.

Melba was born on January 27, 1954, to J.W. Ebarb and Evelyn Myers Ebarb, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Louis Ebarb.

A proud graduate of Tioga High School, Melba dedicated 26 years of service to the phone company, beginning her career as an operator and retiring from customer service. Her strong work ethic, kindness, and commitment to helping others were evident throughout her career.

A faithful member of St. Francis Cabrini Church, Melba’s faith was an important part of her life. She loved collecting beautiful things and had a special fondness for owls and anything that lit up, especially Christmas decor. Known for her good taste and exceptional gift giving, Melba brought joy to others through her thoughtfulness and generosity.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Jennifer Dauzat Sprayberry; and her cherished granddaughters, Sarah Dauzat and Olivia Sprayberry, who were the light of her life. She is also survived by her brother, Billy Ebarb (Kay); her sister, Sheila Littleton (Mitchell); and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins whom she adored deeply.

Melba was very much loved and will be remembered for her warmth, her generous heart, and the love she shared so freely with her family and friends.

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The Rapides Parish School Board recognized Carl Rudd of Alexandria Senior High School during its weekly Classroom Hero Highlight, spotlighting his nine years of service and impact in the classroom.

Rudd is known for empowering students through high-energy enthusiasm, consistent encouragement and rigorous academic expectations. His teaching style blends strong content knowledge with humor, creating an engaging environment that challenges students while keeping them motivated. His creative approach to instruction, including lighthearted classroom moments, helps students stay connected and invested in their learning.

In reflecting on colleagues who make a positive impact on students, Rudd pointed to fellow educator Leslie Ford, noting her strong literacy activities and use of multiple methods of engagement. He described her as an exceptional teammate whose work enhances student success.

The Classroom Hero Highlight program recognizes educators across Rapides Parish who demonstrate dedication, creativity and a lasting commitment to student achievement.

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Rapides Fire District No. 7 has announced a series of live burn training opportunities scheduled for January 2026, offering firefighters hands-on instruction in a controlled, realistic environment designed to strengthen essential firefighting skills.

The RKFD Live Burn Drill will take place at 1217 Palmer Chapel Road in Pineville. Training sessions are scheduled for January 3 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; January 19 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.; and January 28 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and again from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Participants are encouraged to register in advance to assist organizers with planning, staffing and resource coordination.

Training will include hands-on evolutions using a Class A burn prop, allowing participants to gain practical experience in fire behavior and fire dynamics. The sessions will focus on proper hose loads and advancement techniques, effective pump operations, and coordinated ventilation practices, emphasizing safe, efficient and disciplined fireground operations.

Required equipment for participation includes a full set of turnout gear, an SCBA with mask, and a spare SCBA bottle.

Rapides Fire District No. 7 is based at 163 Palmer Chapel Road in Pineville. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the district at (318) 448-4017 or by email at rapidesfd7@gmail.com.

To register go online to bit.ly/3Nf0Slv

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A beloved mother, grandmother, wife, sister, and friend, Mertie Burlette, age 66, passed away on Friday, December 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family. She was truly one of a kind-the most wonderful mother anyone could ask for, with the sweetest soul and the kindest heart.

Visitation for Mertie will be held on Monday, December 29, 2025, from 10:00-12:00 pm at Gallagher Funeral Home. Services will follow at 12:00 pm at the funeral home with Brother Lloyd Bye officiating.
Mertie is preceded in death by her husband, Charlie Burlette, Sr.; father, Boyd Martin; son, Kyle Burlette; granddaughter, Evangeline Brocato; and siblings, Justin Martin, Carrol Clark, and Kathy Maricle.

Those left to celebrate and cherish her memories are her loving daughters, Christal Brocato (Joseph) and Bonnie Adams (Charles); son, Charlie Burlette, Jr. (Andrea); bonus son, Marcus Hudson; grandchildren, Kylie Ponthieux (Kenny), Aaliyah Brocato, Chelsy Stilley (Jarrod), Joe Brocato, Jr. (Brittany), Jathan Brocato (Virginia), Stephanie Hitt (Tazz), Steven James (Kayla), Dylan Burlette, Logan Burlette, and Sophia Burlette; great grandchildren, Kenlie Ravare, Aiden, Gabriel, Jake, Luke, Eric, Macy, Easton, Joseph, Addaleigh, Kenzie, Lainey, and Hazley; special nieces, Melanie Lee (Dewayne) and Becca Toney (Jesse); siblings, Scooter Martin, Brenda Filasek (Larry), and Lisa Hagan (Garry); and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, extended family and friends, including her two best friends, Christy Boudreaux and Mary Kyle.

A fighter in every sense of the word, she faced every challenge placed before her with courage and determination, always coming through with quiet strength. Gentle and kind, yet strong and fierce when it mattered most, she embodied resilience. To know her was to love her, and her presence brought comfort and peace to all who were blessed to be part of her life.

She was the glue that held Christal together-her “sugarbear”-and her love for her family was the foundation on which everything stood. For many years, she selflessly served as the devoted caregiver to her husband, giving of herself with patience, compassion, and endless love.

In her downtime, she cherished spending time with her family. In recent years, her favorite moments were the simple ones-snuggling up with her grandkids and watching a movie, creating memories filled with warmth and laughter. She also found joy in reading, crocheting, cooking, and loved watching HGTC with her Sugarbear.

Above all else, she loved deeply and gave endlessly. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and all who knew her. She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered for her loving spirit, her strength, and the unconditional love she shared so freely.

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Graveside services were held on December 19, 2025 for Caleb A. Bihm, age 32, who passed away Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at his residence in Lecompte.

Interment was in First Pentecostal Cemetery of Bayou Rouge.

Caleb was a native of Opelousas; he loved to travel and was a free spirit.

Survivors included his parents, Barry Willard Bihm and Grace Ingo Bihm, of Port Barre; two brothers, Matthew Bihm of Krotz Springs, and Barry Willard Bihm, II, of Texas; three sisters, Hannah Morain and her husband, Dakota, of Port Barre, Haley Levet of La Porte, TX, and Sheree Marcotte and her husband, Will, of Lecompte.

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The Alexandria Police Department responded to the 5600 block of North Bolton Avenue on Dec. 23 around 12:57 am in reference to a single-vehicle crash involving a pedestrian. The pedestrian, 35-year-old Amanda Perry, was pronounced deceased at the scene. No impairment is suspected; however, routine toxicology tests were conducted on the driver.

This is currently an ongoing investigation.

If anyone has any information about this incident or any other type of crime in the Alexandria area, please contact the Alexandria Police Detective Division at the phone number (318) 441-6416, or APD Dispatch (318) 441-6559. You may also email information to detectives at: APDDetectives@cityofalex.com.

For a cash reward, call Crime Stoppers of CenLa at (318) 443-7867. The Crime Stoppers P3 Tipster App can also be downloaded to leave tips and get a claim number for a cash reward at http://www.p3tips.com/community/mobile.

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The Rapides Parish Police Jury announced the appropriation and allocation of state funding for multiple road improvement projects across the parish through Act 461 of the 2025 Regular Legislative Session and Act 776 of the 2024 Regular Legislative Session. The projects are funded by the State of Louisiana, with additional matching funds in select areas.

Police Jury officials expressed appreciation to Governor Jeff Landry and the Rapides Parish Legislative Delegation for their continued support of infrastructure improvements throughout Rapides Parish.

Funding approved under Act 461 of the 2025 Regular Legislative Session will support miscellaneous road repairs in the following areas:
Police Jury District C
Elmus Paul Road – $650,000
Paul Road – $200,000
Barron Chapel Road – $900,000
Kastanek Road – $210,000
Hooper Road – $600,000
Police Jury District A
Hickory Hill Road – $726,000
Oaklane Road – $451,000
Hines Road – $330,000
Police Jury District B
Baywood Drive – $85,540
Palmer Chapel Road – $140,000
Williams Lake Road – $245,000
Police Jury District H
Fish Hatchery Road – $1,600,000

In addition, the Police Jury announced funding for repairs to Philadelphia Road through the State of Louisiana Capital Outlay Program administered by the Division of Administration, Facility Planning and Control. The project is funded under Act 776 of the 2024 Regular Legislative Session, along with matching funds from Road District 2B-1 property tax collections.

The funding breakdown for Philadelphia Road includes:
Capital Outlay Act 776 (2024 RLS) – $3,450,000
Road District 2B-1 matching funds – $1,150,000
Additional Road District 2B-1 contribution – $500,000

Police Jury officials stated the funding will address much-needed repairs to parish roadways and improve transportation infrastructure for residents. Appreciation was again extended to the Rapides Parish Legislative Delegation and Governor Jeff Landry for their continued dedication to Rapides Parish.

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The Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal (SFM) has launched a renewed effort to support fire safety across the state by distributing more than 10,000 smoke alarms to fire departments. The initiative is part of Operation Save-A-Life, a program in which fire service partners install smoke alarms in homes at no cost to residents.

This program comes in response to alarming statistics: so far in 2025, 83 people have died in 64 residential fires in Louisiana, and only two of those homes had working smoke alarms. Last year, 73 people lost their lives in house fires statewide.

Residents in need of a smoke alarm are encouraged to contact their local fire department to request a free smoke alarm and installation through Operation Save-A-Life.

Fire Marshal Bill (Billy Frietch) personally delivered the smoke alarms to participating departments, emphasizing the critical role of smoke alarms in saving lives and encouraging communities to work together to protect families and neighbors.

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The City of Pineville is inviting local artists to design the official 2026 Mardi Gras Poster with a special theme celebrating the city’s Community Heart (pictured above). Artists are encouraged to creatively incorporate both sides of the heart:
Side A: The iconic “Pineville” typography and decorative flourishes.
Side B: A detailed map of historic Downtown Pineville.

Artists can integrate the map into a parade route, frame the “Pineville” script with traditional Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold, or interpret the elements in their own unique style.

The winning artist will receive a $250 cash prize and the honor of having their work represent the City of Pineville throughout the Mardi Gras season.

Submission Details:
Theme: Must incorporate the Pineville Community Heart (reference photos provided).
Format: Initial submissions should be a clear, high-quality sketch or digital draft.
Who Can Enter: Open to all local artists, students, and residents.
Deadline: January 15, 2026.

Digital Submissions: Email a photo or file of your sketch to mayor@pineville.net.

Physical Submissions: Hand-drawn sketches may be dropped off at Pineville City Hall during regular business hours.

Artists are encouraged to celebrate Pineville’s landmarks and community spirit while creating a vibrant Mardi Gras masterpiece.

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As families across Louisiana prepare to celebrate the Christmas and New Year holidays, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is urging motorists to make safe decisions behind the wheel during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

December is consistently one of Louisiana’s higher months for traffic fatalities, driven by a combination of increased travel, holiday events, and risky behaviors such as impaired driving, speeding, and failure to wear seat belts.

“Holiday celebrations should never end in tragedy,” said DOTD Secretary Glenn Ledet. “I encourage every driver to slow down, buckle up, and never drive impaired. By making smart choices and looking out for one another, we can all arrive safely and enjoy a happy and healthy holiday season.”

DOTD Offers the Following Safety Reminders:

Never drive impaired. Alcohol, drugs, and prescription medications can affect driving ability.
Buckle up—every seat, every trip. Seat belts remain one of the most effective ways to prevent death in a crash.
Slow down. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases crash severity.
Eliminate distractions. Put phones away and keep full attention on the road.
Plan ahead. Designate a sober driver or arrange alternative transportation if celebrating.
DOTD encourages all motorists to take extra precautions during the Christmas and New Year holidays, especially with extended travel periods expected this year due to the holiday falling closer to the weekend.

“Let’s make safety part of every holiday plan,” Secretary Ledet added. “From my family to yours, I wish all Louisianans a Merry Christmas and a safe, Happy New Year.”

For more information on highway safety initiatives, visit dotd.la.gov or destinationzerodeaths.com.

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Graveside services for Mr. Cecil Ray Renfrow will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 26, 2025, at Greenwood Memorial Park, Pineville, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Mr. Renfrow, 75, of Pineville, entered eternal rest on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at Oak Haven Community Care Center, Center Point, LA.

He adored cats, especially his beloved, “Baby Girl.” He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Willie Lee Renfrow; and one brother, Gene Renfrow.

Those left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory include one niece, Trish Sikorski (Bill) of Pineville; one great nephew, Sean Sikorski; and one great niece, Kayli Sikorski (Brock).

A time of visitation will be held at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, on Friday, December 26, 2025, from 12:00 noon until time of service.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are: Jay Clarius, Sean Sikorski, Brock Allen, Lewis Tuma, Robert Lemoine, and Preston Lake. Honorary pallbearers will be David Paulk and Phillip Ducote.

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Mrs. Katherine King Holmes, age 84 of Winnfield, Louisiana, entered eternal rest on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Autumn Leaves Nursing Home in Winnfield, Louisiana.

Visitation for Katherine will be on Monday, December 22, 2025, from 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm at Bethel Church of Christ in Calvin, Louisiana. Services will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at the church with Pastor Author Robinson officiating. There will be additional visitation held prior to funeral services beginning at 10:00 am. Burial will follow at Bolton Teagle Cemetery in Winnfield, Louisiana.

Katherine is preceded in death by her husband, Bill Holmes; sons, Jeffery Bruce Holmes and Charles Phillip Holmes; parents, Johnnie W. and Alma Eloise Thompson King; and sisters, LaJaun Austin and Peggy King.

Those left to celebrate and cherish her memories are her children, William Steven Holmes (Denise), John Perry Holmes (Phyllis), and Edward Vincent Holmes; daughter, Kathy Yvonne Terrell; daughter-in-law, Tammy Holmes; grandchildren, Kristy, Trina, Seth, Heather, Derrick, Sara, Jordan, Chip, and Hunter; fourteen great grandchildren; and six great great grandchildren.

Katherine was born March 8, 1941, in Winnsboro, Louisiana to Johnnie and Alma King. She was one of three daughters. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend and will be missed by all that knew and loved her.

Honored to serve as pallbearers will be Steve Holmes, Perry Holmes, Seth Holmes, Derrick Holmes, Jeremy Davis, and Elijah Holmes.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that the northbound inside (left) lane of I-49 northbound in Rapides Parish, approximately one mile north of Exit 61 (Meeker/Turkey Creek), is closed.

This lane closure is necessary due to a crash involving an 18-wheeler that impacted a bridge piling along I-49.

This lane will remain closed until repairs can be conducted, which is anticipated to be several weeks. A more specific time frame will be available once the bridge inspected is conducted and a repair plan is formalized.

Restrictions/Permits: Oversized loads are to detour utilizing US 71. All other vehicles – no detour is necessary.

Alternate Route: N/A

Safety reminder:

DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment. Remember to leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front of you.

Area residents should exercise caution when driving, walking, or biking near an active construction zone.

Additional information:

Call 511, visit http://www.511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app for additional travel information. Out-of-state travelers may call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website at http://www.dotd.la.gov, by selecting MyDOTD, or by visiting the DOTD Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.

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The Children’s Advocacy Network recognized the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, Warden Goudeau, Warden Winegeart, and employees of Rapides Parish Detention Center III for their donation to the organization’s Christmas Toy Drive on Dec. 18.

The contribution supported the Children’s Advocacy Network’s mission to help heal and advocate for abused and neglected children throughout Central Louisiana. Organization representatives expressed appreciation for the continued partnership and community support shown by the Sheriff’s Office and detention center staff.

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Rapides Parish 4-H Junior Leaders volunteered at The Good Food Project on December 18, where they worked to remove weeds and plant brussel sprouts as part of a community service effort.

Following their work in the garden, the students were recognized with a Christmas party at the 4-H office in appreciation of their dedication and commitment to making a positive impact in the community.

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A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Kim Marie Collins, age 58 of Colfax, Louisiana entered eternal rest on Thursday, December 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, service, and unwavering love for her family.

Services honoring Kim took place on Dec. 21 at the Gallagher Funeral Home.

Pallbearers honored to serve were Casey Collins, Patrick Panzica, William T. John Hall, Kevin Deville, Randy Holt, and David Brown.

Kim is preceded in death by her sons, Jefferey Paul Hall and Brian Dell Collins; granddaughter, Destiny Collins, and parents, William John Hall, II and Toni Holt (Sam).

Those left to cherish her memories are her husband, William Collins; sons, Cody Collins, Patrick Panzica, and Casey Collins (Lacy); daughters, Rebecca Walker and Melissa Perry (Jimmy); brothers, T. John Hall (Andrea), Kevin Deville (Sarah), Randall Holt (Christine), Troy Holt, Ricky Holt, and Chris Holt; sisters, Elisa Bermudez (Francisco) and Elonda Deville; ; eight grandchildren; and four great grandchildren.

Kim’s life was defined by a profound calling to care for others. She built her career from the ground up, beginning as a CNA while she worked her way through nursing school. After becoming an LPN, she served in various nursing homes before finding her true niche in mental health. During her years at Crossroads Regional and Oceans Behavioral Hospitals, she became a pillar of the staff, remembered for her gentle spirit and the genuine dignity she offered every patient in her care. Beyond the hospital walls, Kim spent her summers as a steady, kind presence at 4-H Camp Grant Walker, where she left an enduring mark on the lives of countless children. In her quieter moments, she found peace and joy in fishing, appreciating the calm of the water and the simple beauty of nature. Above all else, she cherished her family, who were the center of her world. Her greatest joy came from time spent with her loved ones, especially her grandbabies, whom she adored beyond measure.

She will be remembered for her warm smile, generous heart, and the countless ways she made others feel cared for and valued. Her absence leaves a profound void, but her love and example will live on in all who were fortunate enough to know her.

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James Potter, age 76, passed away on December 20, 2025, in Houston, Texas.

Born on January 7, 1949, in Pineville, Louisiana, James was the beloved son of Edgar Potter and Alma Marie Bruney Potter. Known for his warm personality and remarkable ability to remember everyone and their families, James never met a stranger and touched the lives of many in his community.

James held a state track record in 1968 and could still ride a bike backward, a testament to his playful spirit and enduring energy. He was a determined family man, loving, loyal, tough, funny, and strong in his faith-a true walking encyclopedia who was always ready to share his wisdom and humor.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Jackie Potter of LeBlanc; his children, Jamie Potter and wife Gail of Kinder, Louisiana, Jason Potter and wife Lisa of Cynthiana, Kentucky, Jon Potter and wife Gena of LeBlanc, Louisiana, Jenny Potter of Arizona, and Jessica Potter of Bridge City, Texas. James was a proud grandfather to eleven grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. He is also survived by siblings Lana Davis and Bobby Potter, along with a large extended family and many cherished friends.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Alma Marie Potter; siblings, Benny Potter and Carl Hardin; brothers-in-law, George Davis and Johnny Lee Dillon; and mother-in-law, Florence Nichols.
James Potter will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his kindness, laughter, and strength of character. He leaves behind a legacy of faith and friendship that will be cherished by all who knew him.

The family will receive friends Monday, December 22, 2025, from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. Visitation will resume Tuesday December 23, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 2:00 p.m., in Reed Chapel at Riley Smith & Sons, 315 N. 14th Street, Kinder, Louisiana. Pastor Jimmie White will officiate the service.

Interment will follow at Elisha Memorial Cemetery, 1-99 Murry Weatherford Road, Glenmora, Louisiana.

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Louisiana State University of Alexandria (LSUA) proudly welcomed newly installed LSU System President Dr. Wade Rousse and his Chief of Staff, Jason French, for their first official visit to an LSU regional campus. As one of the fastest-growing undergraduate institutions in the South, LSUA was honored to serve as the inaugural stop on President Rousse’s statewide tour of the LSU System. Throughout the day, Dr. Rousse engaged with university leadership, enjoyed an informative lunch with students, participated in a productive campus-wide meeting with representatives from all academic and business units, and toured LSUA’s rapidly expanding campus footprint.

A group of people posing for a photo.
LSUA continues to emerge as a standout institution within the LSU family, earning national and statewide recognition for its academic quality, student success, and commitment to serving rural and first-generation students. Recently ranked #4 Best College in Louisiana by Niche.com and #14 Best Regional College in the South by U.S. News & World Report, LSUA has also been featured in The Chronicle of Higher Education for its innovative work in expanding college access and opportunity across rural Louisiana. These accomplishments reflect LSUA’s strategic growth, record-breaking enrollment, and the deep community partnerships that continue to propel the institution forward.

President Rousse’s visit evidences the university’s essential role in the LSU System. As LSU’s only undergraduate-only institution, LSUA serves as a vital pipeline to LSU’s professional schools, sending more students than ever into fields such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, law, engineering, and allied health. Driven by effective, forward-thinking leadership and powered by engaged, student-centered faculty, LSUA is preparing the workforce that Louisiana needs while offering families an affordable, high-quality LSU degree close to home.

LSUA looks forward to continued collaboration with President Rousse and the LSU administration as the System advances its vision for higher education across the state. The university remains deeply committed to expanding educational opportunity, elevating regional prosperity, and contributing meaningfully to the collective strength of the LSU family.

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Bolton Academy recognized several of its educators during its recent Outstanding Educator Recognition Program, celebrating excellence in teaching and student support.

Kelly Michot was named Bolton Academy’s Elementary Teacher of the Year, while Gennifer Smith was recognized as Secondary Teacher of the Year. In addition, Amanda Dunbar was honored as the Rapides Parish Elementary Counselor of the Year.

School officials highlighted the dedication and hard work of the honorees, noting their continued commitment to students and the Bolton Academy community. The recognition program served as an opportunity to acknowledge the impact these educators have on students and the school as a whole.

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Members of the Kiwanis Club of Alexandria, along with CKI members, recently volunteered their time ringing bells for the Salvation Army at Kroger in Alexandria as part of the organization’s holiday fundraising efforts.

Participants helped raise funds for the Salvation Army while spreading Christmas cheer to shoppers throughout the day. Those participating included, from left to right, Braylen Byrd, Gracymay Byrd, Mary Byrd, president of the Kiwanis Club of Alexandria, Ayla Zeibo and Jacey Kirklin. Patsy Shaw also participated but was not pictured.

Club members noted that the event was an enjoyable way to give back to the community during the holiday season while supporting the Salvation Army’s mission.

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It is with profound sadness yet a sense of gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Debra Gail Thomas. Born on June 28, 1955, in Pineville, Louisiana, Debra was a ray of light in the lives of many, a woman whose spirit shone brightly and touched the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her. Her vibrant personality was as radiant as the earthtone colors she loved, reflecting her grounded nature and love for life.

Debra’s life was a testament to selfless service to others. In her career as a Registered Nurse, she extended her kind heart and healing hands to countless patients, embodying the essence of compassionate care. Debra’s passion for helping others didn’t end with her professional life; she was also an active member of the City Choir, touching people with the harmonious blend of her melodious voice. Away from work, Debra had a love for the simple pleasures of life. She found joy in playing Bingo, the mental challenge of Sudoku and word puzzles, and the friendly competition of a good game of Scrabble. She also had a fondness for shopping, always finding the perfect item to brighten up her day or to gift her loved ones.

As we mourn the loss of Debra, we celebrate the wonderful person she was and the remarkable life she led. We invite you to join us in honoring her life. A public viewing and visitation will be held at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 11 16th & Day Streets, Alexandria, Louisiana, 71301, on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 10:00 am. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 am at the same venue. Her final resting place will be at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, 4000 Monroe Highway, Ball, Louisiana, 71405.

We encourage those who were touched by Debra to share their memories and upload photos to her memorial page. Let us remember Debra not with tears, but with the joy and warmth she brought into our lives, the lessons she taught us, and the love she shared with us all.

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Jaymie Dell Edwards, age 61, entered eternal rest on Friday, December 5, 2025, in Sabine Parish.
Services were held with interment following in Forest Lawn Memorial Park.

He was preceded in death by parents, Milton Carlaine Edwards, and Eva Jewel Weatherford Edwards, grandparents, George Lee Edwards and Anna Edwards.

Those left to cherish his memory include his children, Jennifer Edwards, Janet Edwards, and Jeremy Edwards; siblings, Larry Edwards (Erica), Darrell L. Edwards (Vicky), Susan Edwards (Andy), and Mark Edwards (Marilyn); numerous grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Jaymie was a loving father, brother, uncle, and friend. He worked for many years as a Meat Market Manager for different stores before becoming a Structural Welder. Jaymie enjoyed the outdoors spending time hunting, fishing, and being with his animals. Jaymie always had a joke or funny comment ready to go whenever you would see him. He will forever be missed by those that loved and knew him.

Pallbearers honored to serve were Brent Edwards, Billy Meher, Darrell Edwards, Barry Edwards, Patrick Edwards, and Bradley Edwards.

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