Alexandria budget projects General Fund dollar dip

By JIM BUTLER

Arthur Laffer once said there was no Santa Claus working in the US Treasury. He’s evidently not in the City of Alexandria Finance office either.

A public hearing will be held Tuesday afternoon on Mayor Jacques Roy’s proposed budget that includes projected General Fund revenue of $70.2 million, about $16 million less than the current fiscal year expectation.

Roy’s budget message notes conditions which create uncertainties in revenue projections, requiring what he terms austere spending for the year beginning May 1.

The plan does include across-the-board pay adjustments and does not factor any City Council action on Utility System rates, as sure a forecast as Tiger Woods having his driver’s license suspended.

Tax revenue (sales and property) is expected to drop $3 million, to $39.5 million.

Other categories include intergovernmental transfers, use of fund balance, use of retained earnings, down about $11.5 million. 

On the spending side, public safety drops $1.5 million to $35.5 million, public works $6 million to $11.9 million, interfund transfers $9 million to $2.4 million. 

The Utility System Fund is expected to generate $113.1 million, up $4 million from the current year. Expenses are set at $62 million. Fuel adjustment charges above the base, 40-year-old rate are pass-along revenue, from the city to its supplier.


Weatherization program offers free energy efficiency services for North and Central Louisiana residents

The Weatherization Assistance Program is providing no-cost energy efficiency services to income-eligible households across North and Central Louisiana through local administration by the LaSalle Community Action Association, with support from the Louisiana Housing Corporation and the U.S. Department of Energy.

The program, known as WAP, is the largest residential energy efficiency initiative in the country. It is designed to help households with limited income reduce energy costs by improving a home’s overall energy performance at no cost to participants. The program operates nationwide, providing funding to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Native American tribes and U.S. territories, and serves approximately 35,000 homes each year.

Locally, the program helps residents save energy, lower utility bills and stay comfortable year-round. Services available may include insulation and air sealing, energy-efficient lighting and appliance upgrades, and basic health and safety checks.

The Weatherization Assistance Program serves a wide range of households, including seniors, individuals with disabilities and families. Both homeowners and renters may apply, though renters must have landlord approval. Applicants must also meet income eligibility guidelines.

The program serves multiple parishes throughout the region, including Rapides, Caddo, Ouachita, Lincoln, Jackson, Caldwell, Grant, Winn, Madison, Concordia, Catahoula, Franklin, Richland, Tensas, LaSalle, West Carroll and East Carroll parishes.

Officials say the program not only helps reduce financial strain for residents but also improves home comfort and safety by addressing energy efficiency issues.

The LaSalle Community Action Association is currently accepting applications for the program. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and provide a valid photo ID, Social Security card, proof of income, recent utility bills and documentation from the property owner if applicable.

Those interested can apply or seek assistance by contacting the organization at its Ferriday office, located at 107 E.E. Wallace Boulevard, by calling (318) 757-9213, or by emailing erikaw.lcaa@gmail.com. Additional information is also available online at lhc.la.gov/weatherization.


Pineville warrants cleared after arrest by Alexandria Police; suspect faces 27 charges and $862,000 bond

The Pineville Police Department announced that all active warrants for a previously featured wanted subject have been cleared following her arrest by another agency.

According to the department, the suspect, identified as Lauren Ebert, was highlighted during Valentine’s week as a wanted individual with eight active warrants at the time. The social media post gained significant attention, being shared more than 100 times and reaching tens of thousands of viewers.

Authorities stated that while Pineville officers were unable to locate her, the Alexandria Police Department ultimately made the arrest. As a result, all Pineville warrants have now been resolved.

Officials reported that Ebert was booked on a total of 27 charges, with bond set at $862,000. She is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Investigators also indicated they do not believe she acted alone. Authorities said that if probable cause is established regarding the sale or distribution of stolen property connected to the case, additional investigations will be pursued and others involved could face charges.


Two murder charges, more accusations draw $2 million bail for Alexandria suspect

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

April 5

Jason Damion Battiste Jr., 34, Alexandria – vehicular negligent injuring, OWI fourth offense, simple escape, careless operation, driving under suspension, resisting an officer, contempt of court, $3,200 bail;

Devonte Dwaine Braggs, 25, Pineville – domestic abuse battery, parish probation violation, contempt of court, $1,000 bail;

Jennifer Keandria Poullard, 28, Oakdale – OWI first offense, open container, driving under suspension, headlamps required, no bail data.

April 4

Brandon Dewayne Buxton, 36, Elizabeth – three counts contempt of court, $75,000 bail;

Derrick Dewayne King, 44, Alexandria – aggravated assault with a firearm, no bail data;

Peyton Joeseph Megison, 23, Colfax – OWI first offense, signal lamps, expired MVI sticker, $1,200 bail;

Michael Scott Newell, 58, Shreveport – failure to timely register as sex offender, expired MVI sticker, expired plate/registration, $200 bail;

Willie Allen Slayton, 63, Leesville – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail;

Shawna C. Thompson, 41, Pineville – criminal damage to property, three counts contempt of court, $30,500 bail;

Coby Aaron Whatley, 24, Deville – possession of marijuana, contempt of court, $2,500 bail.

April 3

Lauren Ellen Ebert, 35, Alexandria – 11 counts theft (second/subsequent conviction), three counts criminal conspiracy, 12 counts contempt of court, $862,000 bail;

Jeffery Cortez Cross, 28, Alexandria – two counts contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Ryan Joseph Harrell, 31, Alexandria – self-mutilation of a prisoner, possession of synthetic CDS, burglary of inhabited dwelling, $6,500 bail;

Keith A. Reynolds, 39, Alexandria – theft, theft of a motor vehicle, violation of protective orders, home invasion, domestic abuse battery, $500 bail;

Bobby Robert Roberts, 71, Alexandria – possession of CDS, operating a vehicle under suspension for certain prior offenses, three counts contempt of court, $3,500 bail;

Cody Steven Smith, 36, Alexandria – criminal damage to property, illegal possession of stolen things, $2,000 bail.

April 2

Kelvin G. Atkins, 34, Alexandria – three counts contempt of court, $15,000 bail;

Jennifer Ann Brossette, 48, Pineville – simple burglary, no bail data;

Gregory Keith Brown, 55, Alexandria – sex offender failure to renew registration, contempt of court, unauthorized use a motor vehicle, driving under suspension, aggravated criminal damage, hit and run driving, reckless operation, failure to report an accident, $1,200 bail;

Christopher S. Cotton, 22, Pineville – OWI first offense, careless operation of a vehicle, driver’s license not in possession, $1,200 bail;

Anthony Emmanuel Crawford, 44, Alexandria – aggravated assault with a firearm, disturbing the peace in violent and tumultuous manner, $10,500 bail;

Reginald Harrison, 33, Alexandria – manufacture transfer possession of machine guns, no driver’s license, possession of marijuana, obstruction of justice, possession of firearm by convicted felon, no license plate light, parole violations, $41,700 bail;

Galen Kimerla Hollingsworth, 49, Pineville – aggravated assault domestic abuse, $1,000 bail;

Suzan Danielle Jenkins, 44, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, pedestrians on highways, two counts contempt of court, $14,100 bail;

Robert Earl Newman Jr., 45, Alexandria – two counts contempt of court, violation of protective order, $50,250 bail;

Eric Paul Nichols, 46, Pineville – criminal damage to property, criminal trespass, $5,500 bail;

Dacora Porter, 17, Ferguson, Missouri – two counts aggravated battery of healthcare professional, $2,000 bail;

Alfred Rue IV, 27, Alexandria – two counts second degree murder, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, criminal conspiracy, taking contraband to and from penal institutions, $2.015 million bail;

McNeal Sanders, 27, Alexandria – carnal knowledge of a juvenile, home invasion, resisting an officer, aggravated battery of a dating partner, home invasion, aggravated battery, two counts contempt of court, probation violation, simple battery, $80,500 bail;

Colby Daniel Vance II, 34, Ball – two counts Louisiana fugitive, aggravated assault with a firearm, improper window tint, 10 counts contempt of court, $15,200 bail.

April 1

Michael Gerard Carr, 60, Alexandria – possession of CDS, simple arson, simple burglary, injury by arson, two counts contempt of court, $18,000 bail;

Darrell Craig Johnson, 38, Ball – two counts violations of protective orders, $6,500 bail;

Tralexcia Mylashana Johnson, 19, Alexandria – three counts simple assault, criminal damage to property, unlawful communication harassing, $2,500 bail;

Julius Byron Layfield, 45, Alexandria – vehicular homicide, DWI, hit and run serious injury, negligent injuring – first degree vehicular, $300,000 bail;

Justin Wayne Page, 46, Boyce – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $2,000 bail;

Shanna Ann Pittman, 41, Pineville – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $2,000 bail;

Chad Dewayne Pruitt, 53, Pineville – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, contempt of court, $102,000 bail;

Mark Neville Roberts, 57, Marksville – possession of CDS, no driver’s license, switched license plate, expired registration, no insurance, two counts contempt of court, $51,900 bail;

Franklin Kevin Smith, 57, Pineville – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $2,000 bail;

Antoine Deshown Tuco, 34, Alexandria – theft of a motor vehicle, two counts simple burglary, $30,000 bail.


Rapides Parish Fire District 12 responds to 10 calls in March

The Rapides Parish Fire District 12 responded to a total of 10 emergency calls during the month of March, according to its latest report.

The calls included two structure fires, one of which involved mutual aid, one fire alarm, three grass or brush fires, two electrical hazard or shorted circuit incidents, one vehicle fire and one motor vehicle accident.

Officials noted that the department’s response efforts were made possible by the dedication of its volunteer firefighters, who continue to serve the community when emergencies arise.


Remembering Za’niyah Ja’Nell “Niyah” Boyd

Celebrating the Life of Za’niyah Ja’Nell “Niyah” Boyd

Za’niyah Ja’Nell “Niyah” Boyd, age 11, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 5:04 p.m. at Rapides Women’s and Children’s Hospital. A bright and gifted 5th grade student at Rosenthal Montessori, Niyah took great pride in her accomplishments, including earning A/B Honor Roll and being recognized as Student of the Month.

Niyah was full of life, joy, and personality. She loved dancing, singing, drawing, learning new languages, and spending time talking with her friends. She also enjoyed Roblox, especially MM2, and had a special love for Korean and Asian culture, as well as the boy band Tomorrow X Together. Niyah loved seafood, Chick-fil-A, and her favorite snacks, and she truly never played about her food.

Public viewing and visitation will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until the start of the service at 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 11 16th Street, Alexandria, Louisiana 71301, with Pastor Roger L. Green, Sr. officiating.

Burial will follow in the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Alexandria, Louisiana.

Though her time here was far too short, Niyah’s beautiful spirit, creativity, laughter, and love will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.


Remembering Collin Michael Lacaze

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Collin Michael Lacaze, who left us far too soon on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. He was born on August 20, 2009. Collin was just 16 years old, yet he brought so much joy and light into the lives of everyone who knew him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in Collin’s honor at St. Rita Catholic Church in Alexandria at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, with Reverend Anthony “Raj” Dharmaraj and Reverend Luke LaFleur officiating. Following the service, Collin will be laid to rest in Memory Lawn Cemetery in Natchitoches at 2:30 p.m., Tuesday under the direction of Hixson Brothers, Alexandria.

Pallbearers will be Blake Foster, Thomas Huff, Kendrick Wright, Mason Jarred, James Tichner, Kane Givens, and Brendon Cyphers.

Honorary pallbearers will be the ASH Baseball team and Coaches.

While this loss is deeply felt, the family members invite all who knew and loved Collin to come together to celebrate his life. A visitation will be held at The Entertainment Center-Laborde Earles Coliseum, on Monday, April 6, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. During this time of remembrance, a Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m., bringing everyone together in love and prayer.

Collin was a vibrant young man who was currently a Junior at ASH. He was passionate about baseball playing on the winning World Series teams at 5 and 13 years old. He thrived in the moments he spent on the diamond, where his spirit and enthusiasm inspired his teammates. He was also a budding entrepreneur, having embarked on a Car Wash business that showcased his creativity, attention to detail, and drive. Collin’s determination and work ethic shone brightly in everything he pursued. He was an honor student with a 4.2 GPA and member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

In addition to his entrepreneurial spirit, Collin had a heart for the community. He dedicated his time to volunteer work, always looking for ways to lend a helping hand to those in need. He had a love for the great outdoors; fishing was one of his favorite pastimes, where he found joy and peace by the water. Collin also took great pride in his Mustang, which symbolized his adventurous nature and love for life.

Collin is survived by his loving parents, Michael Shawn and Jamie Jacobs LaCaze; brother, Luke LaCaze; grandparents, Rodney and Cathy Jacobs; grandfather, Louis LaCaze; grandmother, Cindy Harper; his constant companion and love of his life, Adelyn Francis, his dog Tucker, and numerous other family and friends.

The family wishes to thank the Rapides Hospital Trauma Department, ASH Baseball Family, Billy Doyal, Lynn Diaz, Kelli Robertson, Thomas Huff and Michelle Desoto, Madison Daigle, Beth Thibadeax, Whitney Foster, Alyssa Rachal, and Dr. Trey Jackson.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alexandria Rescue Center, ASH Baseball or M.A.D.D.

He will be deeply missed, but his light will continue to shine brightly in our memories.


Notice of Death – April 5, 2026

Arthur “Carl” Ahrens
May 27, 1943 – April 2, 2026
Service: Wednesday, April 8, 2026, 11am at St. James Episcopal Church, Alexandria.

Robert Dale Bennett, Sr.
July 5, 1946 – April 2, 2026
Service: Wednesday, April 8, 2026, 10am at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball. 

Dr. Patsy King Barber
November 1, 1926 – April 1, 2026
Service: Wednesday, April 8, 2026, 11am at Kramer & Son Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Za’Niyah Ja’Nell Boyd
April 15, 2014 – April 1, 2026
Service: Saturday, April 18, 2026, 11am at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Alexandria. 

Collin Michael LaCaze
August 20, 2009 – April 1, 2026
Service: Tuesday, April 7, 2026, 11am at St. Rita’s Catholic Church, Alexandria.

Melvin Herbert Walker
July 31, 1934 – March 31, 2026
Service: Saturday, April 11, 2026, 1pm at Our Lady Of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, Alexandria.

John Morgan Brewer
January 28, 1943 – March 30, 2026
Service: Tuesday, April 7, 2026, 11am at St. James Episcopal Church, Alexandria.

Terri Lynn McGinty
July 26, 1957 – March 30, 2026
Service: Tuesday, April 7, 2026, 3pm at Magnolia Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Greg Havard
June 16, 1963 – March 28, 2026
Service: Wednesday, April 8, 2026, 1pm at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

James Dewayne Wilson
December 31, 1963 – March 25, 2026
Service: Thursday, April 9, 2026, 11am at Mt. Hermon Baptist Church, Lena. 

Myrtis Patricia Jones Breda
September 6, 1938 – March 20, 2026
Service: Saturday, April 11, 2026, 11am at True Vine Baptist Church, Alexandria. 

John Calvit Edwards
April 25, 1953 – March 18, 2026
Service: Saturday, April 11, 2026, 1pm at Amiable Baptist Church, Glenmora. 

Concetta Sotile Fiorenza
July 21, 1924 – March 11, 2026
Service: Friday, May 15, 2026, 10am at Our Lady Of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, Alexandria.

The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or RPJNewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Death shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to RPJNewsla@gmail.com.)

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April 3, 2026

Fatal hit-and-run suspect under $300,000 bond

Collin Lacaze and Addy Francis. (Social media image)

By JIM BUTLER

Julius Layfield’s legal issues date to at least 2006, none as consequential as the current one.

Layfield, 45, of Alexandria is accused of running over and killing a teenager, critically injuring another and fleeing into the night.

He was arrested Wednesday and charged with three felony counts in the death of Collin Lacaze and the injuring of Addy Francis, both 16.

Mayfield remained in lockup Thursday under $300,000 bond, a much-discussed amount on social media with the “too lows” clearly the predominant opinion.

Authorities have not yet said why the youths were standing on the side of Eddie Williams Avenue, a relatively short distance from Layfield’s residence on Richland Road, or whether others were at the scene near Tulane Avenue.

Eddie Williams is a relatively straight road paralleling the east side of I49 from Broadway to beyond Sugarhouse Road.  

Readily available records show Layfield, a Pollock resident at the time, was charged in Terrebonne Parish with felony possession of a Schedule IV Controlled Dangerous Substance in July 2006.

Disposition of that case is not readily available online, a normal operating procedure in clerks of court offices.

Rapides deputies booked Layfield, then of Alexandria, on a trespassing charge in 2014.

In 2017, then living in Pollock,  he was arrested by Grant deputies and charged with possession of crystal meth, probation violation and an outstanding warrant in Rapides.

The parole charge indicates a Department of Corrections sentence at some point.

 Rapides arrested him on a contempt count in May 2021. Layfield was held under $100,000 bond and subsequently arrested on a parole violation charge and released to DOC.


Key carbon capture bill killed in House committee; fight moves to Senate

A Pineville lawmaker’s effort to strip private companies of eminent domain authority over carbon capture projects is dead in the House following a contentious committee vote Tuesday, though two companion measures giving Rapides Parish and all Louisiana parishes a vote on carbon sequestration projects remain alive — and property rights advocates say the fight is moving to the Senate.

House Bill 7, the Louisiana Landowners Protection Act authored by House Speaker Pro Tempore Mike Johnson (R-Pineville), failed 12-7 in the House Committee on Natural Resources and Energy after a nearly five-hour standing-room-only hearing packed with landowners and lobbyists. Crowd outbursts prompted the committee chairman to call for order multiple times.

HB 7 would have repealed a 2020 state law allowing private companies to use eminent domain to acquire easements over private property for carbon capture and CO2 pipeline infrastructure. Johnson, who voted for the 2020 law, said he now regrets that vote. “I didn’t ask enough questions. I didn’t ask any questions,” Johnson said. “Now that’s a contradiction against our U.S. and Louisiana constitutions we have to correct.”

Industry groups testified against the bill, with Louisiana Chemical Association President and CEO David Cresson warning that industrial projects tied to carbon capture in the state are valued at over $100 billion. “Louisiana’s competing directly with Texas, Mississippi and others for that capital,” Cresson said.

HB 7 is the first of more than 20 carbon capture bills filed this session to receive a committee hearing. Two companion bills by Johnson remain pending without a hearing date — HB 6, which would give Rapides Parish governing authorities a vote on whether CCS projects may proceed in the parish, and HB 5, which would extend that same authority statewide.

The 2026 legislative session continues through June 1.


Ruby-Kolin Fire Department reports surge in March call volume

The Ruby-Kolin Fire Department responded to 42 calls for service in March, logging a total of 285 hours on incidents, according to its latest monthly report.

That total accounts for nearly 38 percent of the entire month, or approximately 11 full days spent actively serving the community.

Call types for March included 15 medical calls, 11 grass and wildland fires, five dispatched and cancelled calls, three motor vehicle accidents, three public service calls, two structure fires, one kitchen fire, one fire alarm and one power line down incident.

Year-to-date, the department has responded to 137 calls, averaging about 45 calls per month. At the same point last year, the department had recorded 90 calls, reflecting a 52 percent increase in call volume.

Department officials noted that the steady rise in calls highlights the continued demand on personnel, who respond at all hours to meet the needs of the community.

The department expressed appreciation for its members’ commitment and service, emphasizing their role in maintaining consistent emergency response coverage throughout the area.


Rapides educator named finalist for Early Childhood Leader of the Year

The Rapides Parish School Board announced that Sarah Corley of the Louisiana State University at Alexandria Children’s Center has been named a finalist for Early Childhood Leader of the Year.

Corley is part of the Rapides Early Childhood Network, where her leadership plays a key role in supporting early learning and development for young students across the parish.

School officials say the recognition highlights ongoing efforts to ensure children receive a strong educational foundation in their earliest years.

The district also recognized teacher and principal semifinalists, noting the importance of educators and leaders working together to support student success.


LCU, LSUA baseball teams score key RRAC homefield wins, wrap series today

Drake Aldridge (at right) celebrates his key two-run, second-game home run with Louisiana Christian teammates Thursday. (Photo by KYLEIGH KRAMEL, courtesy LCU Athletics)

Thursday was a very good day for the two local college baseball teams.

The No. 19 Louisiana Christian Wildcats swept a doubleheader with another of the Red River Athletic Conference’s top teams, while the LSU Alexandria Generals knocked off 10th-ranked Texas A&M-Victoria.

In a meeting of two of the four teams which entered the weekend tied for second in the conference standings, the Wildcats decided the series on Day 1 of the three-game set with Our Lady of the Lake, sweeping Thursday’s doubleheader with the Saints, 3-0 and 7-4, at Billy Allgood Field. OLOL is receiving votes in the NAIA Top 25.

Game 1 – Louisiana Christian 3, Our Lady of the Lake 0: LCU (31-6 overall, 16-4 RRAC) rode Kade Linn’s arm to victory as he threw his second-straight complete-game shutout. Our Lady of the Lake (25-13, 14-6 RRAC) got just three hits off Linn in the opener, all from the same batter while no other Saint player reached base in the contest.

Game 2 – Louisiana Christian 7, Our Lady of the Lake 4: Drake Aldridge clubbed a two-run home run in the seventh inning to give the Wildcats the breathing room in a one-run game.

The teams finish the series today at noon at Billy Allgood Field.

LSUA 7, A&M-Victoria 5: Dalton Wilson’s sixth home run of the season, a fifth-inning grand slam, combined with a quality start from Michael Sutton Thursday as the Generals upset the 10th-ranked visitors.

Sutton earned the win after 6.2 innings on the bump. He allowed five runs on four hits and four walks. He struck out a pair. Sutton allowed just one run through the first six innings of play.

The Generals (27-10, 15-4 RRAC) led the Jaguars (27-10, 16-3) from the opening frame.  Wilson’s clout made it 6-1 LSUA.

The teams play a noon doubleheader today at Generals Baseball Field in Lecompte.


Wayne Hedricks Road to close temporarily Monday for bridge repairs

The Rapides Parish Police Jury has announced a temporary road closure for bridge repairs on Wayne Hedricks Road.

The closure is scheduled for Monday, April 6 from 9 a.m. until noon. Officials noted that the work is weather permitting and could be affected by unforeseen complications.

Drivers are advised to plan alternate routes during the closure period.


Rapides Parish authorities locate person of interest in Tioga attempted kidnapping investigation

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office has located a person of interest in connection with an attempted kidnapping investigation in Tioga, according to an update released Wednesday. The investigation remains ongoing.

The case began on March 31 at approximately 7:30 p.m., when patrol deputies from the Tioga Substation responded to a report of suspicious activity in the 1500 block of Edwards Road.

Upon arrival, deputies made contact with the complainants, who reported that a man approached several children playing in the area and allegedly attempted to lure them to his vehicle by offering to show them puppies. The children fled and alerted their parents, who confronted the suspect before he left the scene.

Deputies conducted a search of the area at the time but were unable to locate the vehicle.

Detectives with the Criminal Investigation Division at the Tioga Substation have been investigating the incident as an attempted kidnapping. Authorities previously described the suspect as a male believed to be between 28 and 35 years old, traveling alone in a blue four-door Honda Accord.

Officials thanked the public for its assistance and stated that additional updates will be released as more information becomes available.


Remembering John Morgan Brewer, Sr.

The Rite of Burial of the Dead with Holy Eucharist will be celebrated for John Morgan Brewer, Sr. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. James Episcopal Church with The Rev. Canon John D. Bedingfield officiating. Interment will follow in Phythian Cemetery, Bunkie, under the direction of John Kramer & Son Funeral Home. 

Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of service on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at St. James Episcopal Church. 

John Morgan Brewer, Sr., 83, of Alexandria, passed away on Monday, March 30, 2026, at Rapides Regional Medical Center. 

John is preceded in death by his father, Chester Morgan; parents, Frank and Joyce Brewer; and sister, Charlotte Brewer Ruth. 

John Brewer, Sr. will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Born and raised in Alexandria, he attended Bolton High School before earning his Bachelor of Business Administration from Louisiana Tech University and his Master’s in Urban and Regional Planning from Texas A&M University.

John proudly served his country as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy during the Vietnam Conflict. Known for his playful spirit, he was a natural jokester who loved teasing others and making people laugh with his antics. He found great joy in simple pleasures by relaxing on his front porch on Albert Street, sipping cocktails, enjoying a cigar, and spending time with his beloved dog, George.

An avid reader, John had a particular interest in history and books about war. He dedicated many years of his professional life to the Rapides Area Planning Commission, where he contributed to the design and development of city streets and local businesses.

John will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Delores Dean Brewer; son, John Morgan Brewer, Jr. (Robyn); daughter, Ann-Aldridge Brewer; grandson, John Morgan Brewer, III; siblings, Gordon Brewer (Ginger), David Brewer (Emmie), Steven Brewer (Margaret), Carolee Brink (John), Walter Brewer (Debbie) and Frances Brewer Jordon; 14 nieces and nephews and many extended family and friends. 

Pallbearers honored to serve will be Gordon Brewer, David Brewer, Steven Brewer, Walter Brewer, Richard Louis Dean, and Sam Bejach.

John cherished his friendships throughout his life; some remain with us, while others have passed on. The following gentlemen are recognized as honorary pallbearers, both those still living and those who preceded John in death; Kit Provine, Bob Huthnance, Joe Doss, Dick Fowler, Ned Randolph, Frank Bolton, Al Shapiro, Albin Provosty and Ken Hollis. 

Charitable donations in John’s memory can be mailed to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516. 

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the 6th floor nursing staff at Rapides Regional Medical Center for the compassion, care, and support they provided to John and the entire Brewer family.

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


Remembering Jennifer Aguilar

Jennifer Aguilar, 56, of Woodworth, LA, passed away on March 29, 2026. Born on September 19, 1969, in New Orleans, Jennifer was the beloved spouse of Darryl Aguilar (married for 31 years) and fantastic mother to her children: Christopher, Meredith, and William Aguilar, and her beloved bulldogs, Margie and Manley. She is the loving daughter of Janice Donnaway Held and the late Robert Joseph Held Sr. and sister to Melissa Held Oliver (John Oliver), Christine Held Harper (Glenn Harper), and the late Robert Held Jr. Jennifer is also survived by her nieces and nephews: Libby, Sam, and Maddy Oliver and Marie, Michael, and Joseph Harper, and many loving cousins and friends.

Prior to becoming a mother, Jennifer taught English at St. Rita of Cascia School in Harahan, LA. Jennifer will be remembered for her outgoing personality, humor, laughter, sharp mind, generosity, and being a great role model for her children. She loved spending time with her family, friends, and pets, going to the Gulf Coast and traveling, gardening, and being in nature. Jennifer will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Garden of Memories Funeral Home with visitation starting at 12:00 noon and a Memorial Mass at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CENLA Alliance for Animals at http://www.cenlaallianceforanimals.com or Ochsner Health at http://www.ochsner.org. Online condolences may be offered at http://www.gardenofmemoriesmetairie.com.


Word of the Day: Hornswoggle

Phonetic: /horn·swog·gle/

Part of Speech: Verb

Definition

  • get the better of (someone) by cheating or deception.
    “you mean to say you were hornswoggled?”

Notice of Death – April 2, 2026

Robert Dale Bennett, Sr.
July 5, 1946 – April 2, 2026
Service: Wednesday, April 8, 2026, 10am at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball. 

Judy Arlene Littleton
July 29, 1950 – March 31, 2026
Service: Friday, April 3, 2026, 10am at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball. 

Melvin Herbert Walker
July 31, 1934 – March 31, 2026
Service: Saturday, April 11, 2026, 1pm at Our Lady Of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, Alexandria.

John Morgan Brewer
January 28, 1943 – March 30, 2026
Service: Tuesday, April 7, 2026, 11am at St. James Episcopal Church, Alexandria.

Terri Lynn McGinty
July 26, 1957 – March 30, 2026
Service: Tuesday, April 7, 2026, 3pm at Magnolia Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Charles Raymond Erwin
September 14, 1942 – March 29, 2026
Service: Saturday, April 4, 2026, 10am at Main Street Mission, Pineville.

Greg Havard
June 16, 1963 – March 28, 2026
Service: Wednesday, April 8, 2026, 1pm at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Rita Gayle Byrd
October 11, 1964 – March 27, 2026
Service: Saturday, April 4, 2026, 11am at True Believers, Alexandria. 

Margie Nell Lucas
March 1, 1952 – March 25, 2026
Service: Friday, April 3, 2026, 10am at Kramer & Son Funeral Home, Alexandria.

James Dewayne Wilson
December 31, 1963 – March 25, 2026
Service: Thursday, April 9, 2026, 11am at Mt. Hermon Baptist Church, Lena. 

Myrtis Patricia Jones Breda
September 6, 1938 – March 20, 2026
Service: Saturday, April 11, 2026, 11am at True Vine Baptist Church, Alexandria. 

John Calvit Edwards
April 25, 1953 – March 18, 2026
Service: Saturday, April 11, 2026, 1pm at Amiable Baptist Church, Glenmora. 

Concetta Sotile Fiorenza
July 21, 1924 – March 11, 2026
Service: Friday, May 15, 2026, 10am at Our Lady Of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, Alexandria.

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April 2, 2026