Christ and community were celebrated Thursday evening at the inauguration ceremony for Louisiana Christian University’s 10^th President Dr. Mark Johnson.

Dr. Tommy Kiker, chair of the Board of Trustees, delivered the Inaugural Oath and Installment, and said Johnson came to LCU at a time of “sacred intersection of calling and responsibility.”

“You are called to lead the university into the future with conviction and courage,” Kiker said. “Lead LCU to flourish for generations to come.”

The invocation was offered by Johnson’s father Dr. Henry L. Johnson III, along with a scripture by his youngest son, Benjamin. 

Dr. Jamie Dew, president of the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, delivered the keynote address and the Presidential Charge. 

“When I first met you, I knew immediately you would be president somewhere of something,” Dew said, remarking on Johnson’s “energy, charisma, leadership and charm.”

Dew encouraged Johnson to “keep your heart and your life right before God” as positions of power or attention can corrupt. “Love the Lord Jesus with all your heart.”

“Every aspect of the school is under your purview,” Dew said. “Some things are heavy, but don’t lose sight of the most important work. That’s people. Your students are your actual work.”

The focus of the evening, however, wasn’t just about Johnson and the university, but about the community coming together to celebrate a collective spirit of cooperation—and moving into the future in unity.

Members from the religious, educational, political and business communities spoke, offering both congratulations, thanks and encouragement to Johnson and his wife, Heather.

They included Executive Director of Louisiana Baptists Dr. Steve Horn, Senior Pastor of Franklin Avenue Baptist Church of New Orleans Fred Luter, President Emeritus of NOBTS Dr. Chuck Kelley, Rapides Parish School Board Superintendent Dr. Jeff Powell, retired President of Washington and Jefferson College Dr. John Knapp, State Representative Mike Johnson, Pineville City Councilman Nathan Martin and Central Louisiana Chamber of Commerce President Deborah Randolph.

“We welcome and interlock with you,” Powell said. “Besides a relationship with God, education is the only other thing that can’t be taken away from them [students.].”

Rep. Johnson, a 1981 alumnus of the university, delivered a blessing and a commendation from Gov. Jeff Landry and the State House of Representatives, who voted unanimously to commemorate the day in honor of Johnson’s inauguration. 

Martin, who also graduated from Louisiana College, spoke on behalf of Pineville Mayor Joe Bishop and the City Council. 

“This university has shaped the character and the values of the community,” he said. “The future is full of opportunity, and the city of Pineville stands with you as a committed partner.”

Randolph remarked on the energy and commitment to partnerships that she has already seen demonstrated since he took office.

“Your vision for Louisiana Christian University has generated excitement in the business community,” she said. “You love what you do, and it shows. Your faith, vitality and mission are ushering in a new era at this university.”

Heather Johnson spoke, thanking all who spoke and all who attended for their prayers and support, calling it “humbling” to have so many people who have welcomed them to campus and the community.

Lastly, Johnson spoke, citing Proverbs 3:5-6. “Love the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.”  

He said he takes his presidential calling seriously while acknowledging the role the community plays in LCU’s success. He remarked that he is following in the footsteps of some pioneers of Christian higher education, noting former Louisiana College President G. Earl Guinn, who worked to integrate faith seamlessly into academics.

Johnson said he will lead LCU to help fulfill needs that exist in the community, building on what he sees as a strong foundation. 

This area has the strongest education community I’ve ever been around,” he said, also remarking, “the business leaders are looking to us to produce leaders for the workforce. Louisiana Christian University is still here, and God has plans in store.”

Music was provided by a community choir from First Baptist Church in Pineville, Kingsville Baptist Church, Philadelphia Baptist Church, the Citywide Choir of Alexandria and LCU Chorale. Midstate Homeschool Choir presented special music. 

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The Alexandria Police Department has announced the promotion of three officers, recognizing their leadership and commitment to the community.

Robert Distefano has been promoted to captain, Tod Beaman to lieutenant, and Kerry Simmons to sergeant.

Department officials said each officer has demonstrated strong dedication and service, earning the opportunity to take on expanded leadership roles within the agency.

The promotions reflect the department’s continued focus on strengthening leadership and service to the Alexandria community.

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Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

March 29

Acario J. Dotson, 40, Pineville – two counts attempted second degree murder, two counts armed robbery, two counts possession of CDS, $1,500 bail;

Jamarion Leblanc, 19, Opelousas – OWI underage, reckless operation of a vehicle, $1,500 bail;

Blaine Loupe, 40, Deville – domestic abuse battery, resisting a police officer with force or violence, $500 bail;

Luis Onate, 29, Alexandria – OWI first offense, speeding, no driver’s license, open containers, $1,300 bail.

March 28

Kenderrick Jacoby Bell, 32, Alexandria – OWI first offense, possession of firearm by convicted felon, improper lane usage, driver’s license not in possession, $16,200 bail;

Albert Blue Blue, 46, Lecompte – contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Christopher C. Bordelon, 39, Alexandria —  aggravated battery, no bail data;

Edward Dewayne Carter, 34, Alexandria – domestic abuse with child present, aggravated assault with child endangerment, no bail data;

Danny Dwayne General, 49, Alexandria – three counts contempt of court, $46,000 bail;

Tommy Lee Hurts, 61, Alexandria – aggravated assault domestic abuse, illegal use of weapons/instrumentalities, disturbing the peace, $20,500 bail;

James Jeromy Keene, 56, Alexandria – solicitation on an interstate highway, seven counts contempt of court, $35,500 bail;

Franklin Kevin Smith, 57, Pineville – create, distribute or possess with intent counterfeit CDS, driving under suspension, modified exhaust, $1,700 bail;

Logan Stansell, 23, Alexandria – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, improper headlight equipment, driver’s license not in possession, $1,300 bail.

March 27

Jacob Hunter Ardoin, 38, Lafayette – Louisiana fugitive, possession of burglary tools, theft, $5,500 bail;

Roosevelt Bass III, 35, Ferriday – OWI first offense, speeding, $1,100 bail;

Kimberly Marshay Dunbar, 31, Alexandria – theft, domestic abuse battery, resisting police officer with force or violence, contempt of court, $12,500 bail;

Victoria Guillot, 34, Plaucheville – three counts contempt of court, $102,000 bail;

Tadarius Lemon Lott, 31, Alexandria – possession of fentanyl, paraphernalia, four counts contempt of court, $209,500 bail;

Breet Havard Lyons, 41, Pineville – OWI second offense, possession of marijuana, possession of CDS, paraphernalia, turn lamp signal, $4,100 bail;

Daniel Melder, 47, Pineville – domestic abuse battery with child present, probation violation, $25,000 bail;

Jerry Jermaine Sheppard, 36, Colfax – possession of CDS, assault on emergency personnel, disturbing the peace, contempt of court, $7,500 bail.

March 26

Urshala Aaron, 31, Boyce – cruelty to juveniles, $5,000 bail;

William Huey Johnson, 41, Pineville – battery of a dating partner, resisting an officer, $5,500 bail;

Seth Cullen Dubois, 43, Montgomery – four counts unlawful use of social networking site, Louisiana fugitive, $100,000 bail;

David Lee Dauzat Jr., 42, Alexandria – Louisiana fugitive, burglary of inhabited dwelling, possession of firearm by convicted felon, contributing to the delinquency of juveniles, parole violations, $15,500 bail;

William James Folse, 49, Pineville – two producing manufacturing distributing CDS, Louisiana fugitive, possession of marijuana, possession of synthetic cannabinoid, possession of fentanyl, possession of CDS, paraphernalia, probation violation, $121,500 bail;

William Huey Johnson, 41, Pineville – battery of a dating partner, resisting an officer, $5,500 bail;

James Thomas Moore III, Drasco, Ark. – illegal possession of stolen things, no bail data;

Jaye’den D. Sanders, 19, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery with serious injury, illegal use of weapons/dangerous instrumentalities, $50,000 bail;

David Scott, 70, Pineville – OWI second offense, speeding, $1,700 bail;

Alexis Brooke Wyllie, 32, Alexandria – home invasion, $50,000 bail.

March 25

Kelvin Lavell Craig, 62, Clarence – OWI second offense, open container, reckless operation, running a red light, $1,900 bail;

Alfred Ray Davis Jr., 41, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, five counts theft, contempt of court, $7,000 bail;

Kemon D. Lewis, 26, Ferriday – criminal conspiracy, taking contraband to and from penal institutions, contempt of court, $20,000 bail;

Nicholas Joseph Scallan, 41, Pineville – stalking, $250,000 bail;

Ashley Nichole Young, 43, Pineville – possession of CDS, theft, probation violation, contempt of court, $7,000 bail.

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Susan Diane Chelette Reed, age 70, of Pineville, Louisiana, passed away on March 27, 2026. Born on February 11, 1956, in Alexandria, Louisiana, Susan was the daughter of Lee Timothy Chelette and Julia Roshto Chelette.

Funeral services will be at Gallagher Funeral Home & Crematory on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 1:00 PM. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM and continue until the time of service. Bro. Kevin Simmons of Wayside Baptist Church, Pollock, LA will be officiating the service. Serving as pallbearers will be Steven Seale, Adam Chelette, Wesley Chelette, Luke Chelette, Eli Norris, Jayden Bridges

Susan devoted much of her life to caring for others. She worked as a Resident Training Specialist at Pinecrest State School, where she faithfully served and showed great compassion, especially in helping those with disabilities. Her caring spirit was evident not only in her work, but in every part of her life.

She had a deep love for music and was a cherished part of her family singing group. Susan also enjoyed good food and was known as an excellent cook, especially when preparing duck, which was one of her specialties. She found joy in simple pleasures such as word puzzles, adult coloring books, and spending time in church, which was a very important part of her life. Above all, she was a loving mother, aunt, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents, Lee Timothy Chelette and Julia Roshto Chelette; and by her son, Bobby Blade.

Those left to cherish her memory include her son, Anthony Brown of Pineville; her brothers, Derk and wife Sally Chelette of Colfax, Timothy and wife Karen Chelette of Colfax, and Chris and wife Vicki Chelette of Angleton, Texas; her sister, Iris “Sissy” Hollie and husband Ronald of Pineville; her beloved pet, Matilda “Mattie Cake”; as well as a host of extended family members and friends.

Susan will be remembered for her loving heart, her kindness to others, her devotion to family, and her faithful love for church and community.

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A Celebration of Life for Kevin Paul Barrett will be held at New Hope Free Methodist Church, Deville, with a visitation from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026. Graveside Services will follow at Big Island Memorial Garden at 11:00 a.m., with Brother Beau Edwards officiating. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Hixson Brothers Funeral Home of Pineville.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be Sean Fisher, Sammy Fisher, Jody Fisher, Knocky Joe Foster, Cody Barrett, and Blake Hunley. Honorary Pallbearers will be Jacob Barrett, Rabon Fisher, Chuck Lucas, and Randall Lucas.

Kevin faced many challenges throughout his life, and those who knew him remember him in their own way. As a family, we take this time to reflect on his life and to hold close the importance of grace, compassion, and peace.

He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Luther Barrett, Sr., and Mattie Barrett; maternal grandparents, Odron Fisher, and Leona Fisher; and aunts & uncles, Cody Fisher, Dora Jane Fisher, Irvin Fisher, Patsy Fisher, Claudell Lucas, and Martha Detrich.

He is survived by his parents, Irma Faye and Odis Barrett, Jr.; son, Jacob Barrett; brother, Brian Barrett (Sheri); nieces, Alexis Hunley (Blake), and Peyton Barrett; nephew, Cody Barrett, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who will remember him and the life he lived. Though his journey was not without hardship, we hope he has now found peace.

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The Rapides Parish Police Jury has announced that the Cotile Lake Study Committee meeting previously scheduled for Monday, March 30 has been cancelled.

No additional details were immediately available.

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By JIM BUTLER

Boyce Town Council members propose making police chief an appointed instead of elected position.

A motion added to the agenda during a special council meeting March 17 calls for a special election setting a referendum on the question.

Adding the item and voting to approve it was unanimous (motion by Lacretia McCoy Price, second by Leslie Aaron, ayes by Peggy Brew, Mary Fisher) as required by state law. Councilwoman Donna Lofton was absent, according to published minutes.

Chief Ronald Goudeau’s third term ends this year. Since early 2024 he has been the only department member.

The town contracted with the Sheriff’s Office to provide law enforcement, saving about $75,000 a month in the face of a budget crunch.

The council will hold a public hearing on the question at 6 p.m. April 9.

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Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has issued Executive Order No. JML 26-031 directing flags of the United States and the State of Louisiana to be flown at half-staff today, Friday, March 27, from sunrise to sunset over the State Capitol and all state buildings, in honor of former Rapides Parish Sheriff William Earl Hilton.

Hilton, 80, died March 23 following a hit-and-run incident at his Hineston-area home. He served as Rapides Parish Sheriff from 1992 to 2008 and again from 2012 to 2020, accumulating more than 50 years of law enforcement service to the parish.

A funeral service for Hilton is scheduled for noon today at Calvary Baptist Church in Alexandria.

Ladonna Delrie, 53, of Pollock, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with his death and is being held on $5.3 million bond.

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Sources: Governor Jeff Landry Executive Order No. JML 26-031, March 26, 2026; Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office; KLFY, March 26, 2026.

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UPDATE — Friday, March 27, 2026

Aviation safety records have identified the downed aircraft as a Beechcraft B200GT King Air 250, registration number N886DS, registered to an owner in California. The aircraft was destroyed on impact.

As of Thursday morning, the National Transportation Safety Board has not yet released a preliminary report, citing the difficult recovery conditions. In a statement issued Wednesday, March 25, the NTSB said it “will continue to work with the FAA who is on the ground,” adding that the agency “does not conduct the recovery efforts.” The NTSB further stated that once the aircraft has been retrieved from the swamp, the FAA will provide a damage assessment before the NTSB proceeds with its formal investigation.

The wreckage remains in the densely vegetated, swampy terrain on the west side of Lake Rodemacher — also known as Cleco Lake — near the community of Sharp, west of Boyce. The FAA has confirmed that only the pilot was aboard at the time of the crash. The pilot’s identity has not yet been officially released.

The Rapides Parish Journal will continue to monitor this story. The NTSB preliminary report will be published at ntsb.gov/investigations once the aircraft has been recovered and assessed.

Updated Sources: Aviation Safety Network, wikibase record 568289, March 2026; NTSB official statement, March 25, 2026; FAA Statements on Aviation Accidents and Incidents, faa.gov, March 2026.

 

UPDATE

The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed Monday that one person was killed in a Sunday single-ending plane crash in rural Rapides Parish.

The FAA identified the aircraft as a Beechcraft BE20 registered to a person in California and listed one fatality in its aviation incident database. The agency said only one person was aboard the plane at the time of the crash.

The aircraft came to rest near the edge of Lake Rodemacher — also known as Cleco Lake — near the community of Sharp, west of Boyce.

The National Transportation Safety Board arrived on scene Monday to lead the investigation. All further official information regarding the cause of the crash and the identity of the victim will be released through the NTSB.

ORIGINAL

BOYCE — A downed aircraft discovered Sunday afternoon in a densely wooded swamp near Cleco Lake in Rapides Parish remained inaccessible to search and rescue teams as of late Sunday evening, with the National Transportation Safety Board expected on scene Monday to lead the investigation.

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office received the initial report of a possible downed aircraft at approximately 2:33 p.m. Sunday through the Rapides Parish 911 Center. Deputies and first responders initially shifted search efforts to the Red Store Hill Road area near Boyce after residents reported the aircraft may have gone down in that vicinity.

After hours of searching, the aircraft was located at approximately 5 p.m. on the west side of Cleco Lake, also known as Lake Rodemacher, in a heavily vegetated and swampy area of forest that has made access by ground crews impossible.

As of Sunday evening, no information on the type of aircraft, the number of passengers aboard, or the condition of any occupants has been released. Search and rescue personnel had not yet reached the crash site.

RPSO Chief of Staff Tommy Carnline said the NTSB is expected to be on scene Monday, and that all further information regarding the investigation will be released through that agency.

The following agencies participated in Sunday’s search operations: Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, Louisiana State Police, Pineville Fire and Rescue, Alexandria Fire Department, Rapides Parish Fire District No. 2, Cotile Volunteer Fire Department, Flatwoods Volunteer Fire Department, Pafford Ambulance Service, Louisiana State Forestry Service, and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. The Rapides Parish 911 Center also provided assistance.

The Rapides Parish Journal will continue to follow this story as the NTSB releases additional information.

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The Master of Business Administration program at Louisiana Christian University ranks fourth in the state, according to outreachedu.org.

Rankings are based on the following criteria:

• Program reputation and competitiveness
• Accreditation and quality assurance
• Cost and affordability
• Graduation and employment outcomes
• Student experience
• Program flexibility and specializations

Dean of the Ray and Dorothy Young School of Business Dr. Marcia Hardy said the recognition reflects not only LCU’s commitment to academic excellence, but also its mission to develop principled leaders grounded in faith, integrity and service.

“We are thankful to our dedicated faculty, staff and students, as well as the individuals and communities who support us in our efforts to make this accomplishment possible,” Hardy said. “We celebrate this milestone and remain committed in our calling to shape and equip our future business graduates to lead with wisdom, excellence, and guided purpose, and to create a meaningful impact in their professional lives and communities.”

The Jonathan E. Martin MBA program launched in 2022.  The innovative program brings together the best faculty and most comprehensive classes designed for busy professionals who see business as a mission, said Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Henry Robertson.

“To be rated #4 in the state where all the other programs and schools are bigger and older is quite an honor,” Robertson said. “We have proven that quality can be built and offered for students through a Christian perspective.

“Our curriculum will both challenge and enrich students who are ready for their next career enhancement. We hope leadership will send their best and brightest to stay current on the emerging economic trends and be informed by the Christian faith.” 

The MBA program is fully online and consists of 34 hours of coursework that integrates Christian ethical training into business training. Students may begin the program in any semester and may complete the program as full-time or part-time students. For more information, visit the LCU MBA website.

The Ray and Dorothy Young School of Business also offers a Master of Strategic Leadership as well as undergraduate business programs.

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The school already boasting two of the biggest public opinion lightning rods in college sports has completed its trifecta.

Already possessing head football coach Lane Kiffin and women’s head basketball coach Kim Mulkey, LSU re-hired a men’s head basketball coach it fired four years ago for NCAA recruiting violations.

Will Wade, who has been in successful survival orbit since the LSU canned him in March 2022 as a human sacrifice to avoid serious sanctions for its cash-cow football program, confirmed in social media just before noon Thursday that he was leaving North Carolina State after one season to run it back with the Tigers.

Immediately, the level of hate from coast-to-coast for LSU sports just raised a couple of notches.

Ain’t it grand?

The immediate reaction of the sanctimonious national media was predictable.

Harump! Isn’t this the school that mouthy hussy Mulkey in April 2021?

Harump! Also, aren’t they the heartless orbs that stole Kiffin from Ole Miss this past December, just a few weeks before the Rebels made the college football playoffs for the first time?

Harump! And now they’re hiring Wade, who was heard on an FBI wiretap talking about “a strong ass offer” he made to allegedly buy a recruit?

Harump? Does LSU possess any morals about the way it does business?

Well, no.

It also had no college football playoff appearances in four seasons under former coach Brian Kelly, and didn’t sniff an NCAA Tournament invite in five seasons under Wade’s replacement and then predecessor Matt McMahon.

These days in college athletics, morals don’t rank high. It’s not even in “other receiving votes.”

If you want to win, there are no rules. You hire the person who not only can do that but also is attractive enough for NIL donors to open their wallets to buy players.

Just a quick reminder about Wade, who in 12 years as a head coach (Chattanooga, VCU, LSU, McNeese and North Carolina State) has never had a losing season while winning almost 70 percent of his games and earning eight NCAA Tournament bids in the last nine seasons (not counting the COVID-canceled 2020 postseason).

From 2017 to 2022 with the Tigers, he was 105-51 overall and 55-33 in the SEC. In the last four seasons, he won 48 regular-season SEC games, tying for the second-most of any league team over that period.

His tenure was the last time the Tigers’ program had a pulse and a palpable vibe. His 2018-19 team won the SEC regular championship and advanced to the Sweet 16. He had three 20-win seasons in his last four years.

Yes, he illegally bought players, probably at bargain-basement prices compared to now when athletes annually hold their head coaches for ransom.

But he purchased players with more talent illegally than the just-fired McMahon did legally. Four of them – Naz Reid, Cam Thomas, Tari Eason and Trendon Watford – are still in the NBA.

More than that, he coached with visible and genuine passion.

His players knew he always had their backs. The LSU fan base loved the way he never backed down from a fight.

In comparison, McMahon was almost invisible. That’s not a criticism. It’s just who he was, a low-key controlled guy, which didn’t fit well.

Neither did his 60-70 (46.2 percent) overall record, including 17-55 (23.6 percent) in the SEC.

In the end, it didn’t matter that the built-in excuses for McMahon of a lack of NIL money and injuries to key players were enough to overlook back-to-back 3-15 SEC records the last two seasons.

Meanwhile, Wade was 50-9 in two years at McNeese from 2023-25 and 20-14 this past season at NC State.

Truth be told, LSU should have hired Wade after last season. One of his final images as McNeese’s coach was hugging then-McNeese president Wade Rousse and athletic director Heath Schroyer.

At that time, those pieces weren’t in place for Wade to return to LSU.

Now, they are. Rousse was named LSU’s new president in early November. Schroyer, just a couple hours ahead of Wade officially announcing he’s reclaiming his Tigers’ hoop throne, said he has been hired as an LSU senior deputy athletic director.

It wasn’t long after that that Wade went to social media to finally confirm the lingering, poorly kept secret. He agreed to a 7-year, $30 million deal with a roster budget commitment exceeding $12 million.

“It’s a chance to go home to a place that means a great deal to me and my family,” Wade tweeted. “The opportunity to return to Louisiana State University is deeply personal.”

Of course, it is. Wade never should have been fired in the first place. He’s coming back to finish the job he started.

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The Rapides Parish School Board announced that a group of its administrators has successfully completed the “Leading for Better Instruction” cohort through The Orchard Foundation.

The program, which spanned three years, focused on strengthening instructional leadership and supporting professional growth among school administrators. District officials noted that participants demonstrated a continued commitment to improving outcomes for both students and teachers.

School system leaders highlighted the importance of ongoing professional development in advancing district goals and enhancing classroom instruction.

The district also expressed appreciation to The Orchard Foundation for its continued support in developing educational leaders across the region.

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Services for Retired Sheriff William Earl Hilton will be held at 12:00 p.m., Friday, March 27, 2026, at Calvary Baptist Church with Bishop Anthony Mangun, Reverend Jimmy Koonce, and The Reverend Dr. James S. Hardison, Sr. officiating. Burial will be in Fellowship Cemetery, Hineston, under the direction of Hixson Brothers, Alexandria.

The family requests that visitation be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Calvary Baptist from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Friday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services.

Mr. Hilton, 80, of Hineston, passed from this life on Monday, March 23, 2026, at Rapides Regional Medical Center, the result of a horrible tragedy.

Sheriff William Earl Hilton served in law enforcement for 50 years, 24 as sheriff.  He was a member of Homewood Baptist Church.

Sheriff Hilton decided as a teenager that one day he would be sheriff because he admired Sheriff Kelly and his dad who was a constable. He spent many days running the halls of the courthouse. Growing up, he was his Dad’s constant companion, from buying horses to serving papers for the Sheriff’s Department. He learned the people and remembered everyone that he met. He had a gift about remembering people and their entire families.

After becoming Sheriff, his total focus was on improving the department. When he started working, the cars were old and had slick tires and no equipment. Pay was low, he started at $325 a month, which was less than his job with the City of Alexandria. He always strived to improve equipment and benefits for his employees. He brought a lot of innovation to the department. Sheriff Hilton founded the Louisiana Youth Academy, Juvenile Boot Camp. He increased parish prison capacity from 278 to almost 1000. He opened additional sub-stations and reduced response time. He established a training academy for corrections officers. He placed a full-time deputy in every school in Rapides Parish to keep our children safe. Using federal grant funds, he obtained a Mobile Command Center and a SWAT Team Response Vehicle.

Sheriff Hilton was very active in civic affairs and the community. He has served on the Region VI Mental Health Advisory Council and the executive board of the Boy Scouts of America Attakappas Council. He has been on the Board of Advisors for Renaissance Home for Youth. He is a past chairman of the Board of Directors for the Food Bank of Central Louisiana; a member of the Advisory Board of the Salvation Army; a member of the Central Louisiana Coalition to Prevent Homelessness; and he has chaired fundraising events for the Heart Fund, the March of Dimes, and the Red Cross.

He treated everyone he met with the same respect from the people catering food at an event to meeting President Bill Clinton. He came from humble beginnings and never forgot that. He would actually get Christmas cards from inmates that he had put in prison because they knew he had treated them fairly.

Sheriff Hilton is a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason, Shreveport Consistory, and a member of Oliver Masonic Lodge #84 and Gardner Lodge #482. He is a member of the El Karubah Shrine Temple, and past president of the Cenla Shrine Club.

He is past president of the Rapides Cattleman’s Association and a charter member of the Central Louisiana High School Rodeo Association.

A member of the National Rifle Association, He was an avid sportsman, both hunting and fishing. He is a member of many sportsmen organizations and enjoyed spending time with his son and grandson at his camp at Flatwoods.

He is preceded in death by his parents, James Thomas “Tom” and Modena “Frankie” Hilton; brother, Herbert Hilton; sister, Verna Hilton Fussell.

Sheriff Hilton has been married for 61 years to Billie Faye Gunter Hilton. They have two grown children, Shane Hilton and wife, Laurie and Kristy Dunn and husband, Bubba; one grandchild, Slade Hilton; step grandson, Jaxson Filler.

Pallbearers will be Tommy Bebee, Robert Parker, Keith Parker, Mark Wood, Trey Gist, and Chad Dyess. Honorary Pallbearers will be James “Jam” Downs, Charles Ray Nash, Rocky Willson, Clayton Brister, and Nubbin Melder.

He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the people he served.

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Funeral services for Mrs. Kay Lynn Dubrock will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026, in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Glenmora, with Reverend Robert Jordan officiating. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Pisgah Cemetery, Forest Hill, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Oakdale.

Mrs. Dubrock, 76, of Oakdale, entered eternal rest on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at Allen Oaks Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Oakdale, LA.

A loving mother and grandmother, she cherished every moment with her family and brought joy to everyone she met. A true cowgirl at heart, she loved her Coca-Cola, watching westerns, and making her famous pancakes, memories her family will treasure forever. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by one son, Camron Hensley; her parents, Joseph and Jessie Dubrock; and one brother, Hobby Dubrock.

Those left to mourn her loss and cherish her memory are one daughter, Rhonda Rice (Robert) of Glenmora; one daughter-in-law, Heather Hensley (Brian) of Oakdale; three granddaughters, Kaylee Rice, Jolene Hensley, and Breannia Mata; four grandsons, Kaleb Richey (Nancy), Eli Cloud (Abby), Gaige Johnson, and Keith Gassiott (Haley); ten great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Rhonda Rice, Kaylee Rice, Eli Cloud, Gaige Johnson, Jason Todd, Robert Gillespie, and Mike Dubrock.

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A Mass of Christian Burial for Michael Gerard Laurent will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church with Rev. Phil Michiels officiating. Interment will follow in Greenwood Memorial Park under the direction of John Kramer & Son Funeral Home.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church.

Michael Gerard Laurent of Alexandria, Louisiana passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026, at the age of 57. He was born on June 7, 1968, to Charles and Betty Laurent.

Although Michael faced many challenges in his life, he never lost his childlike wonder. He had a smile that could brighten any room, loved his DVD collection, and was known to enjoy a coke or two. He enjoyed swimming in the summer as a boy, bowling a round or two, and watching Tom chase Jerry in the classic cartoon Tom & Jerry.

As a boy, Mike attended John Eskew Training Center where he spent his days surrounded by patient, supportive teachers who strive to teach their citizens independence. As he grew into adulthood, he found his role at The Arc and went to work daily to achieve the tasks given to him each day.

Michael participated in Special Olympics as a swimmer, and we have fond memories of those days.

Michael taught our family the true meaning of compassion, patience, and unconditional love. We are better people for having known him.

He is survived by his brother, Charles Laurent III and his wife, Paula, of McQueeny , Texas, his sister, Claire Lacombe and her husband, Billy, of Corpus Christi, Texas, and his sister, Anne Laurent of Alexandria, Louisiana; his nieces, Amber Lush, Rachel Henning, Laura Sanders, and Karen Coats; his nephew, Nicholas Laurent; and three great nephews and two great nieces and (One future great niece).

Michael is preceded in death by his parents, Charles & Betty Laurent Jr.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to The Arc (John Eskew Training Center), 1700 Ashley Ave, Alexandria, LA 71301, for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

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Phonetic: /men·da·cious/

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition

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A benefit fish fry scheduled for Friday, March 27, will now take place at a new location, organizers announced.

The event, hosted by Alexandria Firefighters Local 540, will be held at Four Seasons Bowling Alley, located at 3510 North Boulevard. 

The fundraiser will begin at 11 a.m. and continue until sold out. Plates will be available for $15 and include a three-piece fried fish meal with coleslaw, fries, and a drink.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Captain Joshua Holloway and his family. Organizers are encouraging the community to attend and show support.

Large pre-orders are available by contacting Cory Brumfield at 318-201-0007.

Organizers are also asking the public to help spread the word about the location change to ensure strong turnout for the event.

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