Kerlin Caspari Sutton, 91, a native of Natchitoches for over nine decades, entered eternal rest Jan. 17, 2017. Kerlin was born Sept. 16, 1925, in his parents’‚ home in Natchitoches. A service to honor his life was Friday, Jan. 20 at 2 p.m. in the Chapel of Blanchard St. Denis Funeral Home. Interment followed in the American Cemetery. His family legacy was a major factor in his lifelong interest in the history of his hometown and his decision to stay in Natchitoches and create businesses and connections that would contribute to the growth of the community. Kerlin was considered a leading authority on the history of the community. He was a voracious reader and expert of trivial facts concerning Natchitoches. He loved writing, photography, history, Cane River (especially teaching others how to water ski) and dogs. He was a founding member of the Kappa Alpha Order at Northwestern State University and helped with the formation of the Natchitoches Board of Realtors. Kerlin was also a member of the Sons of Confederate Veterans, the Rotary Club and past President of the Natchitoches Northwestern Symphony Society. Kerlin signed up for the US Army Air Corps even though his 18th birthday was still a few months away. He dreamed of flying planes, but was assigned to radar due to vision problems. This gave him the opportunity to study at the University of Illinois and the University of Wisconsin, and he eventually served at bases in the Philippines, Okinawa and Tokyo. When he completed his military service, Kerlin retuned to Northwestern, but changed his major to business administration. He had some entrepreneurial interests and wanted to be prepared to pursue these interests. Soon after returning to Northwestern after the war, Kerlin met Margaret Ellen Abington. The couple graduated in 1949 and soon married. They would spend the next 67 years together. His children and grandchildren were his pride and joy. His son, Mark Kerlin, married the former Mary Catherine Burke, and added Marshall Cannon, Matthew Landry and great-grandson Jonah Landry to his family. His daughter, Ellen Nita and her husband Daniel Reeves Donaldson added their children Jonathan Daniel and Thomas Mark. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Pete Abington and wife Ellen; nieces and nephews, Clay Abington, Julie Abington Brewton and husband Mickey, Valerie Abington, Doug Abington and wife Beth; and great niece and nephew, Katiebeth and Walker, Elizabeth Abington Prejean, Camille Abington Hansen and husband Jim; son, Jake Harrington and wife Erynn and great niece Brynn; and Rodney Abington and son Gavin Abington. Kerlin was preceded in death by his parents, George and Nita Sutton; his beloved mother and father-in-law, Nellie and Douglas Abington; brother-in-law, Douglas Abington; sister-inlaw Mai Abington; and nephew, Stephen Douglas Abington. A special thanks to his friends and caregivers Deborah Haskett and Joe Williams. Thanks also to his friend, David Graham, who made his life so special by their Kisatchie escapades. Those honored to serve as pallbearers include Matthew Landry Sutton, Marshall Cannon Sutton, Jonathan Daniel Donaldson, Thomas Mark Donaldson, Leonard Clayton Abington, Douglas Walker Abington, Rodney Crews Abington and James Michael “Mickey” Brewton. Honorary pallbearers include L.J. Melder, David Graham, Jim Bob Key, Robby Lucky and Joe Williams. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in the honor of Kerlin Caspari Sutton to the Northwestern State University scholarship fund of your choice at NSU Foundation, 535 University Parkway, Natchitoches, LA 71457 or any other charity of your choice in his honor.

A memorial service for Mrs. Irma Fredericks, 60, will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 28 at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home in Natchitoches. The family will receive friends from 9 a.m. until service time in the Chapel of Blanchard-St. Denis.

Irma, of Natchitoches, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer Jan. 24, 2017, in Natchitoches. She was born Aug. 14, 1956, in Belle Chasse.

Irma married William Fredericks Sr. Jan. 27, 1989. She loved playing bingo and spending time with family and friends. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy. She will be dearly missed by all.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry Phillips and Carry Kirk Phillips; and two brothers, Kenneth Wayne Phillips and Jerry Lee Phillips.

She is survived by her husband, William Fredericks Sr. of Natchitoches; children, William Fredericks Jr. of Galvez, Tammy Sterling of Springfield, Mo., Stephanie Crow of Winnfield, Stephanie Cobbs of Marthaville and Crystal Brown of Colorado Springs, Colo.; 10 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; three sisters, Mary Wilson of Columbia, Carrie Johnson of Calvin and Patricia Johnson of Natchez, Miss.; and six brothers, Johnny Phillips of Clarence, Carl Phillips of Baton Rouge, Albert Phillips of Coushatta, Floyd Phillips of Coushatta, Michael Phillips of McNeal, Ark., and Clinton Phillips of Coushatta.

Jan. 23, 1942 - Jan. 19, 2017

A Funeral Mass will be Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017, at 11 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Cloutierville. A public visitation will be from 10 a.m. until service time at the church. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Funeral services for Mamie J. Haley were at 1 pm Tuesday, Jan. 24 at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home with Bro. Buddy Hankins presiding. Burial followed at Provencal Cemetery in Provencal.

Mamie Jewell Haley, 82, a former resident of Provencal, passed away with her family by her side Friday, Jan. 20, 2017, in Shreveport. She was born Oct. 14, 1934, to Levy Roy and Laura Vercher Roy in Natchitoches.

Mamie had the most admirable job of all, a stay at home wife and mother who truly cared for her family’s needs. She was a strong woman who battled cancer over a 15 year span. A loving mother and grandmother and affectionately known as Maw- Maw to her grandchildren, she will be dearly missed but always remembered.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard D. Haley; a grandson, Neil Haley; three sisters and two brothers.

She is survived by her daughter, Nell Sisson and husband Lane of Shreveport; son, Stanley Haley of Shreveport; granddaughter, Lorrie Magill and husband Jacob of Shreveport; and great-grandson Grayson Magill whom she adored spending time with, he lightened up her life and was the apple of her eye.

The family wishes to “thank” the staff at Highland Christus Schumpert Cancer Center for the care and compassion they gave Mamie during such a difficult time as well as the staff of Amedisys Hospice Care; Shannon, Amanda, Nora and Chaplain Mr. Jim.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers include James Shoemaker, Jay Shoemaker, Stephen Orsborn, Randy Yopp and Jacob Magill.

Funeral service for Margaret Dunwar Speight were at 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 23, 2017, in Blanchard St. Denis Chapel with the Rev. Jerald Gant, the Rev. William Phillips, the Rev. Zachary West and the Rev. Harry Blake offering words of comfort. Interment followed in Lawrence Serenity Cemetery at Natchitoches.

Margaret, 85, of Natchitoches passed away Jan. 16, 2017, in Natchitoches. She was born March 18, 1931, in Natchitoches to Oscar Dunwar Sr. and Joanna Lee Dunwar. Margaret was a housekeeper and mother to many children throughout her life. She was baptized at St. Savior Baptist Church in Natchitoches. There was never a kinder and more genteel lady that one could meet. She was a hard worker and a wonderful cook. She was born and raised in Natchitoches, where she attended and finished high school, graduating from Natchitoches Training School in 1951.

She met and married Elmo Newson, a union that produced two daughters, Gwendolyn and Brenda. Later in life, she married Hayward Speight. Both husbands preceded her in death.

Margaret was a fine Christian lady and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by one daughter, Brenda Joyce Berryman and husband Henry of Natchitoches; her grandchildren, Lonard Davis and wife Danyale of Harrisburg, Pa., Nishan Doron Newson of Natchitoches and Ashley Berryman of Natchitoches; great-grandchildren, Christian Davis, Ryan Davis, Sydney Davis, Kelsee Berryman and Kiara White; sister, Bennie Murray and husband James; numerous nieces and nephews; and a very special family friend, Elizabeth Johnson of Natchitoches.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two husbands, and two infant brothers. She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Gwendolyn Davis; two sisters, Emma Lindsey and Barbara Lacaze; and two brothers, Oscar Dunwar Jr. and Joseph Patrick Dunwar.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers were Alex Washington Jr., Gene Revels Jr., Michael Davis, Jarrad Smith Sr., Shayne Belion and Steffon Smith.

Honorary pallbearers were James Murray, Henry Berryman, Lonard Davis, Doron Newson, Johnny Edwards and Christopher Dunwar.

James Chia-hung Lin was born Aug. 12, 1932, in Macao, China, to Zee-ping Lin and Rin-sen Wu Lin. He passed away Jan. 18, 2017, in Dallas, Texas, at the age of 84. He spent his childhood years in Tianjin, China, and moved with his family to Taiwan in 1946. He received his bachelor’s degree in biology from National Taiwan Normal University, came to the US in 1957, and obtained a master’s degree from Rice University and a doctorate from North Carolina State University at Raleigh in 1965. Dr. Lin was a biology professor at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches where he became a longtime resident.

He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Etta Hsiao-yu Jin Lin.

He is survived by his son, David Lin and wife Dorothy Kleinjan Lin; sons, Gilbert Lin and Bruce Lin; granddaughters; Ava and Sophie Lin; brother, Charles Lin; and sisters, Pauline Lin Shih, Anne Lin Hwang, June Lin Chung, Judy Lin Yeh and Eleanor Lin Liu.

Mary Kathryn Ebarb Boudreaux, 95, of Zwolle passed away peacefully Jan. 22, 2017, surrounded by her family. Services were Wednesday, Jan. 25 at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Zwolle with Father Richard Norsworthy officiating. Burial followed in the St. Joseph Cemetery.

Kathryn’s greatest love was her family, especially her rambunctious grandchildren and her strong catholic faith. She loved to spend time with her prayer group of special friends whom she referred to fondly as “her girls.” Kathryn loved to play bingo and mingle with friends Monday nights. Kathryn liked to dress up and accessorize with lots of bling and red lipstick and talk, talk, talk. She enjoyed numerous things such as gardening and having coffee and daily chats with her twin sister, Ruth. She was a member of the St. Theresa Circle, VFW, American Legion Auxiliary and the Choctaw Apache Tribe of Ebarb.

Kathryn was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Johnny Boudreaux; daughter, Kathy Boudreaux Butler; her parents, Paul and Florence Ebarb; brothers, Paul Fredrick, Jessie Patrick and Joseph Donald Ebarb; and sisters, Vivian Ebarb and Dr. Frances Bybee.

She is survived by her children, Joan Sheffield and husband Jimmy of Natchitoches, Pat Boudreaux and wife Darlene of Zwolle, Jennifer Arthur and husband Dennis of Natchitoches and Karen Montgomery and husband Danny of Natchitoches; twin sister, Ruth Loupe of Zwolle; sisters, Theo Ezernack of Natchitoches and Polly Moyer of Nashville, Tenn.; 17 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; one great-great grandson; numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Pallbearers were her grandsons, Jay Sheffield, Lamar Boudreaux , Jarrad Remedis, James Sheffield, Justin Sheffield, Andrew Montgomery, Joshua Farmer and Justin Farmer.

Honorary pallbearers were Donald “Hootie” Remedies, Kenny John Remedies, Kenneth Ebarb, Gary Lee, Steve Richard, Terry “Butcher Boy” Ebarb and her rosary prayer group.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her memory to St. Joseph Catholic Church, P. O. Box 8, Zwolle, LA 71486.

Nov. 19, 1961 – Jan. 21, 2017

Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 28 at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel, 318 North St.. The remains will lie in state at the funeral home for public visitation an hour before service. Burial will follow in the Campti Community Cemetery.

Joseph “Joe” M. Thompson was born Dec. 28, 1925, in Bayou Boudreaux to William Emmett and Virginia Lonadier Thompson. He was a resident of Shady Grove. Following a lengthy illness, he went home to the Lord Jan. 22, 2017, surrounded by his children at his son’s residence in Provencal.

Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, Joe followed his two brothers into military service when he was just 16 years old. He served honorably in the U.S. Navy for 23 years as a Torpedoman’s Mate and as Chief Torpedoman on numerous submarines during World War II, the Korean Conflict and the Cuban Missile Crisis. During his career, he served on the S41, USS Mingo (SS- 261), USS Clamagore (SS-343), USS Harter (SS-568), USS Trumpetfish (SS-425) and others. He retired Aug. 15, 1967, while serving on the USS Alexander Hamilton (SSB- 617). While serving his country, he, like most sailors, had many ports of call such as Cuba, Italy, Spain, Australia and the North Atlantic. He saw many noteworthy and awe inspiring if not heart rending sights such as the Mushroom Cloud through the submarine periscope when the Atomic Bomb was detonated over Hiroshima.

Joe’s military awards include Good Conduct Medal (sixth award) World War II Occupational Medal, Navy Occupation Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, American Campaign Service Medal, and United Nations Service Medal.

After retirement from the Navy, he and his wife, Lessie Mae Banes Thompson, settled in Provencal where they raised their family. He worked as an electrician with many of the plywood plants in the area before going off-shore.

Joe loved the Lord, preach and spread the gospel. He had a strong faith which he shared with his family every chance he had. He always had a garden and enjoyed wood working when he was able.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Price Thompson of Shady Grove; children, Joseph R. (Sharon) Thompson of Blanchard, Joseph Charles “Chuck” (Debra) Thompson of Provencal, Darlene (Kennith) Hargrove of DeRidder, Laura Ivy of Robeline, Ginger (Will) Williams of Fort Polk, Marie Buxton of Coldwater and Jay Thompson of Kaufman, Texas; step-sons, Ricky (Cindy) Price of Shady Grove and Ronnie Price of Shady Grove; step-daughter, Renee Broadway of Jena; 23 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 42 years, Lessie Mae Banes Thompson; infant daughter, Cynthia Lynne Thompson; first wife, Cora Charlcie Lonadier; mother and father, William Emmett and Virginia Thompson Lonadier; brothers, William Alvin “Son” Thompson and Roy J. Thompson; sisters, Lottie Ham, Gracie Cobb and Nellie Mae Beatty.

Funeral services were Friday, Jan. 27 at 2 p.m. at Provencal Baptist Church officiated by Bro. Wesley Jackson.

Pallbearers were grandsons Steven Thompson, Joseph C. Thompson Jr., Skylar Thompson, Michael Sims, Patrick Sims and Michael Watts.

Interment with full military honors followed at Provencal Cemetery.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to Kim Ann Brister, Ms. Elaine, Ricky King and Hospice of Natchitoches for the wonderful care they gave our dad.

Our sincere thanks to the Patriot Riders and the Combat Vets for honoring our dad.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith” II Timothy 4:7

Funeral Services will be celebrated Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, at 11 a.m. at the Winnfield Memorial Funeral Home Chapel, 318 North St., with burial following in the St. Mary Baptist Church (Cane River) Cemetery. The remains will lie in state for public visitation at the funeral home from 8 a.m. until service time.

Heaven gained an angel when Helen Wickenheiser, 94, of Fargo, N.D., passed away peacefully Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017, in Natchitoches where she had been residing since 2013. She was surrounded and lovingly cared for by family and Hospice. Helen, the eldest of 12 children, was born to Pius and Julia Reis of Kintyre, N.D., April 12, 1922. After attending high school in Napoleon, N.D. she worked for the N.D. State Auditor and State Insurance Department from 1942-50. In 1948, she married Peter Wickenheiser in Bismarck, N.D. To this union were born nine children, Marguerite (Tim) Felchle of Natchitoches; Mary (Bill) Kelsch of Bismarck, N.D., Dr. Richard (Sharon) Wickenheiser of Red Bluff, Calif., Mike (Janet) Wickenheiser of Centennial, Colo., Charles (Theresa) Wickenheiser of Fargo, N.D., Teresa (Bruce) Dodds of Hempstead, Texas, Janet (Jeff) Slaven of Lenexa, Kan., Barbara (Terry) Magnuson of Vergas, Minn., and Julie (John) Heinze of Moorhead, Minn. After the children were grown and in school, Helen worked at Ben Franklin Jr. High in the hot lunch program and at the Hospitality Shop at St. Luke’s (Sanford) Hospital. She retired in 1985. Helen was a member of the Catholic Daughters of America and in 2005 she was selected Mother of the Year by Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Helen, a mother figure to many, was adored by everyone who knew her. Known to many as “Hospitality Helen,” you knew if you dropped by (unannounced) at the Wickenheiser house, there would be Kuchen or homemade goodies to enjoy while you visited. Mom knew everyone’s favorite foods and you could be assured that it was on the menu any time you visited – the German “Dough Diet” and her delicious pies were only a few of her specialties. Every grandchild was gifted a baby quilt lovingly handmade by their Grandma Helen. She loved to play cards with all ages and her embroidered dishtowels were best sellers at the church bazaars. Helen loved to sew and we are certain that her signature aprons can be found in many of your kitchens. Helen enjoyed spending time with family at their lake cottage on Lake Ida for 20 years, and most recently with family on Loon Lake. Up until her final days, her witty humor and reminiscing, brought smiles and laughter to all. Helen is survived by her nine children; 19 grandchildren, Kristen Evans, Jessica Peluso and Erika Cedars; Michael, Christopher, and Sarah Kelsch; Jeremy and Peter Wickenheiser; Michael Wickenheiser; Trevor Wickenheiser and Leah Green; Chad Dodds and Amy Wiedenfeld; Haley Berg and Abigail Slaven; Benjamin and Taylor Magnuson; Justin and Ashley Heinze; and 20 greatgrandchildren, Aiden, Addison, and Avery Evans; Madelyn, Isabella, and Anna Peluso; Winston III and Holt Cedars; Maxwell and Brady Kelsch; William Kelsch; Alexis and Lucy Wickenheiser; Adelaide Wickenheiser, Keeley and Nora Green; Sunny and River Dodds; Cormac and Soren Wiedenfeld. She is also survived by four sisters, Barbara Wald of Napoleon, N.D., Carolina Schatz of Kettle River, Minn., Alvera Leier of Kintyre, N.D., and Angeline Geiger of Bismarck; and one brother, Peter Reis of Napoleon, N.D. Helen was preceded in death by her parents; husband Peter; brothers, Pius and Sebastian; sisters, Eva, Clara, Theresia and Madge; and great-grandchild, Andrew Evans. A special thank you to Margaret Williams, Dr. Kathleen Kautz and Hospice of Natchitoches. In lieu of flowers, donations in Helen’s memory can be sent to Hospice of Natchitoches at 340 Second St., Natchitoches, LA 71457. Visitation will be from 6-7 p.m. with a prayer service at 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 22 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Fargo. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 23 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Fargo, with visitation one hour prior. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Graveside services for William E. “Bill” Hicks will be Sunday, Jan. 29 at 2 p.m. at Marthaville Cemetery officiated by the Rev. Richard Kaufman and Benji Colvin. Visitation will be at Blanchard St. Denis Funeral Home Saturday, Jan. 28 from 5- 7 p.m. He was born Sept. 28, 1932, and passed away Jan. 25, 2017, in his home in Natchitoches. Bill was an avid sportsman with a particular love for golf. His work with Brown & Root Construction in the marine division took him for 35 years to many countries around the world including England, India, Bahrain and Mexico. He is preceded in death by his father, L.E. Hicks; mother, Jewel Smith Hicks; and sister Lynn Hicks Driscoll. He is survived by his wife, Yvonne Rains Hicks; and sisters, Nell Hicks Bowie and Peggy Hicks Carson. The family wishes to express sincere appreciation to Dr. Robert Massingill and Dr. Stephen Wheat and special friends Wayne and Pam North for their kind and considerate care and friendship. Those honored to serve as pallbearers are David Bailey, Wayne North, Jim Berry, Jack Rougeou, Charles Davis and Ben Carson.

Funeral services for Ronald Wayne Prewitt of Natchitoches, a prominent North Louisiana businessman for four decades, will be Saturday, Jan. 28 at 2 p.m. at Westside Baptist Church, Natchitoches. The Rev. Steve McAlister, pastor of Westside, will officiate. Burial will follow at the American Cemetery, Natchitoches. Prewitt, 66, died of a sudden illness Monday, Jan. 23, 2017, in Gonzales, Texas, where he had been involved in the activities of his CRC Oilfield Services company. Born in Delano, Calif., July 31, 1950, Ron grew up in Ozark, Mo., where he played high school football and basketball. He received a basketball scholarship to Arkansas Tech in Russellville and was a letterman there before transferring to Louisiana Tech, where he graduated with honors in Forestry in 1972. He began his career as a licensed forester in Coushatta and in 1978 became a partner and owner of Mitchell & Prewitt, a forestry consulting company in Natchitoches that included among its clients such major landowners as International Paper Company. Prewitt was engaged in real estate development in Natchitoches and acquired extensive property throughout North Louisiana. He was active for years in the oil and gas industry, especially in the Haynesville Shale area. In recent years, he established Bayou Country Forestry Management and CRC Oilfield Services companies. He was baptized at the age of 12 at the First Baptist Church of Ozark, Mo., and was a member of First Baptist Church of Natchitoches, where he taught Royal Ambassador classes and coached youth basketball teams over the years. Prewitt was active in such professional organizations as the Louisiana Forestry Association and the National Association of Consulting Foresters and had numerous other interests. He achieved the designation of Eagle Scout, held a Black Belt in karate, was a competitive racquetball player for years, an avid hunter and fishermen who supported Ducks Unlimited and other conservation groups and was a lifelong fan of the Dallas Cowboys. Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Efton Sloane Prewitt and Violet Maxine Prewitt. He is survived by his daughter, Natalie Ducote and husband Keith of Natchitoches; sons, Nicholas Prewitt and wife Jamie of New Braunfels, Texas, and Joseph Prewitt of Austin, Texas; granddaughters, Allie Ducote, Charlee Ann Ducote, Ava Prewitt and Karmelya Johnson, who called him Papa or Pasta Ron; sister, Gwen Baskin and husband William or “Hop” of Springdale, Ark.; uncle, Robert Stanley “Shorty” Prewitt; and aunts, Loretta Joan Ross and Dorothea Joyce Hoffman. He is also survived by his fiancée, Lisa Smith of Natchitoches and her daughters, Meredith, Anna, Lauren and Cameron. Pallbearers will be Enyart Mitchell, Dannie Collins, Edgar Cason, Andrew Vallien, Joe Cooper, Tim Moran, Dale Morvan and David Coker. Honorary pallbearers will be Keith Ducote, Benjamin Zeichner, Daniel Zeichner, Ricky Swayze, Billy Shaw, Robert Prewitt and Orville Bynog. The family suggested that in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to Natchitoches Hope for Paws or other charities of the donors’ choice.

Funeral services for Mrs. Eleanor Washer will be at 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30 at Iatt Baptist Church near Atlanta with the Rev. Terry Smith officiating. Interment will follow in Iatt Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until service time Monday at the church. Eleanor, 94, passed away Jan. 25, 2017, at her home in Natchitoches surrounded by her family. She was born Sept. 12, 1922, to Orville Corbin Sr. and Freda Parker Corbin in Cincinnati, Ohio. She was a feisty and outspoken lady and a guiding light to her family. She had many things that she loved, whether it was sitting by the window and watching her birds while playing solitaire, watching and answering all of the questions on Jeopardy, or traveling with her husband, Clarence. She loved her family and was a caregiver to many. She saw many things in this life over the course of her 94 years, but now awaits her reward in Glory. She will be missed. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sons, James Walker and Joseph Washer Sr.; two grandchildren, Robbie Sluss and Ryan Berry; one great-great grandchild, Braxton Sluss; her son-in-law, Wayne Banes; four sisters, Patricia Beck, Ernestine Bond, Betty Samson and Delephern Corbin; and four brothers, Orville Corbin Jr., George Corbin, Leroy Corbin and Bobby Corbin. She is survived by her husband of almost 46 years, Clarence Washer Jr. of Natchitoches; two daughters, Alice Banes and Freida Berry and husband Kevin, all of Natchitoches; eight grandchildren, Dawn Ponthieux of Lake End, Dianette Busbin and husband Brett of Denham Springs, Rodney Sluss and wife Nikki of Winnfield, James Sluss of Natchitoches, Zachary Berry and wife Magen of Robeline, Allison Berry of Natchitoches, Joseph Washer Jr. of Leesville, and Samantha Washer of Leesville; great-grandchildren, Taylor Robinson and husband Philip, Patrick Hale II, Ashlyn Hueffer, Grace Busbin, Gannon Busbin, Erikk Sluss and wife Rachal, Ridge Sluss and Logan Sluss; one great-great grandchild, Bailey Robertson; and her sister, Helen Edginton of Milford, Ohio. Those honored to serve as pallbearers will be Erikk Sluss, Ridge Sluss, Rodney Sluss, Zachary Berry, James Sluss and Joseph Washer Jr. Honorary pallbearers will be Kevin Berry, Brett Busbin and Patrick Hale II. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to the funeral home to help defray the costs of the services.

Funeral services for Dr. Wendell C. Wellman will be Friday, Feb. 3 at 1 p.m. at New Life Evangelism Center in Natchitoches with the Revs. Dennis Bjornberg and Rodney Boswell officiating the service. Interment will follow at American Cemetery in Natchitoches under the direction of Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home. The family will receive friends Thursday, Feb. 2 from 5-8 p..m at New Life Evangelism Center. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tupelo Children’s Mansion, the New Life Evangelism Center Building Fund, or the Northwestern State University Foundation. ?? Dr. Wendell Clifford Wellman was born Dec. 24, 1950, to Riley Clifford and Reddie Dee Wellman. A 1968 graduate of Hicks High School, Dr. Wellman went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from the University of Louisiana Monroe, where he married Nelda, the love of his life, a master’s degree from Northwestern State University and a Doctorate of Educational Leadership from Stephen F. Austin State University. Dr. Wellman, or “Doc” to his students, was an Associate Professor and Coordinator of the Educational Leadership program at NSU. Preceded in death by his parents, Riley and Reddie Wellman, and granddaughter Anne Alexandra Perkins, Dr. Wellman is survived by his wife of 46 years, Dr. Nelda Self Wellman of Natchitoches; daughter, Dr. Gerra Wellman Perkins and husband Kendal Perkins of Natchitoches and their daughters, Kate and Caroline; and his son, Dr. Gerard Wellman and his wife Lisa Zimmerman Wellman of Turlock, Calif., and their three sons, Grant, Riley, and Owen. He is survived by three sisters, Hannah Leonard, Glenda Lewis and Shandra Hood and husband Glen of Leesville; brother, Elray Wellman and wife Sharon of Lacamp; and numerous nieces and nephews. Among the many who held a special place in Wendell’s heart are his wife’s family, his church family and his NSU family. With the motto, “If a little is good, a lot is better,” Wendell embraced life, and there was nothing he loved more than large family gatherings, camp meetings in Tioga, Christmas festivities at Lacamp and Natchitoches, cross-country trips in an RV, and, in other words, any excuse to eat, tease, swap embellished stories, tell jokes and laugh. He enjoyed traveling to the mountains, preferably in Arkansas, and embarking on cruises to any destination. With a strongly pronounced sense of adventure, and frequently over the stated objections of his wife, Wendell sought out novel experiences; if there was an element of risk involved, so much the better. A few of his more notable accomplishments include skydiving at age 52, climbing Chichen Itza in Mexico, and ziplining through the Jamaican jungle. Over the past 10 years, the center of his world revolved around his grandchildren, whom he adored. Known alternately as “Pop” and “Poppa,” he was a doting grandfather who was convinced his little angels could do no wrong. His grandchildren will remember frequent breakfast dates and trips to buy donuts and frozen yogurt. Wendell’s fun-loving nature meant providing them rides on any wheeled object, tractors, wagons, golf carts, and automobiles to name a few, and playing games, both real and made-up. A lifelong member of the United Pentecostal Church, Wendell enjoyed the fellowship of his church family and served in various leadership capacities throughout his life. As many people attest, he especially enjoyed debating Biblical concepts with anyone who would engage. In both church and educational settings, Wendell had a passion for working with people and helping them develop their unique talents and strengths. Wendell and Nelda shared a love of educating generations of students. As a teacher and professor, his classes were filled with laughter as he made personal connections with his students. Many have shared that he instilled self-confidence and purpose and challenged them to think critically. A strong believer in the power of knowledge, he inspired generations of students to pursue their dreams through higher education. Wendell loved a good bargain; “If a little is good, a lot is better.” There was nothing he wouldn’t buy, and in multiples, for the right price. One need look no further than the 20 bushels of peas in his freezer, alongside the 10 frozen turkeys, to the golf cart collection in his driveway. He extended this philosophy to cars purchased on eBay, and house remodelings as well, leaving a legacy of refurbished houses throughout the region. The next time you make a bulk purchase of an item you won’t use, remember his favorite phrase, “If a little is good, a lot is better.” The next time you contemplate higher education, remember, “If a little is good, a lot is better.” And in your pursuit of God and spiritual things, he’d want you to remember, “If a little is good, a lot is better.”

Funeral services honoring the life of Theron ‘Junior’ Starnes were Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017, at 10 a.m. at Blanchard St. Denis Funeral Home in Natchitoches with the Rev. Dennis Bjornberg officiating. Interment followed at Central Cemetery in Robeline. Junior was born to Theron Sr. and Helen Hall Starnes March 11, 1961, in Natchitoches. He was a loving father, son, brother and friend, always willing to help anyone in need. He loved fast cars, motorcycles and anything racing related, as well as traveling. He loved building things and was a master of his trade as a brick mason, learning at an early age from his father, PeeWee Starnes. He took great pride in his work and it showed. He is survived by his three sons, Vance Starnes and wife Katy and grandson Taylor Vance (due in May 2017), Caine Starnes and grandson Nathan Caine, and Brodie Starnes, all of Natchitoches. Also surviving is his ex-wife Melony Boydstun Starnes, parents Theron “Da” and Helen Starnes; sisters, Bridget Starnes Briley “Sis” and husband Louis, Sonya Starnes Rollo and husband Jeffrey, all of Natchitoches, and Missy Starnes James and husband Chad of Montgomery; and a host of nieces and nephews. Honored to be his pallbearers were his brothers-in-law Louis Briley, Jeffrey Rollo and Chad James; nephew, Luke Briley; and cousins, Donnie Berry and Doug Hall. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tenn. Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Funeral services for Mr. James R. Simmons were at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 31 at Westside Baptist Church in Natchitoches with the Rev. Bill Hudson and the Rev. Mike Honzell officiating. Interment followed at Fern Park Cemetery in Natchitoches. James Simmons, 78, of Natchitoches passed away Jan. 28, 2017. He was born Oct. 1, 1938, to James William Simmons II and Elma Stewart Simmons in Natchitoches. He wanted everyone to know that he was a born-again Christian. James loved his family dearly and served the Lord with all of his heart. He was a faithful member of Westside Baptist Church since 1975 and was ordained as a deacon for Westside Baptist Sept. 22, 1991. He was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. Some of his greatest joy was derived from spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was also an avid fan of the New Orleans Saints and the LSU Tigers. James was a member of the Masons, Shriners and The Eastern Star fraternities. He was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Janice V. Simmons of Natchitoches; two sons, James W. Simmons III of Provencal and Wayne R. Simmons of Campti; two daughters, Veronica “Bird” Stockwell of Natchitoches and Celidora Achord of Natchitoches; seven grandchildren, Chris Simmons of Atlanta, Ga., Casie Deville and husband Michael of Natchitoches, Randy Achord and wife Candace of Natchitoches, Rian Achord of Natchitoches and Carlie, Abbie, and Molly Simmons, all of Natchitoches; four great-grandchildren, Dakota Simmons, Cameron Simmons, Ashton Deville, and River Deville; and two sisters. He was preceded in death by his parents, five sisters; three brothers; his son-in-law, Wayne Stockwell; and his granddaughter, Chasity Achord. Those honored to be pallbearers were Durward Thomas, Bobby Dale Armour, Don Winn, J.W. Kelly, the Rev. Benji Colvin and Harold Faust. Honorary pallbearers were Michael Deville, Rian Achord and the Deacons of Westside Baptist Church. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Westside Baptist Church Flower Fund.

A Mass of Christian burial celebrating the life of James “Jim” Luczak was at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 31, at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria, with the Rev. James Ferguson officiating. Burial was in Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball. Mr. Luczak, 78, of Alexandria, passed from this life Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017, at his home. Pallbearers were his grandsons. Mr. Luczak served in the US Air Force as a Flight Line Mechanic. He was a member of St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria. James worked in construction building homes and commercial buildings and was a member of the National Home Builders Association. He was an avid sportsman and loved being in the outdoors. He loved spending time with his family and will be missed dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Frank and Josephine Rezmer Luczak. Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 58 years, Audrey Bryant Luczak; son, Michael Luczak and wife Sharon of Tomball, Texas; daughters, Kelly Luczak Reynolds and husband Joey of Houston and Chere Luczak Carnahan and husband William of Natchitoches; brother, Richard Luczak of Saginaw, Mich.; sister, Diane Luczak Graesser and husband Dr. Otto of Lansing, Mich.; grandchildren, Jarrad Reynolds, Kade Reynolds, Christine McLaughlin, Matthew Luczak, Lindsay Luczak, Wesley Carnahan and William Joseph Carnahan Jr.; three great-grandchildren; and a host of other family members and friends. To extend online condolences to the Luczak family, visit www.hixsonbrothers.com.

Robert Kelly, 78, of Natchitoches passed away Jan. 29, 2017. He was born April 27, 1938, in Kinder to George Kelly Jr. and Necy Butler Kelly. Robert was a jack of all trades and had a natural talent for fixing what was broken. He served his country by joining the U.S. Navy, dedicating many years of his life to its cause. He had an outgoing personality, never meeting a stranger and always tried to wear a smile. He loved to fish, garden, hunt, and watch either the N.O. Saints or LSU Tigers play football. Robert loved the Lord and read the Bible often. He will be greatly missed. He was preceded in death by his parents; three sons, Glenn Kelly, Zendal Kelly and Kenneth Kelly; one daughter, Delores Kelly McGee; one sister, Laura Louise Kelly; and two brothers, Thadeus Kelly and George “Dal” Kelly. Those left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Necy Loyce Kelly Bennett and husband Bradley of Natchitoches; 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; one sister, Loyce Roland of Riverside, Ohio; and one brother, Ernest Ray Kelly of Alexandria. A memorial service will be scheduled at a later time.

Johnia Inez Cherry Towry, 88, died Jan. 28, 2017, in Atlanta, Ga., where she spent the last years of her life. For 70 years, she shared that life with her husband, H.N. Towry Jr., who survives her. She was the last of 11 siblings. She grew up in Eufala, Okla., but spent the majority of her life in Natchitoches where she raised a family of girls. She was a business teacher in Natchitoches Parish, teaching many years at Cloutierville High School, where she also sponsored the FBLA. In her later years, she often spoke fondly of her students at Cloutierville. She was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Natchitoches. She was an avid gardener, a skilled seamstress and a killer cook. She was the moral compass for her children, who are better women today because of her guidance. She leaves behind a family that will always miss her and always be grateful to have shared her life. Her family includes her daughters, Sharon Chastain and husband Jim, Linda Towry, Carolyn Mayeaux and husband Jerry, Debra Towry and husband Antonio Carletti, Kristy Towry and husband Cameron Lee, and Tracy Wachholz and husband Kurt; seven grandchildren (two deceased); 15 great-grandchildren; and eight great-great-grandchildren.