Welcome to Friday. I hope it is going to be a good day for you.
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9
Prayer Focus
Pray for those who who recently had surgery including Laurie Miller who got home Wednesday evening.
Read the Bible in 2026
Friday, June 5
Deuteronomy 21-23
Obituaries
Harold Stokes
January 18, 1944 – June 3, 2026
Harold Stokes, age 82, of Amite, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026, at Hood Memorial Hospital. He was born on January 18, 1944, in Bogalusa, Louisiana.
Harold was a proud graduate of Amite High School, Class of 1962, and a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Amite. Throughout his life, he built a career in the scaffolding industry, where he was known for his strong work ethic and dedication.
Outside of his work, Harold embraced life to the fullest. He found joy in dancing with his lovely wife, spending time outdoors, and making memories with family and friends. He especially loved floating the river, bird hunting, fishing, working with his bird dogs, and participating in field trials with his bird dogs, as well as spending time with horses and going on trail rides. Many will remember him at the pool table or cheering on loved ones at sporting events, often with massive bowls of Blue Bell ice cream nearby. His greatest joy, however, was the time he spent surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Harold was preceded in death by his parents, Zola Mae Stokes and Shelby Harold Stokes; his brother, Daniel Stokes; and his father-in-law, Clifton Jones, and mother-in-law, Erline Jones.
He is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 62 years, Ruth Elizabeth Jones Stokes. He leaves behind his children: DeRenda Denise Stokes Gill (Harrison Gill), DaWanna DeLaine Stokes Schultz (Leonard Schultz), and Shelby Shane Stokes (Rachel Andre, affectionately known by Harold as his “Fruitcake”).
He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Justin Bennett (Abigail Bennett), Daniel Bennett (Ashton Rohr), Rebecca Davis Schmidt (Kleat Schmidt), Molly Gill (Justin Darby), Cody Ellis, David Ellis (Madeline Ellis), Dusty Stokes (Geoffrey Young), and Dakota Stokes (Blair Stokes).
Harold was blessed with numerous great-grandchildren: Hannah Bennett, Blake Bennett, Paisley Bennett, Jace Bennett, Jaxon Bennett, Danny Bennett, Summer Lyne Bennett, Waylon Bennett, Myley Ellis, Brinley Ellis, CJ Ellis, Aubrey Grace Ellis, Ryatt Ellis, Jaxon Stokes, and Amelia “Millie” Stokes, with one more great-grandchild, Josephine Rose Schmidt, expected in June 2026.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Amite, Louisiana, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m., with Dr. Matthew White officiating. Graveside services will follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests consideration of a donation to the First Baptist Church Amite Flower Fund. Donations may be mailed to P.O. Box 935, Amite, Louisiana 70422.
Harold will be remembered for his love of family, his lively spirit, and the countless memories he created with those who knew and loved him. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Shirley Frazier Cuccia
July 13, 1937 – June 3, 2026
A resident of Greensburg, LA passed away on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at St. Helena Parish Hospital in Greensburg, LA. She born July 13, 1937 in Greensburg, LA and was 88 years of age. She served as deputy clerk and clerk of court of Greensburg for over 40 years. She is survived by her nephews, Brooksie Ash and wife, Carol and Alex Joffre Ash and wife Mauda; and niece, Tonya Smith. Preceded in death by her parents, Alex Preston and Neva Frazier; and son, Gavin Juan Cuccia. Visitation at Red Bluff Baptist Church from 9:30AM until Memorial Services at 11:00AM on Saturday, June 13, 2026. Services conducted by Bro. Joe Day. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Additional Scripture
“O Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you; I will praise your name, for you have done wonderful things, plans formed of old, faithful and sure.”
Isaiah 25:1
Baptist Press
://www.baptistpress.com
Southern Baptist Convention
Florida
Next week
Pray for a productive meeting.
Vacation Bible School at FBC, Kentwood
Here is the attendance report for Thursday
112 children
41 adults
12 youth
163 total
Reminder
Tonight at 6:00 P.M., FBC, Kentwood will host the families and friends of children who attended VBS this week in Kentwood with a program to give you an insight into their week together.
In Closing
“Whoever brings blessing will be enriched,
and one who waters will himself be watered.”
Proverbs 11:25
May your life be rich in blessings for others today!
Briley Brooke Davis, a resident of Roseland, LA, passed away on June 1, 2026, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond, LA, at the age of 25. Briley was born May 12, 2001, in Hammond, LA. Briley is survived by her parents, Thomas Scott Davis and DeeDee Gill Davis, grandparents, Jerry and Diane Gill, uncles Jerry (Jay) Gill and fiancée Kacey and Steven Davis and wife Becky, and furbaby, Dovie. She is preceded in death by grandparents, Tommy and Frances Anne Davis, uncle, Brian Davis, and her very best furbaby, Heath Joseph.
Briley was the most beautiful soul, a child of God and follower of Jesus Christ, and was baptized at Kedron Baptist Church. Briley had many gifts, perhaps the best of which, was always seeing the best in everyone, and supporting others with all their dreams and aspirations.
Briley was a 2019 graduate of Oak Forest Academy as a valedictorian of her class. She received many academic honors, academic and athletic (archery) scholarships. She chose to attend The University of the Cumberlands in Willamsburg, KY, on an archery scholarship, majoring in Pre-Med and competing for the UC Patriots Archery Team, until covid and illness required her to return home. Briley enjoyed the outdoor lifestyle, especially years of great memories at the Tower Hunting Club in Arkansas and her family lake property in Mississippi. Briley was an accomplished archer, competing and winning on the state and national levels in 4-H, S3DA, NFAA and ASA.
Briley’s true passion was reading and writing and was an avid book collector and novelist. Briley had an angelic voice, and her renditions of various gospel, old country, and contemporary tunes were a joy to hear.
Visitation will be at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, on Saturday, June 6th, from 9am until religious services at 1pm, with Pastor Mike Foster officiating. Interment will be at Roberts Cemetery, Hillsdale, LA. Pallbearers will be Brayden Lee, Jesse Walker, Mario Campo, Micah Campo, Ethan Alston, Thomas Davis, and Levi Davis.
Please pray for her family.
Sherry Smith Bridges
July 12, 1961 – June 1, 2026
Sherry Smith Bridges, age 64, of Kentwood, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 1, 2026 at St. Helena Parish Nursing Home, Greensburg, Louisiana.
Sherry was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She will be remembered for her kindness, strength, faith, generosity, and the love she shared with those around her. She found joy in reading, cross-stitching, puzzles, spending time with her family, and, most of all, making memories with her grandchildren.
Sherry is survived by her loving husband of 42 years, Walter Bridges Sr.; her children, Walter Bridges Jr. and his wife, Anita, Angela Strickland and her husband, Colton, and Brian Bridges; her grandchildren, Adrian Strickland, Kaylynn Bridges, and William Brecheen; her sisters, Kathy Higginbotham, Debbie Matherne, and Lesa Cook; special niece, Jacey Lynn; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Hardy and Hazel Smith; and her mother-in-law, Evelyn Stafford Bridges.
A graveside funeral service will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at 1:00PM at Mt. Hermon Cemetery in Mt. Hermon, LA. Bro. Don Turner will officiate.
Pallbearers will be Larry Wall III, Mark Alexander, Adrian Strickland, Roger Higginbotham, Paul Matherne, and Todd Rodriquez.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to St. Helena Parish Nursing Home, Foundations Hospice, family, and friends for their care, compassion, love, and support during this difficult time.
Sherry’s love, strength, and memory will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved her
“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” Proverbs 19:21
Prayer Focus
Today, let’s pray for VBS, day three
Proverbs 19:21 reminds us, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” Pray the children learn and have a good time.at VBS this today.
Read the Bible in 2026
June 3
Deuteronomy 14-16
Obituary
James Edgar Davis
August 23, 1932 – May 31, 2026
On May 31, 2026, James Edgar Davis passed away peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, hard work, and devotion to his family. His steady presence, wisdom, humor, and unwavering love will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. He was always ready to tell a good story to anyone who would listen, which made you his fast friend. He was always a character, enjoying making others laugh. One of his most distinguishing characteristics was his giving heart. He would give you the shirt off his back, and sometimes he did! Born on August 23, 1932, in Spring Creek, LA, James dedicated his life to providing for and caring for those he loved. He served his country proudly in the Korean War as an Army medic. And while he was always a cattleman at heart, he owned his own heating and air-conditioning business, Jimsco, for 40 years. He employed many at critical times in their lives, giving them a leg up. His customers became loyal friends, which caused the business to thrive. Above all else, James was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His family was his greatest joy and highest priority. He led by example, teaching the importance of faith, responsibility, compassion, and perseverance through his actions. He became an incredible caregiver for his wife of nearly 65 years, Nell, during her last years battling Alzheimer’s. He adored his children and grandchildren and was so proud of them. His wisdom, strength, and steady presence provided comfort and guidance togenerations of loved ones. He is survived by his son, Max Davis, and wife Alanna; his daughter, Desiree Chamberlain, and husband Jonathan; his grandchildren Kristen Jacobs and husband Gabe, James Davis and wife Deanna, Treva Bouquet and husband Michael, Adah Chamberlain, and Davis Chamberlain; his great-grandchildren, Sam Jacobs, Maggie Jacobs, Nora Jacobs, and Felix Bouquet. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sylvia Nell Williamson Davis; his parents; brothers J.Q. Davis, Herman Davis, Arthur Davis, Delton Davis, Paul Davis, Devoyal Davis; and sister Bertha Stanton. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of faith, devotion, and hard work will continue to inspire all who knew him. His life was a testament to what it means to love God, love family, and serve others faithfully. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and religious services at 12:00 PM on Monday, June 8, 2026. Interment Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” I Peter 4:10
Prayer Focus
Today, let’s pray for peace, getting along, and being helpful to each other all around the world
Read the Bible in 2026
June 2
Deuteronomy 11-13
Obituary
Sherry Smith Bridges
July 12, 1961 – June 1, 2026
Sherry Smith Bridges, age 64, of Kentwood, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 1, 2026 at St. Helena Parish Nursing Home, Greensburg, Louisiana.
Sherry was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She will be remembered for her kindness, strength, faith, generosity, and the love she shared with those around her. She found joy in reading, cross-stitching, puzzles, spending time with her family, and, most of all, making memories with her grandchildren.
Sherry is survived by her loving husband of 42 years, Walter Bridges Sr.; her children, Walter Bridges Jr. and his wife, Anita, Angela Strickland and her husband, Colton, and Brian Bridges; her grandchildren, Adrian Strickland, Kaylynn Bridges, and William Brecheen; her sisters, Kathy Higginbotham, Debbie Matherne, and Lesa Cook; special niece, Jacey Lynn; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Hardy and Hazel Smith; and her mother-in-law, Evelyn Stafford Bridges.
A graveside funeral service will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at 1:00PM at Mt. Hermon Cemetery in Mt. Hermon, LA. Bro. Don Turner will officiate.
Pallbearers will be Larry Wall III, Mark Alexander, Adrian Strickland, Roger Higginbotham, Paul Matherne, and Todd Rodriquez.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to St. Helena Parish Nursing Home, Foundations Hospice, family, and friends for their care, compassion, love, and support during this difficult time.
Sherry’s love, strength, and memory will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Another Request
Pray for the Sanders family in the loss of a young man. The obituiary is not available at this time.
And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Matthew 28: 18-20
Southern Baptist Convention 2026
The convention will be held next week in Florida.
Vacation Bible School in Kentwood
There were 117 children present yesterday. I don’t have a count, but the number of workers, adults plus youth, is usually almost the same as the count of the children. Praise God.
If you know of some area children who were not there, please speak with the adults in the family. VBS runs from 8:30 to 11:30 again this morning.
Have a great day. How will God use you today?
Vacation Bible School?
Visiting others?
Praying from home?
Making phone calls?
Etc.
And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. But he who does wrong will be repaid for what he has done, and there is no partiality. Colossians 3: 22-24
Have a wonderful day as you choose how to pray. serve, and honor Him today.
Good morning. Here we go with a new day, a new week, and a new month.
Today’s Scripture
“Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!”
Matthew 4:19 (NLT)
Prayer Focus
Let’s pray for the children and adults who will be a part of VBS this week. May this be a good kick-off day for each one of them.
Read the Bible in 2026
June 1st
Deuteronomy 8-10
No New Obituaries Posted
Vacation Bible School
VBS begins this morning at 8:30 at FBC, Kentwood
Thanks to all who will work in VBS this week. Thanks to all the parents who will adapt their schedules to get their children there all week.
Pray for all involved each day.
Thank-You
Thank-you to Operation Christmas Child for recognizing FBC, Kentwood for being a drop-off site for other area churches for ten years. The plaque is so special! May our church continue to serve for many years.
Verse about Missions
“Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!”
“Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together!”
Psalm 34:3
Obituary
Elbert “Anthony” Rick
October 31, 1954 – May 29, 2026
Elbert “Anthony” Rick, a resident of Amite, Louisiana, passed away on Friday, May 29, 2026. He was born October 31, 1954, in Independence, Louisiana, and was 71 years of age.
Anthony is survived by his wife of 46 years, Melanie H. Rick; son, Elbert Anthony Rick II (Brittney); daughter, Sabrina R. LaMarca (Dustin); grandchildren, Brynlee Kate LaMarca, Case Anthony LaMarca, Sunny Chandler, and Alyssa Chandler.
Anthony is also survived by one sister, Barbara Perkins (Matt); four brothers, Frank Rick III, Danny Leroy Rick (Libby), Calvin Rick, and Matt Saragusa (Kay); sister-in-law, Judy Wallver (Barry); stepmother, Sandy Rick; aunt, Patsy Kimble; and numerous special nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by parents, Frank Rick Jr. and Juanita Rick; father and mother-in-law, Claude Hyde Sr. and Ethel Hyde; brother-in-law, Claude Hyde Jr. and wife, Sherry; brother-in-law, Robert Egnew; sister-in-law, Donna Rick.
Pallbearers are Anthony Rick II, Dustin LaMarca, Case LaMarca, Danny Rick, Trent Rick, and Frank Rick IV.
Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, on Monday, June 1, 2026, from 10 AM until Memorial Service at 2 PM. Services conducted by friend and brother, Dale Ziebarth.
Interment at Hyde Cemetery in Chesbrough, Louisiana.
Another Scripture
“Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together!”
Psalm 34:3
Read the Bible in 2026
May 31
Deuteronomy 5-7
Prayer Focus
Let’s prayer for God to use us for his service today.
Vacation Bible School
June 1-5
8:30-11:30
FBC, Kentfood
Registration at the church’s facebook page
Coming Soon – Youth and Children Activities
Contact the youth and/0r the children’s leadership to see what is scheduled.
Closing Scripture
“Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.”
Psalm 37:3
May your day be greatly blessed!
Anna Lee
Eleanor Morris’ sister, Evelyn Holden, passed away at the age of 85. Her wake will be at Walker Baptist Church tonight from 5-8 and tomorrow from 9-the 12:00 service. Please pray for this sweet family.
Elsie Evelyn Holden
July 15, 1940 – May 28, 2026
Denham Springs, LA – Elsie “Evelyn” Holden passed away on May 28, 2026, at the age of 85. She was a native of Holden, LA and longtime resident of Denham Springs, La. She has now gone to rejoin her late husband Wayne Barnett in their heavenly home as well as her parents James and Elsie Holden. She is survived by her son Richard Barnett (“Liz”); her grandchildren; Stacy Carpenter (Josh), Norman Barnett (Nicole), Devin Barnett (Haleigh); two great-grandkids, Cordelia Barnett and Madeline Carpenter. She is also survived by her three sisters, Eleanor Rae Morris, Sue Lavigne (Leslie) and Jimmie Foster (Alton) and numerous family members and friends.
The family would like to extend special thanks to Bridgeway Healthcare & Hospice and Amera Senior Living for all their care and compassion.
Family and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Services for Evelyn at Walker Baptist Church, 10696 Florida Blvd. Walker, LA 70785. A night wake will be on Sunday, May 31, 2026, from 5PM till 8PM. Visitation will resume on Monday, June 1, 2026, at 9AM with the funeral service beginning at 12PM. She will be laid to rest at Denham Springs Memorial Cemetery. Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Jason Vande Vuss, Peyton Vande Vuss, Parker Vande Vuss, Steven Thacker, Bret Higginbotham and Mark Cardon and the Honorary Pallbearers will be Norman Barnett, Josh Carpenter and Devin Barnett. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Walker Baptist Church Children’s Ministry in honor of Evelyn.
Welcome to another day. God allowed us to wake up this morning. What are we planning to do for Him today?
A Scripture for Today
“Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically.”
Romans 12:11 NLT
Sunday School Lesson for Tomorrow
May 31
“Our Savior”
Matthew 27:27-31 and 45-54
Sunday School begins at 9:15 at FBC, Kentwood
Prayer Focus
Today, let’s pray for all those who will be working in VBS this summer in all churches. May each one reflect God’s love and pass it on to the children. May children enjoy and learn from the efforts of the youth and adults. May their hearts be touched in VBS and changed forever. If any of the youth or adults who are at the church for any reason do not know and serve Him, I pray they learn from the lessons prepared for the children. What a VBS bonus!
Read the Bible in 2026
May 30
Deuteronomy 3:4
There are no new obituaries listed for today.
Baptist Press
This is one of the articles available for us to read this morning.
‘Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” Proverbs 16:3
Prayer Focus
Today, let’s pray for political leadership skills on all levels and all around the world. Let’s especially pray for those who are involved in seeking peace for anyone and everyone.
Read the Bible in 2026
May 29
Deuteronomy 1-2
In less than half of 2026, we have read all the New Testament and the first four books of the Old Testament. Today, we will begin another book of the Bible! If you skipped a day or a week or just haven’t started yet, that is no problem. Read the chapters assigned for today and each day ahead.
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed,
for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9
Pray for VBS
Today, let’s pray for all the adult leadership in our local churches. That will include many people because each VBS involves many adults. Say special prayers for the teachers.
Missions
There are mission projects going on in various churches all the time. Today, let’s pray for one.
Pray for the ladies of Montpelier Baptist Church as they collect canned goods which they will donate to the Hope Center for distribution as needed. Contact Montpelier Baptist Church for more information if you wish to support them in some way. Pray for those in our whole general area who are involved in ministering to others in a time of need. Getting involved in any way is a blessing!
Youth and Children
This time of the year is busy for our youth and children as well as their leadership in all the churches. There’s regular classes in addition to summer camps, associational meetings, mission projects, etc. Be an encourager to the youth and children in all of our churches.
Be an Encourager
Many people could benefit from encouraging words and actions. Be an instrument of encouragement in your church and community.
Thanks for reading, praying, doing, and encouraging today..
“In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'” Acts 20:15
Prayer Focus
Today, let’s focus on others, those around us and those who live far and ask. ourselves two questions:
What are their needs today?
What are their needs for the future?
Sometimes we don’t know their needs and just let God lead us as we pray.
Did you read the story about 15,000 people being baptized in 35 years? That title certainly caught my attention.
Coming Soon
VBS begins Monday morning at FBC, Kentwood. If the children in your family and/or neighborhood have not been registered, but would like to attend, you can register them online at the church’s Facebook page.
Yesterday’s Special Event
While David and I were in the shoebox area yesterday at church yesterday afternoon, an American missionary in another country sent a facebook message saying that she helped distribute shoeboxes in Peru yesterday morning. She even included a video of that happening. She contacted me because we place our church’s name and location on a tiny label inside of each lid. What a blessing to actually watch the boy open the shoeboxes we packed!!! The fact that the calendar said it was May 27., not December 25, did not take away any joy from the children.
I am so thankful to get to participate in the Shoebox Ministry. I am so blessed that I have seen a picture of one of the children who received a Kentwood shoebox for the second time and to begin to imagine all the friends who also received boxes and to then begin to comprehend how the GOOD NEWS of JESUS can spread in the classroom, home, family, and extended family. . . . Thank-you God for the vision of members of Rev. Billy Graham and Rev Franklin Graham’s family through Samaritan’s Purse.
(That is only the second time I have learned about the location and seen a picture of a child who received a Kentwood shoebox. I feel so blessed!)
Have a wonderful day as you “let your little light shine for Jesus today”!
‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ Acts 20:15b
The Prayer Link 
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