THE PRAYER LINK – Wednesday

Scripture

“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 20:35

Prayer Focus

Let’s pray for God to lead us to opportunities to help, serce, and guide mankind and that we would recognize the opportunities when He shows them to us. May we be givers and share our time, talents, opportunities, and love.

Read the Bible in 2026

  • May 27
  • Numbers 33 -34

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com

Missions

A mission is a specific, important task, duty, or overarching purpose assigned to an individual, group, or organization. It often defines a profound calling, an objective requiring strong dedication, or a formal assignment (e.g., military, aerospace, diplomatic, or religious work). [1, 2, 3]

Have you recognized the missions God has given you?

Are you involved in the specific mission God has given you?

Obituaries

Bette Janell Fitzwater McGehee

October 23, 1942 – May 24, 2026

A resident of Kentwood, LA, passed away on Sunday, May 24, 2026 at St. Tammany Parish Hospital in Covington, LA. She was born October 23, 1942 in Houston, TX and was 83 years of age. She was a member at East Fork Baptist Church and retired from Tangipahoa Parish School system as a para for 40+ years at Spring Creek Elementary. Bette was also Kentwood Dairy Queen of 1957. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Webster Noah McGehee; daughters, Ginger (Perry) Newman, Tammy (Sammy) Ott, Milissa (Tracy) Johnson, Penny (John) Saldana; sister, Shirley Forrest; grandchildren, Ashley (Kevin) Simmons, Colton (Brittney) Newman, Kirstie (Corey) Newman, Logan Johnson, Brady (Katie) Johnson, Kelsey (Jake) Fowler, Hailey (Tyler) Etheridge, Michael (Bonnie) Ott, and Daniel (Stephanie) Ott; great-grandchildren, Tanner, Laney, Lynlee, Tyler, Landry, Noah Claire, Jacy Kate, Banks James, Jayla, Juliana, Charlie, Rosie, Collins, Grayson, and Emma. Preceded in death by her parents, Emery “Pete” and Dana Fitzwater; brother, Gene Fitzwater; grandson, Morgan Easley; and nephew, Keith Forrest. Pallbearers are Colton Newman, Logan Johnson, Brady Johnson, Tanner Raborn, Tyler Simmons, and Brock Forrest. Visitation at East Fork Baptist Church from 9:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Friday, May 29, 2026. Services conducted by Rev. John Henry and Bro. Jay Avance. Interment East Fork Cemetery, East Fork, LA. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Maggie Ainsworth Easley

March 27, 1936 – May 26, 2026

A resident of Kentwood, LA, passed away on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at Oakwood Village in Zachary, LA. She was born March 27, 1936 in Tylertown, MS and was 90 years of age. She is survived by her sons, Craig Easley (Renee) and Gerry Easley (Jody Troxclair); grandchildren, Steven Easley (Melissa), Madelyne Easley Tate (Kaleb), and Molly Easley (Josh Andrews); great-grandchildren, Jax Easley, Eli Easley, and Kooper Tate; 2 brothers, Jerry Ainsworth (Charlene) and Dickie Ainsworth (Jean). Preceded in death by her parents, Louie and Thelma Ainsworth; husband of 65 years, Bobby Easley; brothers, Edward Ainsworth and Roger Ainsworth; sister, Liz Morgan. Visitation at New Zion Baptist Church, from 1:00PM until Memorial Services at 2:00PM on Friday, May 29, 2026. Services conducted by Bro. Larry Blades. Interment will take place at New Zion Baptist Church Cemetery at a late date. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Post Surgery

Rachel Buckley had shoulder surgery six days ago and is trying to overcome her present issues. Pray for a timely and complete recovery.

Pray for others recovering frrom surgery and other problems.

Supporting Missions and Ministries

I grew up loving to see Rev. Billy Graham in person and on television. Now his son, Franklin, is leading a very involved ministry that has grown and impacts people is so many ways. His organization is massive and worldwide. One aspect of his ministry is Operation Christmas Child. You know where I stand on being involved there. You may want to study how this massive Christian organization is involved and join in helping one or more of the teams and/or projects.

Look him up. Read about his various ministries. Find an opportunity that is a “fit” for you. You’ll be blessed as you help minister to so many people. How blessed I am to be a tiny part of such a ministry!

Put your time and talents to work! Be richly blessed as you see the outcomes of such an important ministry. The biggest difference in this ministry and other ministries that help people is that the plan of salvation is the key and common point. It’s sharing Jesus and helping others get to heaven!

Thank you for reading, praying, and being involved. Be a volunteer in a way that fits you to the current needs.

“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 20:35

Anna Lee

The Prayer Link – Tuesday

Good morning. I’m using my regular computer this morning. Hopefully, it will look more like my regular posts.

A Verse to Begin this Day

My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

— John 15:12–13, NIV

We are to love Him because he first loved us!

Prayer Focus

Let’s pray we all live a life that pleased Him and encourages others to do so.

Read the Bible in 2026

  • May 26
  • Numbers 31-32

Obituaries

Shelby Gene Alford

November 7, 1937 – May 20, 2026

Shelby Gene Alford was born on November 7, 1937 and entered his heavenly home on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. Shelby was one of the hardest working men you could ever meet. He graduated from LSU in 1959 with a degree in Forestry and Agricultural. He worked for the Louisiana Election Department for over 35 yrs achieving the level of Election Director. At the same time, he was running S & S Alford Pulpwood company 7 days a week for years. Upon retirement, he raised cattle for years and later started a hay business providing hay bales for friends and neighbors. He is survived by his 3 children, Mitchell K. Alford of Kentwood, Melissa A. Guagliardo (Jay) of Ponchatoula, Frances A. Rollins (Shannon) of Denham Springs; 9 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and expecting 1 great great grandchild; special friend, Peggy Crawford. He is preceded in death by his parents, Shelby (Bumbo) and Mattie Alford of Kentwood; His first wife and mother of his children, Jackie Alford; and his former wife, Katie Alford; granddaughter, Felicity L. Guagliardo; sister, Shirley A. Rowe; and 2 brothers in law, Richard McDaniel and Samuel T. Rowe. The family would like to  acknowledge and give special thanks to Modern Hospice and The Cottage Church in St. Helena Parish. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 11:00AM until religious services at 1:00PM on Saturday, May 23, 2026. Services conducted by Rev. Donnie Easley. Interment Alford Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. Pallbearers are Timmy Bates, Mark Easley, Joshua Anderson, Melvin Carlisle, Tyler McDaniel, and Doug Watson. A gathering with food and fellowship for family and friends will follow at The Cottage Church, 5794 Hwy 38, Kentwood, LA 70444. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Ferdinand Guy “Ferdi” Duplantier

December 30, 1945 – May 21, 2026

U.S. Veteran

Retired First Sergeant Ferdinand Guy “Ferdi” Duplantier, USMC, a proud Vietnam veteran, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, Louisiana, at the age of 80.

Born on December 30, 1945, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Ferdi was truly one of a kind, tough as nails, strong-willed, and never one to let life knock him down. A respected Marine, devoted family man, and friend to many, he carried himself with grit, humor, and quiet strength throughout his life. Those who knew him knew they could count on him, and those who loved him will never forget him.

Ferdi proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, retiring with the rank of First Sergeant after a distinguished military career that included service in the Vietnam War. He embodied the values of honor, discipline, and resilience long after his military service ended, earning the respect of everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Outside of the Marines, some of Ferdi’s happiest days were spent at his camp, “China Beach,” in Mount Hermon. A place filled with laughter, stories, family, friends, and memories that will live on forever.
 
He is survived by his daughters, Vicki Rae Duplantier and Roxy Duplantier Rivas and fiancé Boulan Guidry; grandchildren, Jenelle Duplantier and husband David “Robby” Robinson, Kyla Melvin, Marcos Rivas, and Adam Ferdinand Noto; and great-grandson, Dario “DJ” Carter Jr. He is also survived by his nephew, Fred “Freddie” Cavet; sons-in-law, Peter James Ott and Luis Rivas; sister-in-law, Linda Gibson; niece, Lori Billiot; and many extended family members and dear friends.

He leaves behind his devoted partner of 20+ years, Pauline Baham, who shared his life and heart, and the family he cherished as his own: daughters Jana Baham Matherne and fiancé Kevin Sharrock, and Joni Baham Kinney and husband Mike Kinney; and beloved granddaughters Olivia Matherne, Sofia Matherne, and Maci Kinney.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jeanne Fee Duplantier; his mother, Jean “Sally” Cousin Duplantier; and brother-in-law Lawrence Gipson.

Visitation will be held at Wilmer Baptist Church from 1:00 PM until memorial services at 2:00 PM on Monday, May 25, 2026. Services will be conducted by Bro. Jason Skipper. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com..

Thomas Bellavia

October 25, 1945 – May 21, 2026

Thomas Bellavia Obituary

Thomas Bellavia, age 80, passed away peacefully at his home on the Tangipahoa River in Amite, Louisiana, on Thursday, May 21, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 25, 1945, in Amite, Louisiana, to the late Kelly Charles Bellavia, Sr. and Mamie Macaluso Bellavia.

Thomas dedicated many years of service to the Tangipahoa Parish School System, where he served as Assistant Administrator until his retirement. He also proudly served as President of the Tangipahoa Parish Teachers Credit Union.

A man of deep faith and devotion, Thomas was a lifelong member of St. Helena Catholic Church. He faithfully served his church in many roles throughout the years, most recently as a Eucharistic Minister.

Thomas is survived his brother, Frank S. Bellavia, and his wife, Brenda Ardillo Bellavia.

He is also survived by his beloved nieces: Patty Bellavia, Jody Bellavia Hannah, Jacqualyn “Bird” Bellavia Duhon and her companion, Michael; Kim Bellavia Eiland and her husband, Eric; Jessica Bellavia Stant; JoAnne Ardillo Falcone and her husband, Vincent; and Michelle Bellavia, wife of the late Kelly Bellavia III.

He is further survived by his nephews: Joseph “Jay” Emile Ardillo and his wife, Keri; Thomas Frank Ardillo and his wife, Michelle; and Marc “Deke” Bellavia.

Thomas also leaves behind many loving great-nieces and great-nephews and his cherished godchildren: Joseph “Joey” Bellavia Duhon and his companion Anastasia; Kate Eiland; Gabriel “Gabe” Stant; Sarah Stant; Elizabeth Stant; Emma Bellavia; Jackie Bellavia; Joseph Ardillo; Jonathan Ardillo; Vincent Falcone III; Nikki Falcone; Joshua Falcone; Margaret Ardillo; Madeline Ardillo; Cindy Ardillo Ridgel and her husband, Tim; Richard “Ricky” Ardillo and his wife, Laura; Zachary Bellavia; Zoe Bellavia; Melissa Ficklin Clark and her husband Cori; Amanda Ficklin Mixon and her husband, Chad; Jason Ficklin; Jared “J-bird” Blake Richardson and his wife Grecia; Milo Richardson; Grant Richardson and his wife, Amanda; Gray Richardson; Susan Esteven McGraw; along with several great-great-nieces and nephews and many great-great-great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kelly Charles Bellavia, Sr. and Mamie Macaluso Bellavia; his siblings, Emile “Mutt” Bellavia, Angelee Bellavia Ardillo, Joseph “Joey” John Bellavia, Kelly Bellavia Jr., Jackie Bellavia, John Bellavia, and Jackie Bellavia II; his sisters-in-law, Nancy LaMarca Bellavia and Mary Vanettie Bellavia; and his brother-in-law, Nick P. Ardillo Sr.

He was also preceded in death by his nephews Roy S. Ardillo II, James “Rube” Ardillo, Nick “Nicky” P. Ardillo Jr., and Kelly Bellavia III (Little Kelly); and by his great-niece, Emily Bellavia.

Thomas will be remembered for his quiet strength, unwavering faith, devotion to his family and friends, and lifelong commitment to serving others. He touched countless lives through his kindness, generosity, and gentle giant spirit. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Gospel of Matthew

In lieu of flowers the family request all donations be made to St. Helena Catholic Church

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Premium Care and Modern Hospice.

Pallbearers will be Joseph “Joey” Bellavia Duhon, Eric Eiland, Marc “Deke” Bellavia, Joseph Ardillo Gabriel “Gabe” Stant, Louis Joseph, Dennis James “Denny” Currier, Jeremy Owen, and Charlie Bailey. Honorary Pallbearers will be Tom Ed Brumfield, Karen Merrick & Mickey Pugh, Mike & Rowana Currier, John Carl and Lou Hammons, Rory Hayden, Mark & Bess Kowle, Virgil Allen, Camille Russell, Sharon McDaniel Capdau, Chick & Shirley Jo Core, Ron Genco, Randall “Randy” Genco, and Salvadore “Sal” Santora.

Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, on Thursday, May 28, 2026 from 7:45AM until 11:00AM with a Rosary at 7:00AM by Judy Williams followed by eulogies by JoAnne Falcone and Louis Joseph. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Helena Catholic Church, Amite, at 11:30AM on Thursday. Services conducted by Fr. Reuben Dykes. Interment will be at Amite Memorial Gardens, Amite.

Debbie Hart Severio

October 28, 1962 – May 22, 2026

A resident of Ponchatoula, LA, passed away on Friday, May 22, 2026 in Slidell, LA. She was born October 28, 1962 in Kentwood, LA and was 63 years of age. She is survived by 2 daughters, Angela Breaux and husband, Lenny, and Alicia Assavedo and husband, Chad; 6 grandchildren, James Bankston, Hannah Bankston, Sarah Bankston, Kaylee Assavedo, Jace Assavedo, and Logan Assavedo; 6 brothers and sisters, Billy Hart and wife, Mel, Thomas Hart and wife, Rise, Patricia May and husband, David, Barbara Holliday and husband, Donald, Laura Doty and husband, David, and Susann Morgan and husband, Steve; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and other family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Danny Severio; parents, William and Patricia Hart; son, Willie Severio; and sister, Dorothy Hart. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 5:00PM until 8:00PM on Monday and from 9:00AM until Religious Services at 11:00AM on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. Interment Hyde Cemetery, Chesbrough, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com

Additional Scripture

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.” Ephesians 2:10

Operation Christmas Child

We will soon be meeting for another morning work time. If you have not participated before, but would like to participate, contact me.

Have a wonderful day sharing God’s love!

Anna Lee

THE PRAYER LINK – MONDAY

I hope you had a great Lord’s Day and have some plans to celebrate Memorial Day. I’m thankful for the special holidays our country has to celebrate some great Americans in our history. Those who willingly gave their lives for her existence are surely American heroes!

TODAY’S SCRIPTURES

I will always have hope. I will praise you more and more. Psalm 71:14

Accept my words. Store up my commands inside you. Look for wisdom as you look for hidden treasures.Then you will understand how to have respect for the LORD. You will find out how to know God. Proverbs 2:1-5

READ THE BIBLE IN 2026 TODAY

May 25

Numbers 28 – 30

MISSIONS

Choose to help with a group/church mission project or to create a personal project for yourself. Plan The Who, What, When, Where, etc. Get started on something that will bless your life in relation to the time and love you invest.

VBS COUNTDOWN

VBS at FBC, Kentwood is only one week away!

You are invited to become involved. Start by informing and encouraging others.

LKentwood is probably going to have lots of RAIN today. Stay dry.

Anna Lee

THE PRAYER LINK – SUNDAY

PRAYER FOCUS

Today, let’s focus our prayers on church services all around the world. I hope you spend some time in your favorite local church today for Bible study and worship.

READ THE BIBLE IN 2026

May 24

Numbers 26-27

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

Give your worries to the Lord, and He will take care of you. Psalm 55:22

When I am afraid, I will trust you. I praise God for him wonderful word. I trust God, so I am not afraid. What can human beings do to me? Psalm 56:3-4

If possible, attend church today in person. If not, there are some good online services to watch live or at your convenience later.

MISSIONS

Get informed about missions through your church. Then, get involved!

UPDATES

The updates I have received show improvement. Thank God for each improvement. Please keep praying for needs you are aware.

COMING SOON

Summer activities for children and youth including church services, camps, VBS, and other activities.

Area churches include worship services, group activities, music, etc. Choirs are also a part of most churches. You may enjoy the various choirs in most of the area churches.

REMINDER – VBS, 2026 begins in one week with sone being held in the mornings and some at nights. If you have children in your family, I hope you will encourage them to attend.

Have a wonderful day of serving, worshipping, studying, and honoring God today!

Anna Lee

THE PRAYER LINK – Saturday

SCRIPTURE

The Lord knows what people think. Psalm 94:11

PRAYER FOCUS

Today, let’s pray for those traveling, recovering from surgery, facing changes, etc.

READ THE BIBLE IN 2026

*May 23

*Numbers 23-25

OBITUARIES

-Shelby Alford

-Thomas Bellavia

-Shelby Gene Alford

-Ferdinand Guy Duplantier

BAPTIST PRESS

Read the articles that appeal to you.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURE

People should be happy and do good while they live.

Ecclesiastes 3:12

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

*FBC, Kentwood

*June 1-5

Call the church office for additional information.

MISSION PROJECT ALL YEAR LONG – OCC

Recent Progress – Working on decorating inside shoebox lids, socks for girls purchased, marbles counted and bagged, coloring books purchased!

Current Needs: socks for boys 10-14

Flashlights (crank style)

Composition books

Dolls

You can give Wanda Smith a donation to help with OCC purchases from Amazon.

Closing Scripture

He will increase the results of your good works.

II Corinthians 9:10

Thanks so much for reading, praying, and working on needs of groups or individuals.

Anna Lee

FRIDAY

Today’s Scripture

— Psalm 91:14

The Lord says whosoever loves me I will save. I will protect those who know me.

Please excuse photos.

Read the Bible in 2026

  • May 22
  • Numbers 21-22

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com

Prayer Focus

Rachel Buckley

Remember Rachel and her family.

Prayer for families as they make plans for a holiday weekend.

We have several friends with health issues. Please pray for my friends and for others on your prayer list.

Another Scripture

THe Lord knows what people think.

Psalm 94:11

Thank you for reading and praying.

Anna Lee

THE PRAYER LINK – WEDNESDAY

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.

— 1 Timothy 2:1-2, NIV

Prayer Focus

Today, let’s pray for families who are experiencing various health issues.

Let’s also pray for students who are finishing the current year of school. Many are making plans for summer jobs, traveling, visiting relatives, summer school, etc. Pray for them as a group and especially for those individuals you know.

Missions

We know we are to reach out to tell others about Jesus and to be involved in missions by doing certain tasks, by giving, etc. I hope you have found a mission project you can be involved in through actions, gifts, prayer, etc.

Read the Bible in 2026

  • May 20
  • Numbers 16-17

Obituaries

I didn’t find any new obituaries listed for our area today.

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com

Coming Soon

Vacation Bible School! What an important time in individual lives. Many children make a profession of faith during these summer weeks. Let’s be a part of giving the children opportunities to be involved in various aspects of church this summer.

Remember “Others” Today

Find ways to share Jesus and His blessings with others this week.

Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth — 1 John 3:18, NIV

Have a wonderful day!

Anna Lee

THE PRAYER LINK – TUESDAY

A Scripture for Today

My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

— John 15:12–13, NIV

Prayer Focus

Today, let’s focus on others.

  • I was asked to add Jean Easley’s name for prayer today. Please pray for her.
  • We need to keep praying the the little Simmons girl. David and I were at the home of Mrs. Barbara Hutchinson yesterday when she received the call that the surgery was finished, but not complete. Another surgery will be needed Wednesday to complete the process. That gives us time for more prayers. The family is greatly appreciative of your prayers and encouragement.

Obituary

Louise Morales Crusturner

August 20, 1930 – May 16, 2026

A resident of Greensburg, LA, passed away on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge, LA. She was born August 20, 1930 in Juigalpa, Nicaragua and was 95 years of age. Preceded in death by her husband, Sankey Lee Cruseturner; and her parents, Dolores Morales and Pudencia Solis Morales. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 10:00AM until Religious Services at 11:00AM on Friday, May 22, 2026. Interment Amite Memorial Gardens, Amite, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Baptist Press

Waylon Bailey Thought

Blessed are the Flexible

Read the Bible in 2026

  • May 19
  • Numbers 14-15

Prayer Focus

Today, let’s pray for students as they complete a school year and face the summer opportunities. I pray adults will make wise decisions about how the summer holidays are spent by each and every child (new opportunities, vacation time, learning a new creative hobby, time with distant relatives, reading, new friendships, VBS, camp, and much more. Let’s also pray for it to be a safe season for each and every child.

One More Scripture

“Jesus spoke to them again: ‘I am the light of the world. Anyone who follows me will never walk in the darkness but will have the light of life.'”

— John 8:12

Have a wonderful day as you serve Him and minister to others.

Anna Lee

THE PRAYER LINK – MONDAY

I trust you had a great day yesterday as you celebrated the Lord’s Day. Today, we welcome a new day. I wonder what great things He has planned for us.

Today’s Scripture

Dear children, let us not love with words or speech

but with actions and in truth.

— 1 John 3:18, NIV

Read the Bible in 2026

  • May 18
  • Numbers 11-13

Prayer Focus

Today, let’s pray for each other as we begin another week. Monday’s can be hard in the real world. Let’s pray this Monday will be a wonderful day for each other.

Obituary

David was told Marty Guy passed away. That is not listed as an obituary yet.

I will share this obituary with a Roseland/Amite connection.

Charles Estus Gatewood

February 19, 1936 – May 12, 2026

Charles Estus Gatewood died May 12, 2026 at home at the age of 90.

He was born in Bay St. Louis, MS on February 19, 1936 to Charles and Jessie Necaise Baynes.

After their deaths, he was adopted at age 6 by Aubrey and Mable Forbes Gatewood.

He was raised in Roseland and attended Amite High School where he met the love of his life, Barbara Spring.  He excelled in football.  As a senior, he was the Amite Warrior’s candidate for all-state honors with 146 carries for 955 yards and scored 58 points. Described as one of the mighty mites of the prep gridiron, he was 5’8” tall and weighed 155 lbs.

After high school in 1955, he and his best friend, HC Callahan enlisted in the United States Air Force. He excelled in every job he was assigned. His evaluations showed exceptional knowledge of processes, attention to detail, his insistence on maintaining the highest degree of professionalism in any area of assignments were some of his strengths.  He had a “can do better” attitude in every task he was confronted with. Some of his strongest assets were the use of sound judgment, his loyalty, keen sense of responsibility and his selfless devotion to duty.

He married his high school sweetheart on May 18, 1957. The Air Force took them to Salina, Kansas where Kelley was born, Fairbanks, Alaska where Jeff and Barry were born, then Roswell, New Mexico, Fort Worth, Texas and finally Biloxi, Mississippi.

After 23 years of active duty, including a tour of duty in Vietnam, he retired to Walker, LA. He started his next job as maintenance supervisor to the then Doctor’s hospital and later Parkland Hospital.

Livingston Activity Center was his passion for the next 18 years.  It was more than a job. He made a difference in their lives and they in his.  “Mr. Chuck” was truly loved. He cared about them and treated them with respect.

His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were a joy to him.  He loved to spend time doing things with them. “Pops” was always up for fun. He set a good example of how to be a grandfather.

Everyone who met or knew him enjoyed his good-natured, easy-going attitude. He was industrious and if something needed fixing, he would set about doing it. One of his famous sayings when faced with a challenge was “Oh, that’s easy.” He was a joyous soul who was always lighthearted, but a little mischievous. He will be truly missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Jessie Baynes, Aubrey and Mable Gatewood; sisters, Theda Baynes Lake, Essie Baynes Bourgeois; brother, Garland Baynes; grandson, Jeremy Gatewood and great-grandson Reilly Berger.

He is survived by his spouse of 69 years, Barbara Yvonne Spring Gatewood; children, Kelley Mitchell (Alan), Jeffrey Gatewood (Phyllis), Barry Gatewood (Tina); grandchildren, Jenny Mitchell Pastore, Ashley Mitchell Pittman (Alex); great-grandchildren, Caleb Gatewood (Katie), Lola Pastore, Frankie Pastore, Quinn Pittman, Colton Tate, Aiden Berger; and a host of family and friends.

Special thanks to the ladies of Healing Waters Sitter Services, LLC.; Sonja Foster, Balivia Willis, Peggy Howard and Kim Adams. You were such an inspiration of care, love and encouragement to Dad, Mom and us. I truly felt he was in great hands. Your reliance on your faith in Jesus to guide his care brought great comfort to me. I could tell he felt your love. Tammy Davis from At Home Care, LLC started just in time. You were a great asset in Dad’s last weeks and I know Mom will continue to need your loving care.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at McKneely Funeral Home in Amite, LA from 10:00 to 11:00.  Service to follow by his friend and “preacher” Mark Dunn then Military Burial at Spring Cemetery in Amite.

(I remember the Gatewood name, but not any particular individuals from my childhood. Charles Gatewood was a person my parents would have known.)

Special Prayer Request

Mrs. Barbara Hurchingson requested prayer for a great, granddaughter from the Simmons portion of her family. The child broke her hand playing softball. While having the break checked, testing showed another possible concern in that hand. Surgery, this morning, will give the doctors more information and a plan for treatment of the fracture. Please join in the praying for tis child.

Baptist Press

Choose what interests you to read this morning.

https://www.baptistpress.com

Coming Soon – VBS

Vacation Bible Schools will be held all across our communities in the coming summer months. The first one is usually at FBC, Kentwood which will be June 1-5 this year from 8:30 – 11:30 each day. Registration has begun online. If you need additional information, please contact the church office (229-8111).

The theme verse for the Lifeway VBS is “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” — Matthew 4:19 (NLT). That sounds like a lot of fun. Please encourage the children of your family to attend at least one VBS this summer.

What service can you be to others today?

Anna Lee

THE PRAYER LINK – LORD’S DAY

Happy Lord’s Day! Don’t forget to include Him today!

A Verse for Today

As we live here, we have to trust God. We do not yet see the things that belong to heaven. II CORINTHIANS 5:7, EASY

Sunday School Teaches the Bible to Us.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more from the book of Matthew this morning and to hear the pastor’s message as well, as to learn from the hymns we sign today.

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com

Prayer Focus this Morning

Pray for the opportunities available in all the area churches this morning. Let’s pray people take advantage of this opportunity in a chosen church today.

Read the Bible in 2026

  • May 17
  • Number 8-10

Obituaries

No new obituaries this morning!

Waylon Bailey Devotional

The Privilege of Prayer

http://waylonbailey.com/2020/10/10/the-privilege-of-prayer/

Additional Verse about Prayer

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” – Philippians 4:6

A Challenge for Today

When you are at church today and see someone you do not know, introduce yourself. Then ask about them. Write their name down and try to remember them. Call that person by name today and again when you see them. Keep your list of “new friends” handy to refer to as needed. If you know a couple things about them like family, location of home, job, etc., you will find it easier to speak to them the next time you see them and hopefully, you will remember something about them from each conversation. It not difficult! Pray now, then meet someone new today.

Be an encoourager today!

Anna Lee