John 14:27

Prayer Focus Today

Today, let’s remember caregivers. They might be older people or even younger people, neighbors, relatives, friends, or simply pray for those whose families hire them to care for someone. Situations vary, but helping those in need of care is a blessing to that person and often to family members of that person. Never forget, the caregivers often learn they are blessed so much too.

Others

I’ve been forgetting to mention a couple of people.

Mrs. Mildred Birch is home and welcomes company. Her family also encourages us to visit her at the Greensburg hospital and is so thankful for your prayers for her.

My cousin, Fran, is better and will soon be transferred to rehab. Thank you for praying for her and her family.

Josh and Mallory Womack Maggio are thrilled to announce their first child, as son, Carter, has arrived. Their families are thrilled too. Carter was born October 8th, 2024 at 11:37 A.M. weighing 7 lbs.2 0z and measuring 20.5 inches long.

Rebecca “Becky” Lynn Raborn Davidson

August 27, 1954 – October 6, 2024

Rebecca Lynn Raborn Davidson (Becky) transitioned from her mortal life to her eternal home in heaven on the evening of Sunday, October 6, 2024, at the age of 70. She passed away at her home, surrounded by her loved ones, who had diligently and lovingly cared for her in the months, weeks and days prior to her passing. She was a member of Emmaus Baptist Church in Tickfaw, La.

The oldest of four children, Becky was born in McComb, MS on August 27, 1954, to Bobby and Fay Raborn of Kentwood, La. Being the oldest child of her family set the standard of taking the lead in any given situation, which she continued to do throughout her lifetime. She was often the first one to offer her time and talent to anyone inside her family or community.

After graduating with honors from Valley Forge Academy in Louisana, Becky continued her education at Southeastern Louisiana University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting. With a lifelong love of learning, Becky chose a career in the field of education, where she excelled in the classroom for over 18 years. When out shopping or dining, she was frequently spotted by former students, who never hesitated to seek her out to tell her of the impact she had on their lives. During her illness, many students visited her or sent messages to thank her for the kindness, love and guidance that she so eagerly extended to them in her classroom.

Becky married Paul Davidson, the love of her life, on December 10, 1997. Their love for each other knew no boundaries, and that love was extended when they beautifully blended their two families, welcoming each other’s children into their hearts with unconditional love and creating a home full of love and acceptance.

After retirement, Becky eagerly became a homemaker; a job she excelled at in every aspect. She took great care to manage her home much like one would manage a 9-5 job and was insistent on maintaining immaculate flower gardens and exquisite home décor. There was no shortage of family gatherings at Becky’s home, with laughter ringing out from the pool during summer parties and the welcoming warmth of food and gifts at Thanksgiving and Christmas. Her hobbies included scrapbooking, reading, traveling the world making memories with her husband, and collecting Christmas Nutcrakers – a collection that was beautifully and proudly displayed in her home throughout the year.

Becky also had a great love for animals and was Mommy to many dogs throughout her life. Of special note is Petty, the beloved labradoodle turned canine caregiver. Petty unwaveringly held vigil by Becky’s side throughout her illness. He also played doorman and greeter to every person who visited, ushering them to Becky’s beside and jumping onto the bed next to her to serve as protector.

She was quick to remind everyone that her greatest hobby and most important job was loving her family. She considered it an immense joy to be a mother and grandmother and gained an extra zest for life upon the arrival of her great grandson, Grayson Paul, with whom she shared a very unique and special bond. Grayson behaved as a little adult during his Ninny’s illness – often reminding everyone that Ninny was sick and needed special attention, and rather than spend his time playing opted to snuggle with his great-grandmother.

Becky is preceded in death by her daughter, Amy Lobre, and her mother, Fay Hart Raborn.

Survivors include her husband, Paul Davidson of Tickfaw, La; her daughter, Amanda Lewis of Tickfaw; bonus children: Pricilla Davidson, Paul Davidson, Jr., Karen Davidson Ward, Debra Davidson Smith, Beth Gill Davidson Billot, Paula Davidson, and Kyle Davidson; grandchildren: Mallory Lewis (Todd), Brooke Stilley, Aaron Chambliss (Jennifer), and Sydney Stephens; great grandchildren: Lathan, Mason, Zayn, Grayson Paul and Kanon. She is also survived by her sister, Cindy Raborn of Covington LA, Bob Raborn of McComb, MS, and Bill Raborn of Summit; nieces and nephews: Dustin Stafford, Dana Thomas, Connor Raborn, Clay Raborn, Clint Raborn, and Brody Raborn; sister-in-law Missy Lester of McComb, MS.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Ms. Antoinette Pea, who first came to Becky as a hospice aide, but quickly found a place in Becky’s heart by making her feel safe and cared for. Becky looked forward to Antoinette’s visits, which frequently occurred even on days she was not scheduled to visit. Through their bond, Antionette became a source of comfort, strength and reliability for the entire family.

Services will be held at Brandon Thompson Funeral Home in Hammond, LA on Saturday, October 19, 2024, with visitation from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. and celebration of life at 4:00 p.m.

Duke Courtney McDonald

February 9, 1963 – October 9, 2024

A resident of Covington, LA, passed away on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at East Jefferson General Hospital in Metairie, LA.  He was born February 9, 1963 in Houma, LA and was 61 years of age. Duke always had a smile on his face and was loved by all that knew him. He will be missed. He was a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity at Northeast Louisiana University (now ULM) in Monroe, Louisiana. Everyone remembers his Datsun 280z automobile which was used to advertise our annual Pi KA event called “Road Rally”. He was always handsome, impeccably dressed, and had a car to match. He is survived by his parents, Guy Bentley “Bennie” McDonald, Jr. and Carolyn Fay Courtney McDonald; brothers and sister, Curt Bentley McDonald (Tina Michelle), Mark Tyler McDonald (Suzanne), and Julie Ann McDonald Groeneveld (Robert); nieces and nephews, Kristi McDonald Ganucheau (Chris), Tyler, Brian, Derek, and Mary Claire McDonald, and Austin and Alexandra Groeneveld. Visitation at St. Helena Catholic Church Hall from 9:00AM until 10:30AM with Funeral Mass at St. Helena Catholic Church at 11:00AM on Monday, October 14, 2024. Services conducted by Fr. Emilio Gomez. Interment Amite Memorial Gardens, Amite, LA. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Today is the day for the funeral services for Dennie Travis. His celebration of life will begin with visitation at Noon at Montpelier Baptist Church and the service at 2:00.

A Day of Preparation

Today is the final day of preparation for the Lord’s Day tomorrow. Take your time and do as much preparation as you can today so tomorrow is not stressful as the devil would have it be.

Thanks

I appreciate you reading and praying today.

Anna Lee