Category: Death Notice(s)

Sunday

Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said,

“We should go up and take possession of the land,

for we can certainly do it.”

~Numbers 13:30 NIV~

Callie Cole

Happy New Year!!  Hope you all have a wonderful new year filled with much joy!!  Joy in our heavenly Father and in the work He is performing among us! May you all see where He is working and join Him.
Sorry I have not posted in quite some time.  The holiday hustle and bustle along with a few new twists and I did well to keep up with my family and all their needs.
Had a great Christmas with Miss Callie.  She seemed to enjoy all the festivities.  I was very choosy during the holidays and did not get her out in public too much.  I admit that I am very leary of all the bugs going around.  I do not want to catch one and I certainly do not want Miss Callie to experience one at this time.  She had a sinus infection a couple of weeks ago and I was scared she had pneumonia.  Thank goodness she did not.
She is anxious to get back to a ball game but many of the players and friends are experiencing the flu and cough and cold.  So, we will probably wait a little longer to get through the worst part of the flu season.  Her teachers that come to the house have been sick.  My caregivers couldn’t work a couple of days due to a virus.  So, we wait.
Callie is having a hospital bed delivered Monday.  She has been working on rolling over to her side and has done very well.  She needs the rails to help roll and to strengthen her trunk.  She continues to experience right side weakness, but is getting rather good at using the left side.  For this, we are thankful.  We continue to pray and expect a full recovery.  Hope you are too.  Don’t stop believing.
Keep it real.

Love,
Frances

Avery Smith

Today has been such a blessing, but a very emotional day for us.  Today, one year ago, I clutched my lethargic baby tight, riding in the back of an ambulance, scared to death, not knowing why or what was in store for her.  I can remember like it was yesterday, feeling like I must have been dreaming, feeling like it was the worst day of my life.  I have been thinking about this day for quite some time, and I must admit, I have felt a lot of anxiety as it has approached.  I can’t understand why so much anxiety, because as I reflect on this year, I feel so gracious and that my life is so much more fulfilled.  We had such a wonderful holidays and we just enjoyed every moment, every smile on her face, like we were seeing it for the first time.

I must apologize for the lack of journaling.  When I stopped we had been in and out of the hospital, with no access to a computer, and I was by myself with Avery.  Being alone in the hospital with a toddler on a IV made even the simplest tasks more difficult.  When we got the “okay”, we made several trips to TX, so that we could spend some extra time with Daddy (not to mention Avery loves camping). I am so thankful for  Dr. Kanter, Claire, the nurses and staff for always going above and beyond, making this years journey more comfortable.  We have met so many amazing kids, and families this year that will impact our lives for a lifetime.    A huge thank you to such a wonderful community of friends and people, that in such a time of distress, came together to help, without even thinking twice.  Every donation, every letter, every card, and especially every prayer, is appreciated from the bottom of our hearts.  I am so thankful for a loving and supportive family, and as always, a shoulder to cry on.

This year has no doubt, been the most difficult, but also the best year of our lives.  I feel like I am seeing the world through totally different eyes.  We have learned to take each day at a time, and we appreciate every day God gives us. It is so sad to hear that so many people waste their time and energy on petty, silly things that don’t even matter.  I just wish that time could be spent thinking and praying for all of the special children and families that struggle through each day. We have seen first hand, how difficult times can bring families closer together, and some times they can tear them apart.  Aj and I have become so strong not only in our marriage, but also our bond with Avery.  Her treatments are not finished, but we are praying that the worst is over.  Avery is now in the maintenance phase of treatment, which she will continue throughout this next year.  We are now able to take most of her chemo and meds at home, so Life has somewhat gotten back to normal…we are only going to clinic every other week, and we don’t have to worry about low counts (unless there are any problems) I have started back with the frames, along with my little helper, of course.  Avery’s permanent hair is growing so fast, and she is so proud of it!     She is such an amazing little girl that is growing up so fast.  As I have said so many times before, she is my hero, and I am so thankful God allows us to share this life together.

Please continue to pray for Avery’s health and strength as we go through cold and flu season.  Please pray her spinal tap goes well on Monday, and please pray for her, as she will begin steroids again.  She has to be on steroids once a month, for several days, in which she never responds well.  They usually make her quite miserable, and cause some stomach irritation, so please pray for her comfort this week.  Thank you again for all who keep us in their thoughts and prayers. And, PLEASE PLEASE, continue to give blood.  Anyone can go to any bloodcenter and donate in honor of Avery Smith at Tulane Hospital for Children.  No matter what blood type…you are saving lives!!!

Fundraiser for Bailey Leon:       www.bucksforbailey.com Please continue to keep her in your prayers!

Mark your calendars for January 15th- we are having a Skeet Shoot and Live/Silent Auctions to raise money for Bailey! If interested in entering please call Cody Reed at 337-224-9122 or send an inbox message to this page. Entry fee is $100 which includes hamburger, chips & drink for the shooter. Tournament will be held at Cajun Elite Shooting Range in Jennings, LA.

Mr. Gordon Price continues go improve.  He has enjoyed having company.  Pray for him as he continues to receive treatment.

Sherry  Douglas

A resident of Independence, LA, died at 10:35AM on Saturday, January 8, 2011 at her home near Independence, LA. She was 44 years of age. Visitation at Lighthouse Baptist Church, Independence, LA on Sunday, January 9, 2011 until religious services Monday, January 10, 2011. Interment Lighthouse Cemetery, Independence, LA. Completed arrangements will be posted on Sunday, Jan. 9, 2011. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

Don’t forget the special celebration for Dr. and Mrs. Joe Baugh today at FBC, Kentwood.  Bro. Joe will retire after 42 years in the ministry.

Have a blessed Lord’s Day!

Anna Lee

Sunday Afternoon

Mary Alice Fox called to say Marilyn (Mrs. Lowery) Fox passed away yesterday. Graveside services will be held at a later time at the Lee Cemetery in Gillsburg.  I’ll post more when arrangements have been completed.  Please be in prayer for the family.

Dennis Mitchel “D.J.” Jackson, 18 years old of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, died January 1, 2011, in Ponchatoula

He was born on June 26, 1992, in Hammond,

Surviving are mother and step-father Lisa Simmons and Mitchel Simmons, father, Dennis Jackson, sisters, Jessica D. Jackson and Christa Champagne, brothers Jacob Simmons, and Jeremie Simmons and James H. Jackson nephews Cass Anthony and Maddox Graham, grandmother, Sylvia Jackson, grandfather, Boykin Jackson.

Friends will be received Monday, January 3, 2011 from 6:00 PM until 9:00 PM at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home in Hammond.

Services will be held at Funeral Home Chapel – Hammond, Tuesday, at 1:00 PM.

Interment will follow in the Parklawn Memorial Gardens Hammond, Louisiana.

Wednesday Afternoon

Pat Smith

She had a scope but down her to determine how big the tumor was and to biopsy it for cancer and other test. We got our miracle! Not only is it not connected to her liver but also it is not on her pancreas. In addition, the great news is it can be removed. The Dr’s said it was in the only place that it could be surgically removed. She will know next week where she will go to have the surgery.

Please keep her on the prayer list and I will keep you informed about her progress.

Betty June M. Cutrer

Charles Don Hart

(December 14, 1944 – December 29, 2010)

A resident of Amite, he died at 6:29 a.m. on Wednesday, December 29, 2010 at his home in Amite. He was born December 14, 1944 in Brookhaven, MS and was 66 years of age. Mr. Charlie was a veteran local broadcaster for 50 years as the voice of WABL ,1570-AM in Amite. Hart will be remembered for his unique, fun-style of local radio that was guaranteed to bring a smile to the face of any listener, including small children who laughed out loud at his dry but wacky humor. His meticulous local weather reporting literally put Amite on the map; Because of his fascination with and devotion to meteorology, WABL served as a National Weather Service reporting station, with an official rain gauge, barometer, and thermometer outside the building that housed the studios on Bankston Road. In September of 1985, new owners acquired the station and Hart became deeply involved in local news reporting, an avocation he maintained for the rest of his life. The late Tom Gillen of Baton Rouge, who literally founded the public relations industry in Louisiana in 1945, and veteran political activist Henry Harrison of Pumpkin Center, bought WABL to turn it into the flagship of a local news operation. For the next three years Hart worked closely with perennial local journalist Ken Benitez, a relationship that lasted until Hart’s last day on Earth. He is survived by his 2 aunts, L’Na Cox, Amite and Cary Staton, Brandon, MS; numerous cousins and friends. Preceded in death by his mother and step-father, Leonora and Jesse Reynolds; father, Charles Hart; sister, Scarlett Reynolds. A graveside service will be held at a later date at Cold Springs Cemetery, Bogue Chitto, MS.

Wednesday

They entered the house

and saw the child in the arms of Mary, his mother.

Overcome, they kneeled and worshiped him.

Then they opened their luggage and presented gifts:

gold, frankincense, myrrh.

~Matthew 2:11 (MSG)~

Baptist Press Stories
—————————————
  • NATIVITY SCENES: ‘A valuable witness to society’

http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34319
  • CHRISTMAS: A stolen Christmas tree

http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34320
  • In Vietnam, Lottie Moon gifts leave lasting legacy, transcending the ‘dark years’

http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34321
  • Refugee ‘limbo’: White House urged to act

http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34322
  • Protect Iraqi Christians from extinction, international group urges Obama

http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34323
  • My Legacy of Faith: ‘whole life stewardship’

http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34324
  • RESOURCE: Scriptural guide for confession of sin

http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34324#mce_temp_url#

  • WORLDVIEW: What Christmas is all about

http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34326
  • FIRST-PERSON: People still ask …

http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34327
  • FIRST-PERSON: Fighting complacency in a Christmas-saturated world

http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=34328
Lottie Moon Christmas Offering
Henry L. Rodgers
(May 15, 1939 – December 27, 2010)

Henry L. Rodgers was born on May 15, 1939 and passed away at 9:17 p.m., Monday, December 27, 2010 at Specialty LTCH Hospital, Hammond. He was 71, a native of Fort Adams, MS and a resident of Amite.

He is survived by 2 daughters, Mary R. McNeese and husband Steve, Kentwood & Bobbie Nell R. Corkern and husband Terry Wayne, Kentwood; step-daughter, Penny Coon, Kentwood; son, Tommy Rodgers, Kentwood; 8 grandchildren, Ruby Ann Rodgers, Steve McNeese, Jr. and wife Danielle, Stephanie Michelle McNeese, Milton McNeese, Lisa Ann Corkern Blunt and husband Elvis, Keri Lynn Corkern Ricks and husband, Aron, Crystal Gayle Corkern 7 Teresa Michelle Corkern; 2 step-brothers, Joe Higgins & Richard Travis.

Preceded in death by his parents, wife, Shirley Jean Miller Rodgers; son, Larry Lee Rodgers; granddaughters, Destiney McNeese & Peggy Sue Corkern.

Visitation at McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Thursday, December 30, 2010 from 9:00 a.m. until Celebration of Life Worship Services at 11:00 a.m. in the funeral Home Chapel with Deacon Mike Agnello officiating. Interment in Thad Miller Cemetery, Mt. Hermon, LA.

An on-line Guestbook is available at ww.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home is located at I-55N (Exit 46) and Hwy 16W next to Hood Chevrolet and behind Mr. Tom’s Car Wash, Bond Eye Clinic and Holiday Inn Express.

Mrs. Earline Holland Jones
(August 29, 1923 – December 27, 2010)

Mrs. Earline H. Jones a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great great-grandmother was born August 29, 1923 and passed away at 11:30 a.m., Monday, December 27, 2010 at her residence surrounded by her loving family. She was 87, a native of Waynesboro, Ms. and a resident of Amite.

Mrs. Earline is survived by daughter, Ruth J. Stokes and husband Harold, Amite; 3 grandchildren, DeRenda (Dee Dee) Gill and husband Harrison, Amite, DaWanna Schultz and husband Leonard, Amite, and Shelby Shane Stokes, Amite; 8 great grandchildren, Justin Bennett and wife Natalie, Amite, Cody Ellis and wife Monique, Collinsville, IL, Daniel Bennett and wife Ashley, Amite, David Ellis, Amite, Rebecca Rose Davis, Amite, and Molly Gill, Amite; 6 great great-grandchildren, Haley Liebert, Amite, Hannah Bennett, Amite, Myley Ellis, Collinsville, IL, Blake Bennett, Amite, Brinley Ellis, Collinsville, IL, Daniel “Danny” Blayne Bennett, Jr., Amite. Close Family Friends – David, Katie & Samantha Davis.

Preceded in death by parents, Arthur and Gladys Waller Holland; 2 sisters, Beatrice Holland and Mary Lea Davis; 3 brothers, Collin Holland, Willie Holland & Arthur Holland, Jr.

Visitation at McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home on Wednesday, December 29, 2010 from 9:00 a.m. until Celebration of Life Worship Service at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Dennis Walker and Bro. Trey Fuller officiating. Interment in Amite Memorial Gardens, Amite, LA.

An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home is located at I-55N (Exit 46) and Hwy 16W next to Hood Chevrolet and behind Mr. Tom’s Car Wash, Bond Eye Clinic and Holiday Inn Express.

Have a great day!
Anna Lee

Sunday Afternoon Again

Janice Guy Raybourn

(March 3, 1941 – December 25, 2010)

A resident of Mt. Hermon, died at 11:15 p.m. on Saturday, December 25, 2010 at her home. She was born March 3, 1941 in East Fork and was 69 years of age. She was a member of Sunny Hill Baptist Church and was active at Line Creek Baptist Church. She is survived by her husband, Adren Raybourn; 2 sisters, Geneivia Buras and Dianne Wall, all of Mt. Hermon; She was like a mother and grandmother to numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Glen and Ruby Pierce Guy; 3 brothers, Donald, Wayne and Stanley Guy. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Monday and from 9 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, December 28, 2010. Services conducted by Rev. Ken Irvin. Interment Line Creek Cemetery, Line Creek.

Sunday Afternoon

Mrs. Una Mae Zachary

January 26, 1924 – December 26, 2010

Mrs. Una Mae Zachary was born January 26, 1924 and passed away at 6:08 a.m., Sunday, December 26, 2010 at Landmark Nursing Home, Hammond. She was 86, a native and resident of Montpelier, a lifelong member of Montpelier United Methodist Church & a member of National Horticultural Society.

Mrs. Una Mae is survived by 2 daughters, Patricia Z. Hutchinson and husband Hutch, Springfield & Fay Zachary, Hammond; son, Danny Zachary, South Carolina; 8 grandchildren, David D’Angelo, Bekah McAllister, Michael Varnado, Benton “Duke” McNabb, Mary Louise Duhon, Davelyn Zachary, Desiree Zachary & Cali Zachary; 8 great-grandchildren, Erika D’Angelo, Hannah McAllister, Madeleine McAllister, Benton “Coty” McNabb, Andrew Duhon, Cassie Duhon, Zachary Davis & Dane Davis; a great great-gandson, Dakotah Yates.

Preceded in death by parents, Daniel Joseph and Ella Wren Grantham; husband, Erwin Prentiss Zachary; son, Darrell Zachary.

Visitation at Montpelier United Methodist Church from 9:00 a.m. until Celebration of Life Worship Service at 11:00 a.m. with Interment in Montpelier Cemetery.

An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

Sunday

Glory to God in the highest,

And on earth peace,

goodwill toward men!

~Luke 2:14 (NKJV)~


“It makes no difference who you are or where you’re from –

if you want God and are ready to do as he says,

the door is open.”

~Acts 10:35 MSG~

Mr. and Mrs. Albert (Mattie) Bishop are hospitalized in Hood Memorial. Please keep them and their daughter, Sally, in your prayers.

Madyson Grace Watts

http://www.actionnews17.com/News/tabid/59/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/5089/Loranger-family-gets-Christmas-wish-as-miracle-child-comes-home-following-accident-rehabilitation.aspx

Petey Harper

Graveside Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, December 26th at 2:30 p. m. at the Arcola – Roseland Cemetery with Rev. Brady Whitton officiating.

Friends and relatives are invited to the home of David and Keri Wickham immediately following the service for a memorial reception.

Lottie Moon Christmas Offering: Children’s Videos

http://www.imb.org/main/downloads/page.asp?StoryID=8660&LanguageID=1709

Have a great Lord’s Day!

Anna Lee

Christmas Eve

But the angel reassured them.

“Don’t be afraid!” he said.

“I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people.

~Luke 2:10 (NLT)~

Jason’s Story: Boston Results

We are now home and finally get to relax and spend time with family. Our appointment went really well in Boston. We are making a few changes to my diet. We are going to spread my meals out so that I get to eat 5 times a day. Hopefully that will help me eat my food. We are also getting some meals planned that have baby food vegetables and fruits. By doing this we hope to get me to eat some more fruits and vegetables. Right now I’m only eating apple sauce. We still haven’t noticed any change in my seizures. The neurologist want to give it another 2-3 months. If we don’t see any change we will stop the diet. I have been on it for about 2 month already. They said the diet just doesn’t work on some people. We are not giving up yet though. We will continue to try and pray that we can get these seizures down. I did go a little over a week without seizures at night but they came back a couple of nights ago. We got some more test results that they did back in October. The genetic test that we did came back normal. Now we are just waiting on the CDKL 5 genetic test to come back. We got the official results of my 3T MRI. While we were there they said everything looked normal. Well when the neurologist got together and studied it they found a POSSIBLE malformation in the left post lobe of my brain. They are not sure what this is because I’m so little. They want to repeat the 3T MRI sometime in April once my brain has grown some more. They are hoping it will be clearer then and then they will be able to determine what the are seeing. They also want me to go see an orthopedic for my feet. My toes turn down a little and they want us to get it checked out. While I was in Boston they did more blood work. My blood work showed that my CO2 level is low so they started me on PolyCitra to help regulate my CO2. They said this is common when babies are on the ketogenic diet and take topamax. My blood sugar was also a little low but nothing to be concerned about. So, so far all this diet has done is cause more problems. All you keto fans don’t get mad at me. I know you have to give it time but its been horrible for us. We are working on making it better. I am still on the new medicine Vimpat. It has not helped yet but my neurologist still want to give it some more time. So it looks like we have another failed medication. Here is the list of failed medicines:
1. klonopin
2. prednisolone
3. ACTH (2 rounds)- didn’t help seizures but helped EEG
4. keppra
5. topamax
6. trileptal
7. clobazam
8. vimpat
9. banzel
All of these helped at first and then stopped. I’m still on keppra, topamax, banzel, and vimpat. We are slowly getting rid of the ones that aren’t working. So I think I have updated you on everything. Please continue to pray for me. I keep thinking that we didn’t get our miracle in 2010 but the more I thought about it, I think we really did. I went from not being able to hold my head up to sitting up and being just as alert as a normal 15 month old. So no we didn’t get our seizure miracle but we came farther than anyone expected. I still believe we will get our seizure miracle one day. I’m leaving you with a picture of me trying to catch the snow at the airport in Boston. It was absolutely beautiful. Everyone have a great Christmas.

Frances Gay is working to get the proper coumadin levels.  Pray for her.

Continue your prayers for Ashlyn Neal and her family as they try to rest her brain and overcome the concussion.

Pray for Mr. Earl Dees.  Is is in CCU at OLOL after having surgery yesterday.

Billi Jo Eyer
(May 2, 1982 – December 23, 2010)

Billi Jo Eyer was born May 2, 1982 and passed away at 9:13 a.m., Thursday, December 23, 2010 at her residence. She was 28, a native of Independence and a resident of Amite.

Billi Jo is survived by 3 sons, Gregory Rowell, Albany, Bryce and Gaige Eyer both of Amite; mother, Connie Bennett and husband “TJ”, Amite; father, Billy Eyer, Roseland; sister, Suzanna Calhoun and husband Matt, Kentwood; half sister, Dawn Eyer, Baltimore, Maryland; step-sister, Marilyn Gayle Wright and husband, Chris, Loranger; step-brother, Tommy Bennett and wife Angela, Franklinton; grandmothers, Francis Hughes, Roseland and Dorothy Eggers, Roseland; numerous aunts, uncles and extended family.

Preceded in death by a half sister, Danielle Eyer; step-brother, Jason Bennett and grandfather, Chester Hughes.

Visitation at McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Sunday, December 26, 2010 from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and on Monday, December 27, 2010 from 8:00 a.m. until Celebration of Life Services at 1:00 p.m. in the funeral home Chapel with Rev. David Cutrer officiating. Interment in Killian Chapel Cemetery, Amite, LA.

An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com.

Bobby Clyde Cheek

(May 7, 1938 – December 23, 2010)

A resident of Pine Grove, he died on Thursday, December 23, 2010 at Hood Memorial Hospital in Amite. He was born May 7, 1938 in Midnight, MS and was 72 years of age. He worked for Rebel Sand and Gravel for 32 years. He is survived by, wife of 50 years, Georgia Mae Baker Cheek, Pine Grove; 3 daughters, Elizabeth “Ann” Cheek and her fiance’, Melvin Roe, Watson, Margaret Cheek Rutland and her husband, Robert W. Rutland, Pine Grove, and Barbara “Boo” Cheek Rutland and her husband, Roger Rutland, Pine Grove; 4 grandchildren, Kris Rutland, Watson, Samantha Ellzey Thompson, Fayetteville, NC, Blair Oliver Davis, Watson, Ashley Rutland, Baton Rouge; 3 great-grandchildren, Breeanna Thompson, Fayetteville, NC, Hannah Davis, Watson, and Konner Rutland, Watson; brother, Jimmy Cheeks and his wife, Cara Faye Cheeks, Denham Springs; numerous nieces and nephews including a special niece, Georgia Mae Papizan, Watson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Maudie Mae Sheffield Cheeks; sister, Marie Bankston; brother, Ernest Cheeks, Jr. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9 a.m. until religious services at 2 p.m. on Monday, December 27, 2010. Services conducted by Rev. Danny Carter. Interment Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Pine Grove.

Thinking inside the box

Lots of kids are homeschooled. Joseph Daniels is, too. But his schoolroom is a little different. Joseph goes to school in the very large box that his family used to ship their belongings to their new home in Kenya. With help from the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering, Joseph has a $20 chalkboard, a $25 desk and chair and $30 worth of art supplies.

For three or four hours every weekday, Joseph is taught by his mom. Her name is Sandra. She teaches Joseph how to add and subtract, and how to write. Sandra also helps him learn about the world outside his schoolroom box. With her, Joseph has learned about several countries and she’s taken him on fun field trips.

At an animal orphanage, Joseph saw baby elephants and a baby rhinoceros. Not far from his home, Joseph can see giraffes, warthogs and zebras. At night, he can hear the “whop,” “whop” sound the zebras make.

“That is the beauty of homeschooling,” Sandra says. “Everything we do teaches him something new. Like watching a cow eat grass, Joseph knows how the stomach works to process the food.”

Joseph’s dad helps him learn, too. One night they went outside to see the stars that make up the “Big Dipper.” During a day trip, Joseph helped his dad share vitamins and Bible stories with the Samburu people who live in Kenya.

International Missiona Board

Lottie Moon Christmas Offering

Have a great day!

Anna Lee

Tuesday

“And suddenly there was with the angel

a multitude of the heavenly host praising God

and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!’”

~Luke 2:13-14, ESV~

Betty Allen continues to need our prayers.  She is back at Kentwood Manor.

Don’t forget to pray for Stacey Scarle as she has surgery this morning at 8:30.

Reaching Russia

“The devil is dead set against the Udmurt people hearing the Gospel message,” says IMB missionary Marc Hooks.

Marc works with unreached people groups in Russia. He plays many roles on the field: media producer, pastor, church planter, husband, father, friend. He’ll do what it takes to spread the Gospel, in spite of the difficulties.

Ministry to the Udmurts has been particularly difficult. On almost every trip, he and other Christian workers face problems like canceled flights, immigration barriers and other logistical problems. He has experienced the spiritual warfare that denies this unreached people group the chance to know the truth of Jesus Christ. “[On trips,] we go between euphoria and utter discouragement.”

Marc says it would be easy to give up and stop going to the Udmurts. But he also knows that God intends to continue the work He’s begun. “That pushes us to our knees. The Udmurts will only be saved by prayer.”

It costs about $850 a week to support Marc and other missionaries for one week. Will you pray? Will you give generously so that Christians can fight against the darkness in Russia and bring the light of Christ to the unreached?

Darell Ray Harper, 59, of Ladson, entered into eternal rest on Monday evening, December 13, 2010 at his residence. The relatives and friends of Mr. Darell “Pete” Ray Harper are invited to attend his Celebration of Life Service, 2:00 PM Saturday, December 18, 2010 at the James A. McAlister Chapel, 1620 Savannah Highway. The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM until the time of service. Mr. Harper was born on Friday, January 19, 1951 in Hammond Louisiana, to Vera Maxine Primes Harper and the late Walter Green Harper. He served in the National Guard from 1969 to 1973, after graduating from Amite High School. He was employed with Godwin Pumps in North Charleston for the past 13 years. Darell is survived by his companion and special friend, Gail Millikan of N. Charleston, SC; Mother, Maxine Harper of Roseland, LA; son, Brian Harper of Hanahan, SC; three daughters, Carolina Harper of Hanahan, SC, Kim Parent and husband David of Hammond, LA, and Gwen Pedelahore and husband Kenny of Livingston, LA; Three grandsons, Kade, Keegan, and Kamden Pedelahore; two step granddaughters, Amanda and Rebecca Parent of Hammond, LA; sister, Keri Wickham and husband David of Amite, LA; brother Walter “Bo” Harper and wife Linda of Amite, LA. He is also survived by three nephews, Justin Barrilleaux and his wife Amanda of Holden, LA, Blake Barrilleaux and his wife Traci of Columbia, SC, Kevin Harper of Amite, LA, and many extended family. The family would like to give a special thanks to Ricky Baxley, employees of Godwin Pumps, and Piedmont Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Melanoma Research Foundation, 1411 K Street, NW Suite 500, Washington, DC 20005, (800) 673-1290 or (202) 347-9675. Mr. Harper’s guest book may be signed at Jamesamcalister.com. Arrangements are by the JAMES A. MCALISTER FUNERAL HOME, (843) 766-1365

Graveside Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, December 26th at 2:30 p. m. at the Arcola – Roseland Cemetery with Rev. Brady Whitton officiating.

Friends and relatives are invited to the home of David and Keri Wickham immediately following the service for a memorial reception.

An on-line Guestbook is also available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

Be a blessing to others today.  Remind them of the real meaning of Christmas.

Anna Lee

Monday

“And suddenly there was with the angel

a multitude of the heavenly host

praising God and saying, ‘

Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!’”

~Luke 2:13-14, ESV~

Jadon’s Story

Sorry I haven’t updated but I have not been able to get to a computer. I’ve been really busy. Let me go back about a week ago. We were scheduled to go to Boston and we never made it due to the weather. We did get to go to Houston Thursday. We saw the herbologist. She showed us some different massages to do to help stimulate my brain. She also showed my mommy how to use the creams and supplements that she sent. She wants to train my brain to ignore the seizure area. If we can do this, then the seizures will slow down. She showed us a 14 point pressure point routine that helps send messages to my brain. It basically helps the brain to work. We are very impressed with the knowledge that this herbologist has and we believe she can help me get better. While we were in Houston we stayed with Mr. Andy and Mrs. Rhonda Cobb. We were so thankful to get to stay and visit with them. We even had time to go see Santa while we were there. We also got lots of good information from the herbologist. We got home Friday night and left again today. We are now in Boston. We are staying at the Devin Nicole house tonight and our appointment is in the morning. We will see a neurologist, dietitian, and nurse. We are excited about seeing this keto team and we hope they can help me with this diet. Please pray that we have a great appointment tomorrow. Now a quick update on my seizures. My seizures are a little better. I haven’t had any at night in over a week. I’m still having alot during the day. Somewhere between 70-90. So they are better but still way to many. I’m definitely more alert since I started the supplements from the herbologist so that is great news. I’m also almost completely off my keppra. We think the keppra was increasing my seizures. As soon as we lowered it I stopped having seizures at night. So as you can see we have been very busy. Sorry I haven’t update my prayer warriors. I’ll try to do better 🙂 We love all of you and please continue to pray for me!!!

Mr. Burnell Simpson was hit be a vehicle while walking in Amite.  He has been checked out and is okay.  Pray he will recovery quickly and completely.

Ashlyn Neal, daughter of Bruce and Melissa, is recovering from a concussion.  Please keep her and her family in your prayers.

Lottie Moon Christmas Offering

Ramona in Rio

When you think about raising children, you probably don’t think about moving to a dangerous community. But to follow God’s plan for their lives, Eric and Ramona Reese had to be obedient and move to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to work with the urban poor. They minister to people in the “favelas,” or slums where drug dealers, prostitutes and gang members crowd the narrow streets.

In spite of the dangers, the Reeses don’t question God’s call for them to live in Rio. Though many of the places Eric goes are too dangerous to bring the rest of the family (which includes daughters Gloria, 12, and Alicia, 9), God has given them a peace about staying right where they are.

Ramona is a protective mother, of course, and she is grateful for the ways Southern Baptists give to support her family. In addition to providing the condominium where they live, gifts to the Lottie Moon offering pay the $153 per month condo taxes.

“The taxes keep the security guards watching us as we live in the housing condominium. In a city as violent as Rio, safety is a major concern. It is a very strategic place where we live. It enables us to get to the favelas to minister quite fast. It also enables others to visit us easily. I am thankful for our security guards and for Southern Baptists who pay our condo taxes.”

The Reeses are bringing the Gospel to the people who need it the most. When we give to support them and offer their family peace, they have the chance to bring the Prince of Peace to Brazil.

Kenneth Russell (Feltman) McDaniel

December 24, 1964 – December 17, 2010

Kenneth Russell (Feltman) McDaniel passed away Friday, December 17, 2010 at 5:45 pm at Baton Rouge General Hospital.  He was a native of Independence, LA and a resident of Denham Springs, LA.  He was employed at Baton Rouge General Hospital.

He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Joyce Smith McDaniel, two daughters, Lida Marie McDaniel and Neil Bullock, and Rebecca McDaniel, all of Denham Springs, the lights of his life, grandson, Donovan Bullock and granddaughter, Zoe’ McDaniel.  He is also survived by a brother and sister-in-law, Mike and Shelly Feltman of Ponchatoula, LA, sister and brother-in-law, Becky and Malone Williams, Kentwood, and sister, Kathy Feltman, Baton Rouge, and mother-in-law, Lois Cutrer.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert K. McDaniel, Jr. and Evelyn W. McDaniel, 2 infant sons, a sister Byrl McDaniel, and a brother, Bill McDaniel.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, December 28 from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at Rabenhorst Funeral Home, 11000 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA.

Gladys Young Frazier Lindsey

December 18, 1918 – December 16, 2010

Born December 18, 1918, passed away leaving her love ones on December 16, 2010 at the age of 91 at St. Helena Parish Hospital. She is survived by 4 daughters, Zula Hobgood of Ethel, LA, Murline Welch of Greensburg, LA, Joyce Strahan of Hammond, LA, and Deloris Schroeder of Livingston, 2 sons, R. J. Frazier of Mt. Hermon, LA and Jimmy Lindsey of Springfield, LA, 22 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, and 33 great-great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, Mamie and Richard Young, 2 husbands, Percy Frazier and Clyde Lindsey, a son-in-law, A.E. “Buddy” Hobgood, and granddaughter Ruby Hobgood Fletcher, 3 sisters and 5 brothers. The family would like to express a special appreciation to Dr. A. J. Varnado and the staff of St. Helena Parish Hospital and Nursing Home. Visitation at New Zion Baptist Church, Kentwood, after 6 p.m. on Sunday, December 19, 2010 until religious services at 11 a.m. Monday, December 20, 2010. Services conducted by Rev. Joe Day. Interment New Zion Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements.

Jesus is the reason for the season!

Anna Lee