Category: Death Notice(s)

The Lord’s Day

“The LORD does not look at the things people look at.

People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”

~1 Samuel 16:7 (NIV)~

 

 

 

Pray for Barrett and Ruby Travis and family.  Barrett is at North Oaks being checked to see if he possibly had a stroke.

 

 

 

Continue to pray for families in which a member needs to be hospitalized or undergo surgery.  There a severe limitations on family visitors.  This is very difficult for everyone.  If you know someone in this situation, be an encourager to the patient and/or the family.

 

 

 

BEVERLY “TONI” CARLOSS GRAY

Beverly “Toni” Carloss Gray, of Kentwood, Louisiana, passed away on Thursday, June 11, 2020, at North Oaks Medical Center at the age of 80. She was born on Sunday, April 7, 1940, in McComb, Mississippi, daughter of the late Rembert and the late Cewilla Venable Carloss. She retired as a hairdresser in Covington, Louisiana and enjoyed gardening, crafts, reading, cooking and various church activities.

Toni is survived by her only child, Philip “Rock”Alan Gray, II (Diane), a grandson, Chase Alan Gray (Tiffany), a granddaughter, Devan Gray Richoux (Lester, III), a great-granddaughter, Lily Leanna Richoux, a very special double first cousin, Carrine C. Wilson, a step-grandson, Duane Leftwich, two step-granddaughters, Stephanie Leftwich and Valerie Leftwich Davidson (Brian) and six step-great-grandchildren, Peyton, Makaylah, Jackson, Bradlee, Bailey, and Dylan.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Philip Alan Gray and a daughter-in-law, Leanna W. Gray.

A memorial graveside service will be held at a later date at Woodland Cemetery in Kentwood, Louisiana. Donations in her honor can be made to The Church of Our Redeemer, P.O. Box 1001, McComb, MS  39649

 

 

 

Charles Lynn Rowland

January 22, 1963 – June 12, 2020

A resident of Kentwood passed away on Friday, June 12, 2020 at Tangi Pines Nursing Center in Amite. He was born January 22, 1963 in New Orleans and was 57 years of age. He is survived by his 5 children, Christopher Rowland (Melissa), Kristy Rosamond (Christopher), Richard Rowland (Allie), Michael Rowland, and David Rowland; 6 grandchildren, Joshua Rosamond, Jacob Blayze Neal, Realyn Grace Rowland, Kinzlee Diana Rowland, Jessica Patterson, and Heather Calmes; great-granddaughter, Ava Calmes; 5 brothers and sisters, Frank Rowland (Sherri), Charlann Henry (Donna), John Noble (Cindy), Ronnie Noble, and Eva Suzanne Rowland; brother-in-law, Ronnie Temple. Preceded in death by his sister, Ronda Temple; parents, Charles B. Rowland and Vivian Earles Rowland; grandparents, Beatrice Earles, and Frank and Eva Rowland. Graveside Services will be held at Tangipahoa Cemetery at 11:00AM on Monday, June 15, 2020. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

 

 

 

Read the Bible in 2020 – June 14

  • 1 Kings 12:20-13:34
  • Acts 9:26-43
  • Psalm 132:1-18
  • Proverbs 17:6

 

 

Attend the church of your choice today, either in person, a live-streamed service (possible local), or a televised service or two.  If you don’t have a church, check some out or ask a friend.  You’ll be spiritually richer.

Anna Lee

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Saturday

“The LORD our God does not tolerate perverted justice, partiality, or the taking of bribes.”

~2 Chronicles 19:7 (NLT)~

 

 

 

Today, let’s pray for our once great nation.  May people unite and turn to God.

 

 

 

Read the Bible in 2020 – June 13

  • 1 Kings 11:1-12:19
  • Acts 9:1-25
  • Psalm 131:1-3
  • Proverbs 17:4-5

 

 

Let’s pray for the churches that will be having VBS  this summer.  May they all find ways to teach the children in a manner that is safe for everyone.

 

 

 

Pray for churches unable to hold VBS.  May they fine alternative ways to reach children and their families this summer.

 

 

 

Most of the church camps for children and youth have been cancelled this summer.  May the churches and youth ministers be creative in finding ways to minister to them this summer.

 

 

 

Pray for those, both young and old, who are dealing with the corona virus situation this summer.  It was been a big “game changer” in many aspects of our lives.  May families and professionals find ways to make adjustments so the virus has only minimal impact on individuals, families, churches, and school.

 

 

 

Pray for churches as they slowly readjust schedules to resume more and more activities.

 

 

 

Pray for schools as they make plans and adjustments for the fall and especially for the activities normally scheduled for the summer.

 

 

 

Continue to pray for health professionals as they treat those who are sick and make accommodations for those who are healthy.

 

 

 

Liesa Smith Gillis

July 15, 1955 – June 11, 2020

A resident of Greensburg, LA, passed away on Thursday, June 11, 2020 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. She was born July 15, 1955 in Baton Rouge, LA and was 64 years of age. She was a retired educator and guidance counselor with the Livingston Parish School System. She had a love for life and cherished her family, her friends, and her fellow educators and students. She is survived by her husband, Kirk Gillis, Greensburg; two children, Amber Graff and Dr. Eugene R. Graff, Jr., daughter Molly, Hammond; and Cassie Gillis, daughter Marissa, Lakewood, CO; sister, Lyn and Richard Easley, nephew, Richard C. Easley, and niece, Jennifer Davis, aunt, Elois Smith McNabb, Greensburg; and uncle, Harold Ray Smith. She was preceded in death by parents, Albert and Toffie Smith. Visitation at Greensburg United Methodist Church from 9:00 a.m. until religious services at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 13, 2020. Services conducted by Rev. Donald Lum and Dr. Kenneth Reed. Interment Greensburg Cemetery, Greensburg, LA. Memorial donations may be made to Greensburg United Methodist Church. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

 

 

 

Thank you for praying today.

Anna Lee

 

 

 

 

 

Wednesday

Greater love has no one than this:

to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

~John 15:13~

 

 

 

Read the Bible in 2020 – June 10th

  • 1 Kings 7:1-50
  • Acts 7:30-50
  • Psalm 128:1-6
  • Proverbs 16:31-33

 

 
Baptist Press –http://www.bpnews.net/

 

 

 

 

Please pray for medical personnel.  It seems they are having lots of patients now that the non-emergency people are having tests and procedure that were put on hold due to Covid – 19.

 

 

 

Remember to continue praying for those who are required to make decisions about receiving hospital treatment based on Covid – 19 situation there.

 

 

 

Homer “Buddy” Magee Waller

January 18, 1948 – June 08, 2020

Mr. Homer “Buddy” Waller, 72, of Kentwood, LA, passed from this life on June 8, 2020, at his residence.  He was born on January 18, 1948, in Magnolia, MS to Edgar Waller and Lorine Rimes Waller. He was a member of Lewiston Baptist Church; served his country in the US Army; worked for many years at Tangi Industrial; and enjoyed spending time with his friends. His church family was always very important to him.

Preceding him in death were his parents and one brother in law, Larry Daniels.

Survivors are his two sisters, Sue Daniels of Greensburg, LA and Patsy Miller and husband, Marvin of Lafayette, LA and a host of friends.

Visitation will be on Saturday, June 13, 2020, at Lewiston Baptist Church in Kentwood, LA. from 10:00 AM until funeral services at 11:00 AM with burial to follow in the Lewiston Baptist Church Cemetery.  Dr. Gene Richards and Rev. Cory Morris will be officiating the services with Sharkey Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Pallbearers are James Rimes, Joe Joe Norris, Vandy Lewis, Russell Vullo, Max Stinson, and Gary Upton.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to St. Joseph Hospice, especially Lisa King.

In lieu of flowers, family request donations be made to Lewiston Baptist Church: 74576 North Lewiston Rd. Kentwood, LA 70444 or First Baptist Church of Kentwood: 310 Ave. E Kentwood, LA 70444.

To share condolences please visit www.sharkeyfuneralhome.com

Buddy was a very kind and gentle man.  I’m so thankful I got to know him.

 

 

 

FBC. Kentwood will be live-streaming at 6 P.M. tonight.  You are invited to join them us on Facebook or You-Tube.

Anna Lee

Tuesday

“I issue a decree that in every part of my kingdom people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel.

For he is the living God and he endures forever; his kingdom will not be destroyed, his dominion will never end.”

~Daniel 6:26 (NIV)~

 

 

 

Some reasons you might want to thank God today:

  • Jesus loves you
  • Your family loves you
  • Your house didn’t flood
  • No tornadoes in our area
  • No sickness in your family
  • A job with good benefits
  • Another year of school completed
  • You are “graduating”, despite the virus
  • Someone called you
  • Someone visited you
  • You have a church family
  • Your child/grandchild was baptized
  • You get to work in VBS this year
  • Your church is finding a way for worship despite the virus
  • A neighbor brought you fresh vegetables
  • You are not in the hospital
  • Your grown children check on you
  • Your car runs smoothly
  • Your roof doesn’t leak
  • You had a good day yesterday 
  • You were able to rest well last night
  • You have a telephone
  • Etc.

 

 

 

 

Prayers needed today!  Today, I want to ask for prayers for those who are undergoing chemo, having scans, doing more blood work, getting another opinion, quarantined with the virus, facing additional surgery, etc.

 

 

 

I also encourage you to pray for those who are lost, discouraged, depressed, losing their homes, dealing with children who are in trouble, families with seemingly unsolvable differences, families with members working too many hours, families facing an unwanted move, families with very little food in the pantry, families with more bills than money, older people who cannot afford their medication, families separated by too many miles, neglected children, families with no air conditioning in our hot climate, families needing drivable automobiles, people who need a job, etc.

 

 

 

You can pray for specific people you know in some of these situations or pray in general.  These are some of the needs around us.  Some of these needs may even be in your family or household.  You don’t need names.  They need prayers!  Hopefully, this list has you thinking and praying,

 

 

 

Dorothy Ann “Puggy” Tate

February 04, 1948 – June 07, 2020

A resident of Kentwood, LA, passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2020 at her home. She was born February 4, 1948 in Maringouin, LA and was 72 years of age. She is survived by her children, Davis Tate and wife, Beverly and Stephanie Graham and husband, Micheal Graham; grandchildren, Shane Tate, Krystal Tate, Lakin Graham, Levi Graham and Ely Graham; great-grandchildren, Elizabeth Tate, Keegan Herrington and Anderson Tate;13 brothers and sisters. Preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy Davis Tate; father, Albert Sparks; mother, Camilla Palermo Sparks; brother and sisters, Albert Sparks, Jr., Jessie Sparks, Linda Baker and Jeanette Sparks. Graveside Services will be held at New Jerusalem Cemetery at 11:00AM Tuesday, June 9, 2020. Services conducted by Bishop Rick Maricelli. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

 

 

 

Ivy Wallace Wall, Jr.

February 03, 1942 – June 07, 2020

A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2020 at  his home surrounded by his family. He was born February 3, 1942 in Independence, LA and was 78 years of age. He graduated with a bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture from Southeastern Louisiana University. He was a self employed dairy farmer, owner of JaniKing Commercial Cleaning and treasurer/operator of Gulf Dairy Milk Product Association. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Arcola. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Sandra Crawford Wall; daughter, Deborah Wall Miller; son, Ivy “Huck” Wall, III and wife, Kelly; 5 grandchildren, Ben Pierre Miller, Brandi Victoria Miller, Ivy Wall, IV, Ivan Huck Wall and Grace Kelli Wall; great- grandson, Preston Wright; brother, Robert Wall; numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his son, Gregory Wall; granddaughter, Ashley Sue Miller; parents, Ivy Wall, Sr. and Zula Brown Wall. Special thanks to the Saxon family for their love and support during this time. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 5:00PM until 9:00PM on Wednesday and from 10:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Thursday, June 11, 2020. Services conducted by Bro. Bob Simpson. Interment Hyde Cemetery, Chesbrough, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

 

 

 

 

Read the Bible in 2020 – June 9th

  • 1 Kings 5:1-6:38
  • Acts 7:1-29
  • Psalm 127:1-5
  • Proverbs 16:28-30

 

 

I received word yesterday that Tangipahoa Baptist Church will hold their VBS early in July.  Pray for those leading, teaching, and children who will be attending.

 

 

 

Baptist Press – http://www.bpnews.net/

 

 

 

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Anna Lee

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tuesday

“Walk with the wise and become wise,

for a companion of fools suffers harm.”

~Proverbs 13:20 (NIV)~

 

 

 

Read the Bible in 2020 – June 2

  • 2 Samuel 19:11-20:13
  • John 21:1-25
  • Psalm 120:1-7
  • Proverbs 16:16-17

 

 

Baptist Press – http://www.bpnews.net/

 

 

 

This morning I ran across “Sammy Tippit” Ministries.  This started back when I was a teenager.  He wasn’t much older than me and was from Louisiana.  I remember seeing/hearing him several times.  I’m so thankful for those who set good examples and serve their lifetime continuing to do so.  https://www.facebook.com/watch/sammytippitministries/. I plan to spend some time today learning more about his current ministry of hope.  https://sammytippit.org/

 

 

Pray for our students, teachers, bus drivers, janitors, etc. who are officially beginning their real summer vacation.

 

 

 

Pray for our churches and staff to be leaders and examples of “light” in a time of darkness.

 

 

 

Pray for Christians to set/follow good examples of how to live in a country in turmoil.

 

 

 

Pray for parents and grandparents to set good examples for their younger generations.

 

 

 

Pray for our young adults, teens, and children to be good decision makers in the world they face daily.

 

 

 

Please continue to pray for those who are:

  • America, as a whole
  • Police officers
  • Firemen
  • National guard
  • Regular military
  • Political officials
  • Public citizens
  • Medical workers
  • Religious leaders
  • Political leaders
  • News people
  • Common everyday folks
  • Peaceful protesters (happened in Hammond yesterday)
  • Rioters to “see the light” and protest peacefully
  • Etc.

 

 

Zilpha Lea Varnado Smith

February 18, 1925 – May 27, 2020

A loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend went to her heavenly home on Wednesday, May 27, 2020, of natural causes. She was 95 years old. Zilpha Lea was a devout Baptist who loved people, gardening, traveling, playing games, and spending time with her family and friends. She leaves behind to cherish her memories, her loving daughters, Connie Oubre and husband, Bootsie, Cathy LeJeune and husband, Brian, Richelle Latham and husband, Bert; 4 grandchildren, Bruce LeJeune and wife, Jennifer, Kimberly Cleveland and husband, Darryl, Zachary Oubre and wife, Becky, Alisha Lee and husband, Dustin; 11 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, and many dear friends. She will be missed by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ashford and Mae Varnado; her husband of 51 years, Dick Smith; brother, Donald Varnado; sister, Myrthe Erwin; and granddaughter, Monica Latham. The family would like to thank Golden Age Healthcare of Denham Springs for their loving care. Visitation will be held at Spring Creek Baptist Church in Kentwood on Saturday, May 30, 2020, from 10:00AM until 12:00PM with a service at 12:00PM conducted by Dr. Danny Smith. Interment will follow in Spring Creek Cemetery, Kentwood.  Serving as pallbearers will be Bruce LeJeune, Tyler Genre, Andrew Genre, Don Gates, Mark Varnado, and Dustin Lee. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

 

 

 

Albert Wendell Blackwell

June 15, 1939 – May 29, 2020

Albert Wendell “Wimp” Blackwell, 80, of Amite, LA passed away at home surrounded by family on May 29, 2020. Wendell loved sports, especially football, and was a high school All American player, playing college ball at Delta State University and Mississippi State University and later drafted to the Kansas City Chiefs before a career ending injury. He was also a member of the state championship track team at Cleveland High School. Later in life he coached high school football teams at Bayou Academy, winning a state championship, Oak Forest Academy, earning district awards and Silliman Institute, also winning a state championship. Wendell’s other love was animals, especially horses. He was a horse trainer for many years and was well known for owning and standing the quarter horse stallion The Promoter. Wendell is survived by his sons, Clay “Rawhide” Blackwell (Sally) of Loranger, LA and Thad Blackwell of Amite, LA, sister Louise Tidmore (A.C.) of Merigold, MS, brother Phillip Blackwell (Linda) of Peachtree, GA, brother Gerald Blackwell (Ann) of Cheyenne, WY, granddaughters Samantha Lynne Perkins (Daniel) of Centreville, MS, Kasey Rae Blackwell of Pine Grove, LA, Macy Blackwell of Loranger, LA, Cher Blackwell of Loranger, LA, grandsons Ben Davis (Carie) of Westlake, LA and Trey Hill of Cullman, AL, great-granddaughters Jenifer and Lena Davis and great-grandsons Ayden Varnado and Stetsan Hill and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Phillip and Cordell Blackwell of Cleveland, MS, his brother Harold Blackwell of Lafayette, LA and his son Wendell “Skeeter” Blackwell of Montpelier, LA. Memorial services for Wendell Blackwell will be held at Montpelier Baptist Church with visitation on Wednesday, June 3, 2020 at 10:00 A.M., and memorial service at 11:00 A.M. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to St. Jude for Wendell Blackwell I.D. # 12033429. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

 

 

 

Lester Kirby Bennett

September 11, 1941 – May 30, 2020

Lester Kirby Bennett a resident of Roseland, LA, passed away on Saturday, May 30, 2020 at Hood Memorial Hospital in Amite, LA. He was born September 11, 1941 in Amite, LA and was 78 years of age. He is survived by his 3 daughters, Belinda Sylvester, Velvet Crowe and Vanessa Johnson; 1 son, Kirby Bennett; 12 grandchildren;13 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by his parents, Jones Hinze Bennett and Emma Bennett; brothers and sisters, Lawrence Bennett, Calvin Bennett, Leche Bennett, Dewitt Bennett, Bernice Bennett, Bobbie Jean Poirrier, Myrtle Lee Newland and Alma Bennett. Graveside Services will be held at Killian Chapel Cemetery, Amite, LA at 11:00AM Friday, June 5, 2020. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

 

 

 

Thanks for reading my words today.  May we all grow in the Lord today!

Anna Lee

 

 

Sunday

“Commit yourself to instruction;

listen carefully to words of knowledge.”

~Proverbs 23:12 (NLT)~

 

Please continue to pray for our country.

 

A Call to Prayer for our Country!

Today

Rev. Franklin Graham

  • We need to pray for PEACE, because “the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God” (James 1:20).
  • Pray for PERSPECTIVE, because “the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere” (James 3:17).
  • Pray for PATIENCE, because of God’s “kindness and forbearance and patience” toward us all (Romans 2:4).
  • And pray for an OUTPOURING of His wisdom and direction for our leaders and officials who are dealing with this crisis. Ask God to change hearts and heal this divide in our nation.
  • We need to pray for PEACE, because “the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God” (James 1:20).

 

 

 

Most of out local churches will have services inside or outside their church buildings today at their usual time.

 

 

 

Wilbur Gene Parker

March 03, 1945 – May 27, 2020

A resident of Kentwood, LA, passed away on Wednesday, May 27, 2020 at his home. He was born March 3, 1945 in Osyka, MS and was 75 years of age. He was a U. S. Air Force Veteran and a retired industrial electrician with IBEW Local #995. He is survived by his 2 brothers, Wesley Parker and John Parker (Janice); nieces and nephews, Travis Parker, Cassie Parker, Bridget Parker Magee (Juan), John Mitchell Parker (Tabby), Amanda Freeman, and Jason Parker (Tori). Preceded in death by parents, John Wesley Parker and Myrtis Newsom Parker; brother, Floyd W. Parker. A Memorial Service will be held at New Zion Baptist Church at 10:00AM on Tuesday, June 2, 2020. Services conducted by Rev. Larry Blades. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

 

 

 

Jerry Spring

June 16, 1934 – May 27, 2020

Jerry Spring, 85, of Amite, LA passed away Wednesday, May 27, 2020, from natural causes. Jerry was born on June 16, 1934, to Mattie Lee Lewis and Samuel Emmett Spring in New Orleans, LA.  He attended Possum College in Amite, LA.  Jerry enlisted with the United States Air Force in December 1951, and served during the Korean War Conflict until he was honorably discharged in December 1955, as S/SGT.  He was a Lineman for LP&L.  At the time of his death, he lived in Westminster Albany Apartments where he made many friends.  His family says he was a simple man that loved joking and laughing.  He is preceded in death by his mother Mattie Lee Lewis, father Samuel Emmett Spring, and step-father William Claude Wilkinson.  He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Greg and Tonilyn Spring, grandchildren Remy and Danna, and numerous family members. A grave site ceremony will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2020, at 11:00am at Spring Cemetery in Amite, LA.  In lieu of flowers, his family asks that a donation be made in memory of Jerry Spring to Quad Area Community Action  Agency @ quadarea.org. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

 

 

 

The Hope Center is now open at its new location south of the big curve in highway 51 on the west side of the highway.  It is back from the highway, but visible from highway 51.  They are open Tuesday – Saturday.  The Hope Center is operated Two Rivers Baptist Association.

 

 

 

Read the Bible in 2020 – May 31

  • 2 Samuel 17:1-29
  • John 19:23-42
  • Psalm 119:129-152
  • Proverbs 16:12-13

 

 

Have a wonderful Lord’s Day!

Anna Lee

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Friday

Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.

Proverbs 22:6

 

 

 

VBS at FBC, Kentwood

  • July 6-10 (Not June) – delaying for a month
  • 8:30 – 10:30 A.M.
  • PS4 – 5th Grade
  • Focus on small groups
  • Wearing of masks is optional.
  • Registration at FBC, Kentwood

 

 

Please pray for Easton Strickland, Tommy Strickland’s youngest grandchild.

  • Need prayers for my youngest grandson, Easton Strickland, he was blown off a inflatable water slide. He has a skull fracture and is being sent to BR pediatrics. (May 25th)
  • Update on Easton Neurologist cleared him and took off his neck brace. He should go home today. He has to stay on the couch for 12 weeks. A little swelling in his liver, she said? The cracked skull, concussion, bruises, and scrapes.. Other than that, he’s ok. He doesn’t remember it, or almost anything for several hours after. They said he probably never will.
    Thanks for the prayers (May 26th)

 

 

Robbie Lynn Callihan is celebrating seven years of being clear of pancreatic cancer.  Thank God for this awesome report.

 

 

 

Scott Tolleson (Shreveport, LA)

Scott is my first cousin who is in his early 60’s.  He is now on hospice care for Huntington’s Disease.  Please pray for Scott and his family during this very difficult time.  He has several family members who are also dealing with this horrible disease.  Please pray for Scott and is family.  I wish I could erase HD from existence!  Is is a very cruel disease and continues to show its terrible power in the Tolleson family.

 

 

Zilpha Lea Varnado Smith

February 18, 1925 – May 27, 2020

A loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend went to her heavenly home on Wednesday, May 27, 2020, of natural causes. She was 95 years old. Zilpha Lea was a devout Baptist who loved people, gardening, traveling, playing games, and spending time with her family and friends. She leaves behind to cherish her memories, her loving daughters, Connie Oubre and husband, Bootsie, Cathy LeJeune and husband, Brian, Richelle Latham and husband, Bert; 4 grandchildren, Bruce LeJeune and wife, Jennifer, Kimberly Cleveland and husband, Darryl, Zachary Oubre and wife, Becky, Alisha Lee and husband, Dustin; 11 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, and many dear friends. She will be missed by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ashford and Mae Varnado; her husband of 51 years, Dick Smith; brother, Donald Varnado; sister, Myrthe Erwin; and granddaughter, Monica Latham. The family would like to thank Golden Age Healthcare of Denham Springs for their loving care. Visitation will be held at Spring Creek Baptist Church in Kentwood on Saturday, May 30, 2020, from 10:00AM until 12:00PM with a service at 12:00PM conducted by Dr. Danny Smith. Interment will follow in Spring Creek Cemetery, Kentwood.  Serving as pallbearers will be Bruce LeJeune, Tyler Genre, Andrew Genre, Don Gates, Mark Varnado, and Dustin Lee. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

 

 

 

Phyllis Adams Yarbrough (sister of Nancy Stokes)

Phyllis Adams Yarbrough, 61 a native of Lockport and resident of Mathews, passed away on Friday, May 22, 2020.

She is survived by father, Adolph Joseph Adams; her sons Joshua Hill and Tyler Yarbrough and daughter Michele Hill Wilson; sisters Martha Boone Kozen, Christine Adams Melancon, Nancy Adams Stokes, Dale Adams Comeaux, and brother Dan Adams; grandchildren Cullen and Abigail Hill and Cody and Cash Wilson.

She was preceded in death by her mother Hilda “Sue” Gibbons Adams; sister Kathleen Adams Baudoin and brother John Paul Clifton.

The family will have a private memorial service.

I am in Christ and Christ is in me. Claim that all day every day. -Phyllis Yarbrough

Samart-Mothe Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

 

 

Read the Bible in 2020 – May 29th

  • Exodus 8:1-9:35
  • Matthew 19:13-30
  • Psalm 24:1-10
  • Proverbs 6:1-5

 

 

 

Baptist Press – http://www.bpnews.net/

 

 

 

 

Louisiana Baptist Message –https://baptistmessage.com/

 

 

 

Make today count for something, someone important to you!

Anna Lee

 

 

 

Monday

“Call to me and I will answer you.

I’ll tell you marvelous and wondrous things that you could never figure out on your own.”

~Jeremiah 33:3 (The Message)~

 

 

 

Mr. Buddy Waller is in North Oaks, but will possible be coming home today.  Please keep him in your prayers.

 

 

 

Dora Lee Brown Miller

April 03, 1938 – May 23, 2020
Dora Lee Brown Miller, age 82, passed away on May 23, 2020. She was born April 3, 1938 in Roseland, LA, the daughter of Jessie Lee Ricks Brown and Frank Brown. She married Shelby W. Miller of Hillsdale, LA on July 12, 1956.
Shelby and Dora Lee established their home west of Kentwood after their marriage, and raised three children there on their dairy farm. Dora Lee was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and nurse. When her oldest child was in college she enrolled in nursing school and went on to obtain her nursing license. Dora Lee was employed at Hood Memorial Hospital in Amite, LA and Our Lady of the Lake Hospital in Baton Rouge, LA for approximately 25 years. She was also a proud volunteer with the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization in her community.
Anyone who met Dora Lee would know within a matter of minutes that her family was her pride and joy. Her role as a selfless and dedicated mother and grandmother was truly her calling in life, and she was a natural caretaker. 
Dora Lee is survived by her children Mary Fay Williams (Mickey), Shelby Lane Miller (Carroll Jo), and Terry Miller (Joetta); her brother Nick Brown; her grandchildren Erika Sledge, Danielle Miller, Shellie Amedee, Lanny Miller, Daniel Miller, Taylor Miller, Alex Williams, and Christy Brooks; great-grandchildren Coll, Swayze, Everly, Tucker, Jax, and Eli.
Dora Lee was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and her sister Johnnie Fay Brown Saizan.
A private service will be held at McKneely Funeral Home in Kentwood, LA on May 27, 2020. Internment at Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood, LA.  For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

LSP ANNOUNCES PASSING OF TROOPER GEORGE BAKER

HAMMOND – Today, the Louisiana State Police is deeply saddened to inform the public that Trooper George Baker has succumbed to injuries sustained in the performance of his duties.

Trooper Baker sustained severe injuries during the early morning hours of Wednesday, May 20, as he joined with other Troopers assisting the Hammond Police Department with a vehicle pursuit.

Baker was a 33-year-old, 10-year law enforcement and military veteran. A vigil of family, friends, and his fellow Troopers remained at the hospital from the very beginning until his passing.

Trooper Baker is survived by his wife Heather, their young daughter Harper, his parents, his sisters, and his extended family.

Trooper Baker served as a Trooper at Louisiana State Police Troop L since November of 2017 and is the first LSP line of duty death since Senior Trooper Steven Vincent, Troop D, in August of 2015. Troop L has not lost a Trooper in the line of duty since the passing of Trooper Rudolph H. Miller on September 8th, 1962. Trooper Baker is the 30th Trooper to lose his life in the line of duty in the history of the Louisiana State Police.

Trooper Baker had a lifelong desire of becoming a Louisiana State Trooper. In preparation for that goal, he spent 8 years in the United States Marine Corps Reserve including one combat deployment in the Middle East. He began his law enforcement career with the Greensburg Police Department, where he worked for 4 years. He then served the St. Helena Parish Sheriff’s Office for 3 years before joining the Louisiana State Police.

In a statement to Troopers, State Police Superintendent, Colonel Kevin Reeves said, “Trooper Baker passed today leaving our hearts heavy but full of pride as he exemplified our values of duty, selfless service, and personal courage.” Even after his death, Trooper Baker continues to show his commitment to community and selfless service by donating his organs so that others may live. Arrangements are incomplete at this time, but Trooper Baker will be afforded full honors earned with a line of duty death.

For information on providing assistance to the Baker family during this tragic time, please visit http://www.latroopers.org and direct donations to the Louisiana Troopers Charities – Trooper Baker.

 

As you pray for the Baker family and friends, remember this death touches the lives of all the troopers and their families.  Please pray for them too.

 

 

 

Today is Memorial Day.  I haven’t know many who died while serving in the military, but our country was founded because of brave men and women who lived extraordinary lives so we can have that freedom.

Over the weekend we watched a Bill Gathier special, “God Bless the USA”.  If you haven’t seen it lately, you may be able to see it today if you search for it.  I have seen it before and would gladly watch it again today.  My family passed on to me a deep love for God and our country and for those who have helped to make a country the special place it is.  I hope I have passed that on to my children and grandchildren too.

 

 

 

Read the Bible in 2020 – May 25

  • 2 Samuel 7:1-8:18
  • John 14:15-31
  • Psalm 119:33-48
  • Proverbs 15:33

 

 

Baptist Press – http://www.bpnews.net/

 

 

 

FBC, Kentwood is getting back on its full schedule.  If you feel comfortable being there, please join them.  If not, tuning in is a great opportunity to feel a part of the church and to hear all the messages from Bro. Darrell.  Be smart in making this decision.

 

 

Due to David’s health and the pandemic, we spend most of our time at home.  Thankfully, we can see our church services three times a week while at home.  I certainly miss my church family and friends we would see all through the area.  Because of losing some of that weekly contact, we miss out of hearing of needs I would normally put on The Prayer Link.  Wendy Alford Fowler and James Rimes have helped me be informed in the last few days.  I would appreciate if you would send me messages about needs by clicking on “Contact” on this site and sharing.  You can also call us, but we are enjoying some time outside daily and may miss your call.  Please, leave a message.

Anna Lee

 

 

 

Sunday

“Call to me and I will answer you.

I’ll tell you marvelous and wondrous things that you could never figure out on your own.”

~Jeremiah 33:3 (The Message)~

 

 

 

Read the Bible in 2020 – May 24

  • 2 Samuel 4:1-6:23
  • John 13:31-14:14
  • Psalm 119:17-32
  • Proverbs 15:31-32

 

 

This is the Lord’s Day!  Today, if you cannot attend church in person, try an online or drive-in service.  You can also have your own Sunday School from regular literature, the Bible, or an online lesson.

 

 

 

Please continue to pray for the Alford/Kelly family.  The obituary for Marilyn A. Kelly is not available yet.  Pray for other families who have lost a loved one during this pandemic time which surely made the situation more difficult.

 

 

 

Please continue to pray for the many who are sick.  I’ll let you make your own list today.

Anna Lee