Jessie “Merle” Rhoden Daley, a resident of Bogalusa, was called home on December 6, 2023. She was born on June 22, 1935 in Columbia, MS. She is survived by her children: Donnie Brewer, Carl Daley, Dorothy Wall of Kentwood, Cynthia Watkins, and Angela Pierce; her grandchildren: Michael Daley, Melissa Smith, Charlie Wall, Dru Wall, Jennifer Ciccio, Amanda Nevers, Tisha Jeansonne, Christopher Jeansonne, and Kyle Jeansonne; and numerous great-grandchildren. Merle was preceded in death by her husband: Mr. Andrew Daley; one son-in-law: Scott Watkins; and her granddaughter: Kristin Smith. Brown-McGehee Funeral Home was entrusted with final arrangements. Monday, December 11, 2023 a viewing will start at 10AM until the start of service at 1PM in the funeral home chapel. She will be laid to rest on December 11, 2023 at Hillview Cemetery in Bogalusa, LA. The following pallbearers will proudly serve Mrs. Merle Daley: Chase Nevers, Andy Nevers, Patrick Patterson, Chris Jeansonne, Josh Endsley, and Michael Daley.
Lottie Moon Luncheon
Spring Creek Baptist Church
10:00 A.M. this morning
All girls and ladies are invited.
Come learn about International Missions and Lottie Moon
Sharing Christmas
Today, let’s focus our thoughts on doing something special for those who will be alone for the holidays. Consider inviting them to participate in your celebration. You might take them a gift from you, your family, or your Sunday School class. You could share a meal or a portion of your meal with them. You night take them to a Christmas program at your church. These are ideas, but you can figure out what works best for you. The point is to show some special attention to others and to let them know they are loved.
Kid’s Christmas Program
Sunday at 6 P.M. at FBC, Kentwood
Prayer Focus
Let’s pray for God to guide us to share Christmas with someone outside the family this Christmas. What a wonderful time to share Jesus and the plan of a heavenly home available to each of us!
“Considering life’s brevity, I value most . . . .”
Obituaries
Meredith “Ann” Viana Courtney
July 28, 1938 – December 4, 2023
Meredith “Ann” Viana Courtney, 85, of Amite passed away peacefully surrounded by her beloved family at North Oaks Medical Center on Monday, December 4, 2023. She was born July 28, 1938, in New Orleans. Her life touched everyone she encountered, and she left a legacy that will live in our hearts forever.
She came into the world as a miracle baby weighing 2 pounds and 11 ounces and spent her early life in Aruba. Her family moved back to the states for the birth of her brother. She attended Ursuline Academy, graduated high school from Ridgewood Preparatory School in 1956, and attended Dominican College before beginning her family. She married Kenneth Wayne Courtney on August 16, 1958 and moved to Amite where they made their life together. They were blessed with five children. She was a cherished wife, mother, and grandmother who set an extraordinary example and taught many lessons. She embodied gentleness, kindness, humility, compassion, generosity, patience, and loyalty. She had a deep faith in the Catholic Church, her joy emanated from within, and her love for her family was unwavering.
She was a member of St. Helena Catholic Church, the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, and served on the church bereavement committee. She was a founding member of the Oak Forest Academy Teacher Parent Club and the Booster Club and spent countless hours volunteering in many roles to ensure their success. She enjoyed cooking, baking, playing cards and pokeno with her friends, and cheering on the LSU Tigers. She welcomed everyone into her home with a hug and a smile and was happiest when surrounded by her family, who affectionately called her “The Queen of Hillsdale.”
She is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, Kenneth Courtney; her 5 children, Suzanne Courtney, Sherri Oliver and husband Stevie, Tobey Courtney, Toni Riley and husband Chris, and Kenneth Courtney, Jr. and wife Melissa; 10 grandchildren, Courtney Putnam and husband Alan, Brett Ruffino and wife Michele, Carrie Smith, Brandi Ray and husband Ashton, Brittany Holland and husband Drew, Ken Courtney III and wife Courtney, Lindsey Misita and husband Drew, Brianna Riley, Adam Courtney, and Laney Courtney; 14 great-grandchildren, Andrew Smith, Morgan Ruffino, Addison Smith, Wyatt Putnam, Eli Ray, Cooper Ruffino, Avery Smith, Brock Putnam, Cohen Ray, Landry Holland, Oliver Ray, Miles Misita, Rafe Holland, and Meredith Misita; honorary granddaughters Crystal Alexander and Whitney Guitrau; nephew JJ Viana and numerous other nieces, nephews and Godchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents Manuel Viana and Meredith Ann Daigle Viana, brother Glenn Viana, grandson Blayne Courtney, son-in-law Rick Bogdal (Suzanne), and daughter-in-law, Doris Owen (Tobey).
Visitation will take place Sunday, December 10, 2023, at McKneely Funeral Home from 5:00p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and will continue Monday, December 11, 2023, at St. Helena Catholic Church Hall with the recitation of the rosary at 9:30 a.m., visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 11:45 a.m., and a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Helena Catholic Church at noon celebrated by Father Miles Walsh. Burial will follow at Courtney Cemetery.
Serving as pallbearers will be Brett Ruffino, Ken Courtney III, Adam Courtney, Alan Putnam, Ashton Ray, Drew Holland, and Drew Misita.
The family would like to thank her caregivers Jessie McClain and Lois Bell, Dr. Ray, and the doctors and staff at North Oaks for their exceptional and compassionate care.
If preferred to flowers, donations in her honor may be made to St. Helena Catholic Church or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Clyde Donald Dykes
January 27, 1956 – December 6, 2023
A resident of Osyka, MS, passed away on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at Hospice of Baton Rouge in Baton Rouge, LA. He was born January 27, 1956 in Magnolia, MS and was 67 years of age. He is survived by his son, Wesley Dykes and wife, Tiffany; daughter, Jessica Dykes and Clayton Thornton; 4 grandchildren, Kaleb Dykes, Kaitlynn Dykes, Alayna Thornton, and Dakota Thornton; brothers, Walter Dykes and wife, Kathy, Raymond Dykes, and Mark Dykes and wife, Charlene; sisters, Betty Woodard, Elizabeth Hernandez and husband, Rudy, Denell Gill, and Kimberly Kelp. Preceded in death by his father, Clyde Dykes; mother, Nellie Perryman; brother, Sheldon Dykes; infant son, Baby Dykes. Memorial Services will be scheduled at a later date. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Prayer Focus
Today, let’s focus our prayers on keeping the right focus for the holiday season! Christmas is about JESUS!
Don’t Forget
WHO – Ladies, young to not so young, like me
WHAT – Lottie Moon Luncheon
WHEN – Saturday at 10 A.M.
WHERE – Spring Creek Baptist Church
WHY – Ladies gathering to focus on international missions
I hope to see you and yours there.
Have a wonderful day! Try to get some of the “real meaning of Christmas, in your life today!
Lottie Moon Tea – Mistake! – There will be no Two River’s Associational Lottie Moon Tea!!!
Today’s Prayer Focus
Today, let’s pray for those who were not able to have Thanksgiving with family members and who will also not be able to be with family members for Christmas.
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
A resident of Pine Grove, LA, passed away on Friday, December 1, 2023 at Baton Rouge General – Bluebonnet in Baton Rouge, LA. He was born May 30, 1952 in Oceanside, CA and was 71 years of age. Randy retired from Dow Chemical in 2006 after 30 years of service. He is survived by his wife, Deborah Chandler Noland; 2 sons, David Noland (Sara) and Geoffrey Noland; daughter-in-law, Manettta Noland; 4 brothers-in-law; 3 sisters-in-law; 1 aunt, Mary Smith; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents, Roscoe Goynes and Leona Goynes; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Griffin and Christine Chandler; son, Christopher Noland; sister, Tanya Harrison. Visitation will be held at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6:00PM until 8:00PM on Monday, December 18, 2023. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Katherine Charel Hulsey Raborn
November 10, 1942 – December 2, 2023
Katherine and I taught “across the hall from each other” for 14 years!
Katherine Charel Hulsey Raborn, 81, of Hammond, died peacefully on December 2, 2023. She was born to James Garvis Hulsey and Charel Hathorn Hulsey on November 10, 1942. Katherine graduated from Woodland High School in 1960. She attended LSU and went on to graduate with a degree in Education from Southeastern Louisiana University. Years later, she returned to Southeastern to pursue a Master’s Degree in Higher Education and Administration. In the spring of 1995, she proudly walked across the stage to accept her diploma while wearing a stole of distinction for being an honor graduate. Her teaching career began in 1965 at Pine Grove High, then to Amite Elementary. From there, she would spend the next 27 years at Oak Forest Academy, where she was one of the original faculty members. The highlight of her time at OFA was being there when her sons were her students. Her career ended at Ponchatoula High School when she retired in 2022, after teaching there for 24 years. Katherine was an educator, mentor and administrator for an unprecedented 56 years. She spoke fondly and with immense pride of her former students and how she always tried her very best to be a positive influence in their lives. Without a doubt, she succeeded. Hundreds upon hundreds of students have been touched by her kindness, compassion and knowledge. From cooking and sewing in Home Economics to Civics and American History, all who were fortunate to have been taught by her are better because of her. Katherine is survived by her three sons, Boyd Raborn, Jr. and wife, Michelle, of Lafayette, Louisiana, Jeff Raborn and wife, Ashley, of Winston Salem, North Carolina and Richard Raborn of Hammond, Louisiana; seven grandchildren, Jane Ashley, Gunnar, Jack, Bailey, Hunt, Breanna and Joshua Raborn; her brothers, Lieutenant Colonel James Hulsey, Jr. (Judy) and Dr. Thomas Hulsey; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her parents and former husband, Boyd Raborn, Sr. Visitation will be held at McKneely Funeral Home, on Friday, December 8, 2023 beginning at 9:00 am until the funeral service at 11:00 am, conducted by Jeff McKneely. A private burial will follow at the Greensburg Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers will be Gunnar Raborn, Jack Raborn, Bailey Raborn, Hunt Raborn, Joshua Raborn and Tyler McKinney. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Raborn Scholarship, at LSU Law. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Calvin “Buddy” Russell
August 10, 1949 – December 3, 2023
A resident of Independence, LA, passed away on Sunday, December 3, 2023 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. He was born August 10, 1949 in Independence, LA and was 74 years of age. Buddy was a simple man that loved the Lord and loved his family. He was a hard working man that lovingly provided for his family. He enjoyed deer hunting, cooking, and pulling pranks on people. He was a member of Lighthouse Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Brenda Maurer Russell; son, Bryant Russell and loving daughter-in-law, Rebecca McMichael Russell; brother, Vannie Ray Russell, Sr. and wife, Debbie; 3 sisters, Betty Jo Beach, Susie Viola and husband, Jimmy, and Irma Amick and husband, Robert “Bob”; sister-in-law, Ramona Russell. Preceded in death by parents, Calvin and Daisy Russell; brother, Flemin Russell; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation at Lighthouse Baptist Church from 10:00AM until religious services at 1:00PM on Wednesday, December 6, 2023. Services conducted by Bro. Gene Hoyt and Bro. Dallas Stewart. Interment Lighthouse Cemetery, Independence, LA. Pallbearers will be Blake Beach, Kenneth Beach, Wesley Whiddon, Michael Whiddon, Timothy Amick, and Bradley Russell. Honorary pallbearers will be Zack Beach, Buck Maurer, Kelby Henderson, and Bob Amick. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Prayer Focus
Please pray for the five people from Kentwood. who will be having surgery today, the three families. with deaths of family members whose obituaries are here, and those others who are on your personal prayer list.
Lottie Moon Christmas Offering
Day 3
Read a real story from your brochure you received at church Sunday.
Christmas Opportunities
Please refer to the list I gave you yesterday.
The Prayer Link
I am so thankful for you when someone tells me you shared the link to this site with them.
There are so many reasons to pray. Thank you for both sharing and praying.
Operation Christmas Child
During the month of December, we will be collecting pencils, pens, colors, pencil colors, and calculators. At church you can give them to Bob and Jackie Babin, or David and me. Also, you can also hang your bag on the door in the basement if you are nearby.
I’m enjoying reading reports of some of those who are working in the processing centers. They realize how blessed they are to have that opportunity. If you ever have that opportunity, I hope you will take it.
This offering, 100% of it going to overseas work to tell others about Jesus, will be the focus of the Week of Prayer which begins today. Be sure to get a brochure at church or have someone bring you one.
Thank God
Thank God for the rain He provided the last few days. Look for the new growth around us this week. Thank God each time you notice a benefit of the rain.
Sunday School Lesson
The focus is on Genesis 1 and 2. I always learn something new when I read the Bible. Take your time. Focus in on the verses. Study them. What did you learn?
Shoeboxes
I’ve been reading about the various packing locations the shoeboxes have been sent to before going overseas. They are so pleased when they get a well packed, full box of new items for a boy or girl including items from all four categories – school supplies, hygiene, clothing, and toys. Yes, we get all four categories in one box by shopping carefully, removing packaging, and packing carefully.
Think about a child who have very little. It’s really hard to do so in our country! After working with shoeboxes a few years, you can learn so much.
If you will be packing boxes next year for the first time, or would just like some guidance, I would love to help you learn how to do so.
Church Today
If you cannot attend church, study some on your own and watch an online service or two.
But be sure to fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart;
consider what great things he has done for you.
I Samuel 12:24
Read the Bible
Ecclesiastes 2: 1-11
Ecclesiastes 12: 13-14
“The only thing of real value is . . . .”
Thankfulness
Today, we all need to thank God for the rain we have received and the rain headed our way in the next few days. We had our brown cedar tree, and other trees, cut this week. I’m thankful not to see that big brown tree and look forward to some spring planting after the winter days that are ahead.
Prayer Concerns
Winter brings sore throats, coughs, sneezes, colds, and flu. We were in the cold too much this week. I had a slightly sore throat, but David was outside more and got sicker than I did. Will we ever learn? Have you learned that lesson yet? Please pray for all those who enjoyed too much time outside this week.
Obituaries
Wanda Wynette Holden
September 10, 1953 – November 30, 2023
A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Thursday, November 30, 2023 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. She was born September 10, 1953 in Jacksonville, FL and was 70 years of age. She worked at Leon’s Shoe Store in Amite for 32 years. She is survived by her beloved husband of 51 years, Bruce E. Holden; only child and daughter, Kimberly Holden Russell (husband, Brandon Russell); 3 beautiful granddaughters, Chelsie Lynne Verberne (Allen Bickford), Caitlin Leanne Verberne (Corey Clouatre), and Carlie Lauren Verberne (Hayden Varnado); 2 beautiful great-granddaughters, Kamryn Verberne and Lynleigh Clouatre; grandson, Dakota Russell; twin brother, Wayne Wytte Dixon; older brother, John Steven Dixon; one sister-in-law, Sue Holden Deakles (Gene Deakles); niece, Valerie Deakles Willman (Brett Willman); and great-nieces, Emilyn and Elisabeth Willman; and numerous other nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her mother, Eunice Estelle Dixon; father, John Baptist Dixon. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9:00AM until religious services at 12:00 Noon on Tuesday, December 5, 2023. Services conducted by Bro. Jim Thornhill. Interment Sharon Cemetery, Amite, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Conly Asher Chavers March 31, 2004 — November 29, 2023 Hammond
Conly Asher Chavers, of Hammond, Louisiana, passed away at North Oaks Medical Center on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at the age of 19. He was born on Wednesday, March 31, 2004, in Hammond, Louisiana, the son of Chris and Diedra C. Chavers.
Asher was a sophomore at Southeastern Louisiana University and a member of the First Baptist Church in Ponchatoula. He was a proud dishwasher at Cate Street Seafood Station. He was a funny young man with a witty sense of humor. His love and compassion for other people was always strong. He had a big heart and loved animals especially birds.
Asher is survived by his parents, Chris and Diedra C. Chavers, sister, Sophia G. Chavers, grandmother, Iris Cleveland, grandparents, Reggie and Joette Chavers, grandfather, Chris Johansen; aunts and uncles, Kim Adams, Jessica and Tony Hopkins, Stephanie and Jonathan Hetrick, Charlotte Sylve, and David and Monette Cleveland, numerous cousins and other family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his “Pop”, Starret Cleveland, grandmother, Christine Johansen, and great-grandmother, Dora Lee Chavers.
Family and friends will be received at Harry McKneely Son Funeral Home, 2000 N. Morrison Blvd, Hammond, Louisiana 70401 on Monday, December 4, 2023 from 9:00 am until 1:00 pm. A Funeral Service will be held in the Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev Robert Parkin and Dr. David Cranford officiating.
Interment will follow at Rosaryville Cemetery in Ponchatoula, Louisiana.
Sunday School Preparation
Genesis 1-2
Head’s Up
The Wednesday adult Bible study will be held in the fellowship hall again this week because the children are practicing in the sanctuary again this week. I don’t know about the Sunday night service.
Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for international missions.
Week of Prayer
December 3–10, 2023
Southern Baptists observe a Week of Prayer for International Missions each year for the annual Lottie Moon Christmas Offering® emphasis. Will you join your heart with others to pray for missionaries around the world who are faithfully sharing the gospel?
You can give to the three Southern Baptist Mission Offerings all through the year. Be sure to mark your envelope and check “Lottie Moon” for international missions.
The missionaries thank you for providing the funds that provide for their mission projects all through the year. Without your gift, …..
Operation Christmas Child
OCC functions through Samaritan’s Purse, Billy Graham’s organization that works diligently to meet so many needs. “Shoeboxes” are one of it’s projects and has provided for underprivileged children in countries where the government does not help children. During the twenty years of OCC, 200 million shoeboxes have been given to children in 175 countries around the world! I am so blessed to be a small part of accomplishing that monumental task! Join me as we soon begin the 2024 Shoebox year.
Saturday = Preparation Day (for Sunday)
Do what you can today to make your Sunday run smoothly.
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