Monday

Verse of the Day

Prayer Focus

Good Morning

We are home from a granddaughter’s (Madison’s) wedding. It was both wonderful and beautiful. I wish you all could have experienced it too. It was special meeting Jack’s parents. He was their only child.

Daily Bible Reading

  • May 24 – Num. 26-27
  • May 25 – Num. 28-30
  • May 26 – Num. 31-32

Prayer Focus

As we enter into June in a few days, remember to pray for the many June brides.

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com/

Read about 65 new missionaries who will be sent.

Obituaries

Kathy Ann Strickland

February 7, 1952 – May 20, 2025


A resident of Kentwood, LA, passed away on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at her home. She was born February 7, 1952 in Rienzi, MS and was 73 years of age. She is survived by her husband, Jeff Strickland; 2 daughters, Cindy Huber and Crystal Strickland; 2 sons, Jim Wages and Lonnie Wages; 1 sister, Dorothy Phillip; 3 brothers, Charles Studdard, Bobby Studdard, and Jimmy Studdard; 8 grandchildren, Dustin Wages, Cody Wages. Amber Huber, Rylie Achord, Ethan Strickland, Corey Wages, Sarah Wages, and Cristina Ricks; 21 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her daughter, Wendy Ricks; parents, Jim Hill Studdard, Ruby Glidwill Studdard; and brother, James Studdard. Graveside Services will be held at Spring Creek Cemetery, Spring Creek, LA at 11:00AM Saturday, May 24, 2025. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Janet Lynn Mitchell

May 12, 1959 – May 22, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved sister Janet Lynn Mitchell, who left this world peacefully on May 22, 2025.  She was 66 years old

Janet lived life to the fullest and had enduring compassion for others. She had a beautiful soul which was evident to all who knew her, bringing warmth, laughter, and kindness into every room she entered.

Throughout her life, Janet embraced every moment fully. Whether traveling to new places, cheering on her favorite team, or gathering for a family meal, she infused everything she did with passion and heart.  She was a treasured sister and favorite aunt to all her nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents Roy and Erline Mitchell, her nephew Shaun Tycer, and longtime companion Al Buckner.

She is survived by siblings, Deborah O’Shee (Jerry), Linda Tycer (Dwain), Alan Mitchell (Kelley), Ronny Mitchell (Louise), Jason Mitchell, and numerous nieces and nephews.  

She is also survived by Paige McVay (Ryan) who was loved dearly like a daughter and their children Lucy and Fisher who affectionately called her J-Maw.  

A celebration of Janet’s life will be held on Thursday, July 17th at 11:00 at Blythewood in Amite, LA.

Janet will be dearly missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Shellie Jean Taylor

February 18, 2005 – May 25, 2025

Shellie Jean Taylor, affectionately known as “Sister Sue”, passed away on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at the age of 20. Shellie Jean, a resident of Amite, LA, was born on February 18, 2005, in Baton Rouge.

To know Shellie Jean was to love her. A shining star in every sense, she was witty, loving, and full of life. Shellie had an innate ability to light up any room she entered, making her the center of attention in the best way possible. Whether it was dressing up for an event or simply spending time with loved ones, she never hesitated to show her vibrant, one-of-a-kind personality. Her infectious laughter and joyful spirit made her the life of every gathering.

A devoted daughter, Shellie Jean’s love for her family was evident in every interaction. She shared a special bond with her mother, who lovingly prepared her favorite meals. Although tiny, she could eat her weight in crawfish or snow crabs.. Shellie’s love for good food was only  rivaled by her passion for life and the people in it.

She was a 2025 graduate of John Jay Beauty School in New Orleans, where she pursued her passion for hair and makeup as an aesthetician. Shellie Jean’s artistic talent and love for making others feel beautiful were clear in everything she did.  She was eagerly looking forward to attending nursing school in the fall.

Shellie Jean was greeted in heaven by her MiMi, Dot Taylor, and her grandpaw, Jack Taylor.

She leaves behind many who loved her dearly, including her mother, Lisa Taylor; her father, Michael Taylor; her brothers, Christopher and Jason (Chelsea Bates); her cherished niece, Rylee Jo Taylor; her grandpaw, Don Taylor; and her grandmother, Marian Taylor, affectionately known as MawMaw Marnie. She is also survived by her loving boyfriend, Cayne Ramsey. In addition, she is survived by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins; including a special aunt and uncle, Tammy and Chuck Rick; and Linda Perez; special cousins, Brittany and Chris McKinney, who were more like an aunt and uncle to her; and special cousins, Caidence, Collin, and Chloe McKinney, and Cody and Alli Rick, and their daughters Amelia, Abigail, Adeline, and Annie Kate.

Pallbearers will be Charlie LeBlanc, Chris McKinney, Christopher Taylor, Chuck Rick, Cody Rick, Collin McKinney, and Jason Taylor.

A visitation will be held at McKneely Funeral Home of Amite, on Wednesday, May 28, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM, followed by a celebration of her life at 11:00 AM.  Burial will be at Greensburg Cemetery.  Her family invites all who knew and loved Shellie Jean to join them in remembering her bright spirit.

”Do not let your hearts be troubled.  You believe in God; believe also in me.  My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” John 14: 1-3

It’s hard to post obituaries for a former student and for the child of a former student on the same day!

Please pray for the families of these three young ladies. Please also remember David and Patsy Darnell who lost their son to lung cancer yesterday.

Memorial Day

Look up the meaning of this holiday. Meditate on it. Thank God for those

Addition Bible Reading

‘A Glorious Transformation’

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is,

there is freedom18 And we all, who with unveiled faces ….

2 Co. 3:17-18

Memorial Day

AI Overview

Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States that honors and remembers the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. It is observed on the last Monday of May. 

Here’s a more detailed explanation:

  • Origins:Memorial Day’s roots are in the aftermath of the Civil War, when Americans would decorate the graves of fallen soldiers. It was initially called “Decoration Day”. 
  • Evolution:After World War I, the holiday evolved to honor all U.S. military personnel who died in service, not just those from the Civil War. 
  • Purpose:Memorial Day is a day for reflection and remembrance, a time to honor the sacrifices of those who died while serving our country. 
  • Observance:It’s marked by visits to cemeteries, parades, ceremonies, and the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m., encouraging a pause for silence. 
  • Relationship to Summer:While primarily a day of remembrance, Memorial Day has also become a marker of the unofficial start of summer, with many Americans enjoying outdoor activities and barbeques. 

I think most Americans do not understand the purpose of this holiday. I only know of a few who died while serving. If you get a chance today, please share this information.

I missed you while I was gone. It hurt not to be able to connect with you. I’m so happy to be back!!!!!

Anna Lee

FRIDAY

Prayer Focus

Today, our prayer focus is on water safety. There are many water activities like fishing, boating, and swimming that involve people who do not swim. The first positive step would be to learn to swim. Then, the next step is to practice what you know!

Daily Bible Reading

May 23

Numbers 23-25

Obituary on the McKneely site

Kathy Strickland of Kentwood

That is all for today!

Plan to have a great day!

THURSDAY

It is another day God gifted us with. I hope we can do our part to make it a great day for others as well as ourselves.

Daily Bible Reading

May 22 ~ Numbers 21-22

Sunday School Lesson

If you have not already done so, please give your lesson a first reading. Pay close attention to the Scripture. This is only for an introduction, not an in-depth study.

V.B.S. Is getting closer at my church. No matter if you are a member or a visitor, please register this week and make next week easier for you!

,Prayer Request – Church Couples

Joe and Barbara Baugh

Bobby and Betty Simpson

Kenneth and Yvonne Birch

Tom and Gail Brister

NAndy and Betty Taylor

Henry and Virginia McKenzie

David and Anna Lee Alford

Others, I failed to list

Be a blessing to others today!

Baptist Press may have some news that interests you this morning.

Use your personal prayer list to pray.

Anna Lee

TUESDAY

Prayer Focus

Today, let’s pray for all the students who get out of school this week. We pray for a good, productive, and fun summer, but also a safe one for each of the students. I pray many will be involved in Vacation Bible School, church camps, and other special summer events as well as the regular activities at church.

Verse of the Day

Daily Bible Reading

  • May 20
  • Numbers 16-17

Obituary

Roy Carl Graham

February 5, 1957 – May 18, 2025

A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Sunday, May 18, 2025 at his home. He was born February 5, 1957 in Amite, LA and was 68 years of age. He is survived by his wife, Rina Hawkins Graham; 2 sons, Roy Graham, Jr. and wife, Amanda and Darrel Graham; daughter, Lauren Graham; 1 sister, Betty Kinchen; 1 brother, Rodney Graham; grandchildren, Briton, Bryce, Haley, Braxton, Ava, Marcus, Londyn and Brandon; great-granddaughter, Paislee. Preceded in death by his parents, R.C. and Joyce Ballard Graham; and brother, Paul Graham. Visitation at Wilmer Missionary Baptist Church from 10:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Services conducted by Bro. Jason Skipper. Interment Wilmer Cemetery, Wilmer, LA. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Baptist Press

Thousands of DR volunteers deployed so far this year, more needed

Akin tells graduates to ‘speak the truth in love’

Kentucky pastor closes out Army chaplaincy career with 9 baptisms in Atlantic Ocean

One year later, teen’s near-fatal heart attack becomes tool to point others to Jesus

Akin tells graduates to ‘speak the truth in love’

FIRST-PERSON: Recognizing unseen servants in your church

Additional Scripture Study

‘Building Up Each Other’

2 Co. 1:23-2:11

Encouragement

  1. Look at the last photo.
  2. Place yourself in a similar situation
  3. Be an encourager to others!

Thank-you!

Thank you for being such special people! Continue to worship God and serve others. Be an example. Set the standards high. Put in the time. Work without expecting a check or recognition. God knows and appreciates you!

Anna Lee

Monday

Thanks to my church for recognizing bothhigh school and college graduates yesterday. As individuals, we need to do the same.

Good Morning to a New Week.

For many students and families this is the last week of the 24-25 school year. I hope you have started your new day and new week with a prayer. This may help if you have not already done so.

We studied this Scripture in Sunday School the last Sunday of March. It is a very comforting Scripture you may want to return to periodically.

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com/

Please pray for all the people who lived through the tornadoes on the 16th. As you pray, remember the actual storm experience, the many deaths, and the destruction thousands of people will be facing. Pray for churches as they try to lead the way despite damage and destruction. Pray for Baptists as they help access and rebuild homes and churches as people think of rebuilding lives, families, homes, jobs, etc. Pray too for Baptist Disaster Relief and for Samaritan’s Purse as they move in to help access and clear damage and to put lives together again.

Daily Bible Reading

  • May 19
  • Numbers 14-15

Additional Scripture Reading

‘God Knows All About Me!’

You have searched me, Lord,
    and you know me.
You know when I sit and when I rise;
    you perceive my thoughts from afar.
You discern my going out and my lying down;
    you are familiar with all my ways. Ps. 139:1-3

Notice the word “all”. He knows even our innermost thoughts!

Scripture for Sunday School Next Week

II Peter 3:8-18

Prayer Time

Spend some time in prayer periodically throughout the day.

Others

What you say and do today will impact others. Make sure that will be a positive impact!

Anna Lee

SUNDAY

Happy Lord’s Day!

Today at FBC, the graduates will be recognized and honored. We are thankful for them and for their achievements.

Prayer Focus

Let’s pray for the graduates as they close one chapter of their lives and move on to the next. Pray for their families too.

Verse of the Day

…I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.

Philippians 1:19

Obituary

Maurice Jay Bridges

January 15, 1945 – May 15, 2025

A resident of Kentwood, LA, passed away on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at his home surrounded by his loving wife and children. He was born January 15, 1945 in Magnolia, MS and was 80 years of age. He served as Constable for 4 years for St. Helena Parish and was an avid deer hunter. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Judy Bridges; 3 daughters, Debra “Dede” Bridges (Alton), Johna Blades (Cody), and Montana Pilcher (Kenny); 13 grandchildren, Erin Foster(Derrick), Zach Foster(Emma), Sunni Womack (Braxton), Adriohna “AJ” Blades, Curtis Blades, Dalton Blades, Bristol Blades, Kaiden Pilcher, Kaige Pilcher, Koby Pilcher, Martena “Tena” Pilcher, Harlee Wilson (BreAnna), and Heather McCraine (Dennis); 13 great-grandchildren, Blaise Sanders, Lennox “Lenny” Womack, Frankie Womack, Sabastian Brabham, Dominic Brabham, Emmie Lynn Brabham, Preston Hunt, Kinsley Hunt, Luke Foster, Lyla Foster, Kaysen Wilson, Kashtyn Wilson, and Kohlson Wilson. Preceded in death his parents, Willie and Tena Bridges; daughter, Rebecca Foster; sisters, Betty Wales, Monnie McNabb, Billie Ray Bullock, and Rhonda Bridges; brothers, Rocky Bridges, Thomas “Pudd” Bridges, and Curtis Bridges. The family would like to thank Pulse Hospice, his nurse Shani, and his caregiver James for their excellent care. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 9:00AM until Memorial Services at 12:00 Noon on Saturday, May 24, 2025. Services conducted by Rev. Donnie Easley. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Cottage Church, Kentwood. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Daily Bible Reading

  • May 18
  • Numbers 11-13
  • Looking ahead, I see we will read two chapters one day and three chapters the next day for a while. Isn’t that interesting?

Additional Scriptures to Read

‘Christ, Our Yes’

“Amen! Yes! Abba, Dear Father, Let me find pride in this – that my conscience testifies that I live my life in this world with holiness and godly…”

II Co. 1:12-20

Baptist Press

Storms leave death and destruction across Missouri, Kentucky

https://www.baptistpress.com/resource-library/news/storms-leave-death-and-destruction-across-missouri-kentucky/

Prayer List

Be sure to add the Bridge family, the graduates, and those in the area of the tornadoes to your prayer list this morning.

Have a very blessed Lord’s Day.

Anna Lee

SUNDAY ADDITION

Children’s Mission Camp Staffer Needed

We are still needing one girl staffer for Children’s Mission Camp and Mini MAC at Tall Timbers. The dates for camps for CMC and Mini MAC are July 19-27. Camp Staff Training will be held June 27-28.

We provide a stipend of $500 and we pay for mileage to and from camp.

If you know a college-aged girl who is interested and can work these two sets of dates, please have her contact Kristina.Henry@LBC.org ASAP.

Judy Fussell

Women’s Missions & Ministry

Louisiana Baptists

318.449.4268

Saturday

Hello, Friends,

It’s good to share again. I’m glad you “came” this morning.

Verse of the Day

This photo made me stop and think a while.

Prayer Focus

Today, let’s pray for those who are not saved. Let’s pray this is the day!

Daily Bible Readings

  • May 17
  • Numbers 8-10

Sunday School Lesson Tomorrow

  • “Be Alert”
  • Passages from II Peter and Jude

Obituaries

Sylvia Thompson Misita

June 6, 1935 – May 16, 2025

A resident of Independence, LA, passed away on Friday, May 16, 2025 at her home. She was born June 6, 1935 in Amite, LA and was 89 years of age. “Even in the face of her declining health challenge, her enthusiasm for life was always present, she remained internally strong and willing to do what it took to remain mobile. She was determined to be able to do for herself, never allowing her spirit to falter.” She was truly a remarkable lady, she spent her life serving others within the family. Others needs were her focus. We became ever more amazed at her strength and determination until the end. We will miss you Mom, but I know you will remain in our hearts pushing us the family forward. She is survived by 1 daughter, Susan Misita Petty and husband, Spurgeon; 2 sons, John Michael Misita and wife, Cindy, and Anthony Jay Misita; 6 grandchildren, Jennifer Lynn Fleming, Joseph Misita, Micah Marie Misita, Kaci Misita Guidry, Nicholas Misita, and Austin Shaw Dillon; 9 great-grandchildren, Aidan Fleming, Mary Payton Fleming, Denton Bowen, Benjamin Guidry, Marcelle Guidry, Luke Guidry, Drew Peyton Dillon, Ava Tyler Dillon, and Landon Misita. Preceded in death by her son, Dwayne Thomas Misita; daughter, Toni Lynn Misita; her husband, Anthony Thomas Misita; parents, John and Dorothy Thompson; 2 sisters, Frances Joan Thompson and Dorothy Ann Thompson Bobbit; 2 brothers, John Rex Thompson and Frank Joe Thompson; and aunt, Ruthie Lautier. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Monday, May 19, 2025. Services conducted by Deacon Eddie Renz. Interment Amite Memorial Garden, Amite, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Jeanette Relan

March 28, 1941 – May 15, 2025

A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at her home in Amite, LA. She was born March 28, 1941 in New Orleans, LA and was 84 years of age. She is survived by her children, BimBo Relan, Kalola Harrelson (Mike), and Tony Relan; grandchildren, Chance Relan, Denver Harrelson, Lundyn Harrelson, Kiley Harrelson, Jolene Relan, and Dakota Settoon; great-granddaughter, Naomi Harrelson; sister-in-law, Margaret Relan; and her good friend, Wanda Oliver Donovan. Preceded in death by her husband, Bennie Relan; 2 sons, Sam “Chunky” Relan and Richard “Balbo” Relan; parents, William and Della Rainey; brothers-in-law, Frank Relan, Sambo Relan, Joe Relan, and Charles Relan, Jr. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 11:00AM until religious services at 1:30PM on Thursday, May 22, 2025. Services conducted by Ricky Relan. Interment Amite Memorial Gardens, Amite, LA. Pallbearers will be Mike Harrelson, Denver Harrelson, Chance Relan, Denny Currier, Charles “Chuck” Reid, Thomas “BoBo” Hood, and Kevin Morgan. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com/

Additional Bible Readings

‘A God of Deliverance’ 

“Dear Father, great and gentle one, When I am utterly,

unbearably crushed so that I despair of life itself, when I
feel as if I have received the…”

2 Co. 1:3-11

Have a wonderful Lord’s Day! May

you be especially blessed as you worship

Him today.

Anna Lee

Friday

What happened to this week?

Time seems to go by so quickly. I think it is because of “being busy”.

Prayer Focus

Today, let’s pray for the elderly in our communities. Especially pray for those who live alone. You may want to add some of them to your daily prayer list.

Verse of the Day

Obituary

Raymond Chabaud

October 13, 1950 – May 12, 2025

A resident of Greensburg, LA, passed away on Monday, May 12, 2025 at his home. He was born October 13, 1950 in New Orleans, LA and was 74 years of age. He is survived by 2 daughters, Alisa Miller (Tod) and Jessica Beyl (Timothy); grandchildren, Brittany Allen (Chris), Tyler Miller (Tiffany LeJeune), Montana Kirkland, Kyleigh Beyl, and Kayleigh Beyl; great-grandchildren, Emerie Allen and Brinley Miller; ex-wife, Cindy Miley Chabaud; and numerous brothers, sisters, and other family members. Preceded in death by by parents, Adolph Chabaud, Jr. And Louise Cambre Chabaud; significant other, Belinda Allen; and his in-laws, Ruthie Lee Gerald and Woodrow Gerald. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Friday, May 16, 2025. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Graduates’ Bibles

Today is the last day for you to sign the Bibles for our 2025 graduates. Sunday, the graduates will be honored with a special breakfast and recognized during the 10:30 A.M. worship sservice.

Vacation Bible School

June 2 is coming quickly. Sign up your children and/or grandchildren in the church office Monday-Friday 8:00 A.M.- 5:00 P.M.

Sunday School Scriptures

  • May 18, 2025
  • II Peter 2:1-3 and 17-19
  • Jude 17-23

Additional Bible Reading (and Praying)

‘A God of Comfort’ (2 Co. 1:3-11)

“Dear Father, great and gentle one, Blessed are you God and Father of our Lord
Jesus Christ. You are the Father of mercies and the God of all…”

Be a blessing in some way today.

Anna Lee