Let’s pray for our country and it’s leaders. Pray for our people who are hurting because of storms, fires, drought, accidents, long-time illnesses, etc.
Today, we want to focus some of our prayers on Sherry Simpson, David Sellers, Velma Anthony, and Eddie Keith Schwartz. As you pray for them, please also pray for their families. We also want to continue to pray for the families of those who have recently lost loved ones: Kathey Dunn, Dennis Walker, Chris Primes, and others.
Read the Bible Today
January 27
Mark 10-11
Wedding
We attended the wedding of a grandson, Braden, at the beautiful, old Frost Chapel on the campus of Berry College in Rome, Georgia over the weekend. He and his bride, Virginia, were in band and the same class back during their high school days. They seem to make a wonderful, Christian couple.
Special Thanks
For the second time, I called upon Laurie Miller to teach my Sunday School class. Thanks for filling in and doing a good job.
Weather
I am ready for spring weather, but think winter is hanging around for a while. Be sure to check on others who are not well-prepared for the next cold days we are facing soon.
In closing . . .
May we live a life that honors God today and work hard to show love to everyone we meet.
Today, I have special requests from family members of Sherry Simpson and Eddie Keith Schwartz. Sherry’s brother, Kenny Ray Gill, reports that after time in Hood Memorial and North Oaks, including the ICU, Sherry is being transferred to Ochsner in New Orleans where she will be seeing a specialist for her newly diagnosed condition, a problem with her immunity. Eddie Kerith was home, but having some issues yesterday. Charlie Schwartz requests that we pray for Eddie Keith. “Please and thank-you” for praying.
Read the Bible
Jan. 24 – Luke 7
Jan. 25 – Luke 8
Jan. 26 – Luke 9
I am current (Up-to date) with my readings. Are you? If not, double up until you catch up. Go ahead and do it before you get behind even more.
Sunday School Lesson
If you have a Sunday School book, read the lesson material for this week. Take your time and really pay attention to the material presented.
Thankfulness
Today, I am thankful that last night was the last really cold night for a while. Maybe this will be the day we can get out of our homes and see people other than family members.
Pray for those having a hard time in this cold weather.
Pray for the President Trump as he continues his first week.
Pray for Sherry Simpson who is now being transferred to Ochsner.
Read the Bible Today
Luke 6
I’m enjoying reading with you this year. I have a suggestion that may help you remember to read if you do not have a set time to do so. Put your Bible (and pen and highlighters, if you are using them) on a table or desk in your living area. Leave your Bible open to the passage you just read. During the day, you will see your Bible and be reminded. Another idea is to choose a regular time to read and set the clock on your phone. When it alarms, stop what you are doing and read. A third suggestion is to partner with a friend and read at a chosen time each day. Doing both suggestion two and suggestion three would be an extra good plan.
Daily Schedules
Our schedules should be getting back to a routine when this COLD weather gets out of our area. I hope you got by without any broken pipes or with frozen pipes that thaw but are not broken. As I usually tell you, check on others who may not have fared as well as you did.
Church Schedules
They should be back on their regular schedule Sunday.
School Schedules
Getting children back on their normal routine will also make it easier to get children back on their routine.
Spend some time reading our lessson for Sunday and/or the Scriptures for the lesson. Read the verses from another version of the Bible to possibly get a better understanding.
No new obituaries.
Today, I am thankful we do not have any new obituaries to list. We have lost several good friends lately. I’m sure you may have too. Adjust your prayer list as needed.
Let’s pray for the weather situation in Louisiana where we do not usually have such low temperatures and so much snow. Yesterday was snow day. Today is ice day! Driving is not safe today.
Pray for people east of us who are now or soon will be facing the low temperatures and much snow.
Read the Bible Today
January 22
Luke 5
Obituaary
Nina Kathryn “Kathy” Daniel Dunn
February 13, 1946 – January 20, 2025
Nina Kathryn “Kathy” Daniel Dunn
February 13, 1946 – January 20, 2025
Nina Kathryn “Kathy” Daniel Dunn passed away on Monday, January 20, 2025 at her home. Kathy was born February 13, 1946, to Norris and Melrose Cook Daniel and was a lifetime resident of Amite, Louisiana. Kathy was an active member of Kedron Baptist Church, teaching Sunday School, leading music, and teaching years of VBS every summer. Kathy was especially proud that she was able to mentor her grandsons, getting them to church, witnessing to them and seeing them accept Jesus as their savior. Kathy and her husband of 43 years, Richard, had many businesses in the Amite area throughout the years, including Dunn Construction Company, Riverside Grocery & Hardware, as well as Riverside Septic. Kathy enjoyed interacting with and becoming friends with many of her customers, employees, and vendors over the years. Since retirement Kathy loved volunteering at the Hope Center, being able to help people, and always asking if she could pray with the people she encountered.
Kathy is survived by three daughters: Lori Dunn Vicknair (Chad), Dana Dunn Meyn (Wade), and Kristen Dunn Hemphill (Dannie), sisters: Brenda Daniel Bryant, Barbara Daniel Yerby, Debbie Daniel Rogers (C.F.), Frances Daniel Smith (Sherman), sister in law Diane Dunn Scott (Danny), brother Norris Daniel (Valerie) and brothers in law: Ricky Dickerson, Leroy Wilson (Margaret Ann); grandchildren; Courtney Vicknair Behrnes (Derick), Jade Patton Bullard (Daniel), Kayren Vicknair Ruiz (Dennis), Savannah Ballard, Richard “Chase” Ballard, Raina “Ceph” Sofge, Emma Sofge, Joshua Davis, Brayden Matherne, and Hunter Meyn, seven great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Richard Wilson Dunn, daughter Kelly Dunn Sofge, sister Suzie Daniel Dickerson and numerous brothers and sisters in law.
Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home in Amite on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 12 p.m. until religious services conducted by Bro. Harrell Sharkey Jr. at 2 p.m. Interment in Kedron Cemetery.
{Kathy was such a good friend for many years. We did church, vacations, children, visits to restaurants, fishing, sewing, etc. together. We got to visit her at her home recently. She smiled and did her special little laugh the whole time we were there. The first thing she told us was that she was sick and knew where she was going! I have no doubt at all that she is in heaven now.}
Prayer Meeting
A decision was made yesterday to NOT have any church activities tonight due to driving conditions. That includes adults, youth, and children. Stay home and be safe. I have heard that several other churches have also made that decision.
Women on Mission & Girls on Misssion
(FBC, Kentwood)
Sunday, January 26
5 P.M. in New Hope and Girl’s rooms
Operation Christmas Child
Thanks for all your help packing 450 “shoeboxes” in 2024. It’s time to look forward to our next “shoeboxes” now. We are kicking off 2025 with visits to adult classrooms Sunday. I hope you are excited to begin another year of shoeboxes too! This year we will do some of our work by classrooms. That will be both different and fun!
Sunday School
The Scriptures for Sunday are Exodus 25:1-9 & 31:1-6. The lesson is titled “Instructions”. It’s never to0 early to start your preparations. I feel sure we can get out and travel safely by Sunday.
Phone Calls
Check with friends who live alone. They will surely be happy to know someone care enough about them to call and talk with them. Be a blessing to them!
Today, let’s focus our prayers on safety during the snowstorm and on the many families who have had a death recently. Let’s also pray for safety as people play and drive in the snow we are not accustomed to here. Pray for all the children and teens who are out of school and in need of close supervision.
Deaths
First, let me tell you the service for Dennis Walker was one of the most special services we have ever attended. That showed how special Dennis. was, not only to us, but also to many other people. We love all three of his children and were blessed to meet two of his three grandchildren. If Dennis knew you, he loved you and wanted you to be with Jesus in Heaven one day. His legacy lives on in many of us!
Guy Nelson Lea, Jr.
January 27, 1944 – January 17, 2025
Guy Nelson Lea, Jr., 80, a resident of Line Creek community in Kentwood, La, passed away peacefully in his home on Friday, January 17, 2025. Nelson or “Bub”, as he was affectionately called by his family, was born on January 27, 1944 in Greenwell Springs, La to Guy Nelson Lea, Sr. and Cheba Inez Carroll Lea. He was raised in Greenwell Springs and graduated from Central High School. He served as a MP in the Army Reserve for six years in Hammond, La. Nelson worked for many years with Formosa Plastics in Baton Rouge, where he later retired. But not to the rocking chair! He purchased a bull dozer and completed many clearing and clean-up jobs through the years. He returned to the workforce after moving back to Kentwood, and began a career with the Parish of Tangipahoa, where he stayed until age 78, working on the roads and bridges of the parish. Nelson was also a very talented carpenter. He built two beautiful homes with his own hands – one in Greenwell Springs and one in Kentwood, where he lived out his final 25 plus years. In his spare time, he loved to be on his tractor and lawn mower or sit on the back porch drinking coffee and visiting with friends and family that stopped by. Nelson is preceded in death by his parents; his infant brother, Lloyd Lane Lea; his niece, Erin Rachel Lea; and his brother-in-law, Vernon Branch. He is survived by one sister Sandra Lea Branch of Pine, La; two brothers, Chris Lea and wife Sheila of Duck Hill, Ms. and Kernan Lea and wife Debbie of Kentwood, La; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Arrangements: McKneely in Kentwood La Saturday, January 25, 2025 Wake 9:00-11:00 Service at 11:00 Interment Line Creek Cemetery Pallbearers: Kernan Lea Brady Lea Taylor Lea James Lea Adam Lea Rodney Hoyt Kevin Luper Honorary Pallbearers: Robert Hayden Brad Bridges. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Sharon B. Hunter
December 9, 1942 – January 17, 2025
A resident of Walker, LA, passed away on Friday, January 17, 2025 at her home. She was born December 9, 1942 in Ringgold, LA and was 82 years of age. She is survived by her husband, Robbie L. Hunter, Sr.; daughter, Darlene Doss (Jim); 3 sons, Randy Fowler, Donny Owens, and Robbie Hunter, Jr. (Shelly); 10 grandchildren, Grayson Doss (Edie), Melissa Carley (John-Michael), Josh Doss, Jessica Owens, Blake Owens, Briana Owens, Bobbie Anne Fowler, Michael Fowler, Taylor Felder (Christian), and Jathen Hunter; 7 great-grandchildren and one on the way; 2 sisters, Maxine Morgan and Tammy Blake; brother, Mark Blake (Nita); sister-in-law, Diane Booty. Preceded in death by parents, Addis Blake and Audrey Gray; 3 sisters, Barbara Wallingsford, Catherine Brown, and Charlotte Coker; and a brother, Larry Blake. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 12:00 Noon until religious services at 2:00PM on Monday, January 20, 2025. Services conducted by Rev. Larry Dudley and Rev. Patrick Wollerson. Interment New Jerusalem Cemetery, Bolivar, LA. Pallbearers will be Johnny Martin, Grayson Doss, Blake Owens, Christian Felder, Dustin Thames and Jathen Hunter. Honorary Pallbearer will be Chad Bossom. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Doris Louise Shaffett
June 2, 1943 – January 19, 2025
A resident of Kentwood, LA , passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2025 at her home. She was born June 2, 1943 in Independence, LA and was 81 years of age. She is survived by her 1 daughter, Lisa Shaffett; 3 sons, Newell Didone, David Brown, and Roy shaffett; 2 sisters, Ruby Ridgedell and Vermie Simmons; 1 brother, Andrew Brown; 10 grandchildren, Christina Thornhill, Kimberly Kowalski, Cody Brown, Newell Didone, Jr., Aaron Didone, Dustin Brown, T. J. Stinson, Darbie Patin, Rodney Shaffett, and Devin Brown; 10 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by her husband, Johnny W. Shaffett; brothers, Richard W. Brown, Jerry Brown, and Jack Brown; sister, Orgie Ruth Seal; daughter, Debbie Brown; mother, Nannie McDaniel; father, Wallace Brown. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Scott Matherne
November 16, 1967 – January 19, 2025
A resident of Greensburg, LA, passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2025 at his home. He was born November 16, 1967 in Independence, LA and was 57 years of age. He is survived by his daughter, Tara Matherne; 5 grandchildren; mother, Clara Ann Scott Dupre. Preceded in death by his grandparents, Robert and Almatine Scott and Alton and Marie Matherne. Scott loved music of all types and laughter. Pallbearers are Bud Scott, Lenny James, Rusty James, Cade Hermann, David Carter, Ed Evans, Wyatt Evans, and Jeff Gatlin. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 10:00AM until religious services at 2:00PM on Jan. 24, 2025, Friday. Interment New Zion Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. In lieu of flowers, Scott requested a donation in his memory for Tunnel to Towers or St. Joseph Hospice, Covington, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
One more death:
Kathy Daniels Dunn also passed away after a brief issness. Her service is scheduled for Saturday. The obituary should be posted in a couple of days.
WEATHER
I was surprised when I took my first glance at my phone this morning. It had already started to snow, just flurries, but still snow. It doesn’t cling and last, but that will happen later today.
Be careful to take good care of people and your home. Think real hard. Who can you help, or just check on, today? We’re going to have a long few days with many of us staying safely at home.
Prayer Meeting
Some churches are having services Wednesday and some are not. Use good judgment as you make a decision about getting out for prayer meeting or anything else in the next few days.
You may not normally do this, but if not, today is a good day to start. Let’s thank God and servicemen for our electrical power and our telephone service that works 99+% of the time.
Take good care of your family, neighbors, home, etc. to the best of your ability. Don’t endanger your health if at all possible.
Pray for people who must be out and about. Have warm meals and beverages to help your body on these COLD days. Maintain a connection with people outside your home.
Pray for the extra needs in our community during the COLD days!
Let’s pray for our country as we inaugurate a new president.
Let’s also pray for much of our country with weather alerts today.
Daily Bible Reading Passage
January 20
Luke 2
Update
David Sellers is still hospitalized in New Orleans and undergoing tests. Please pray for him and his family in your prayers.
Velma Anthony continues to be in the Amite nursing home. Please say some special prayers for her.
Cold Weather
Pray for those who will face problems with their homes (pipes) during this cold week we are facing. Please check on family, neighbors, friends, and anyone else who might have problems.
Stay off the road unless it is absolutely necessary for you to be out. We don’t have special equipment to work on our roads since we don’t usually face the problems our area is expected to have this week. Also, most people do not know how to drive on the roads in this kind of weather.
I do not foresee a problem with posting TPL this week, but if that should happen, I have already given you the Bible Reading Passages for the week. You might want to print them or write them down. If you forget to do so and cannot get to this link, just read one more chapter a day.
I forgot to share that Sherry Simpson got a diagnosis which is treatable and has already started that treatment. She’s already better. Her family is thankful.
Chance Ohern is doing well. He’s still in isolation. The transplanted organs are working and helping him show improvement.
A New Baby
KK and Job Hulkaby have another son, Silas!
Silas Birch
1/16/25
4:40pm
6lbs 12oz
22 inches
They are home with their first son, Josiah, now.
May God continue to richly bless the Hulkaby home.
Obituaries
Charlie Schwartz shared this with me.
Richard “Timmothy” Lynch
November 19, 1948 — January 14, 2025
Richard “Timmy” Lynch, age 76, a resident of Baton Rouge, passed away on Tuesday, January 14th, 2025.
Timmy grew up in Kentwood, Louisiana with his mom, his sister, and his grandparents. He graduated from Kentwood High School in 1966 where he played in the Kangaroo Band. He went to college at LSU where he studied business, served in the ROTC, and played alto trumpet in the Tiger Band. He started dating his wife, Priscilla while he was working as a lifeguard at the Kentwood swimming pool in 1968. He and Priscilla were married on May 1st, 1970. After college, he lived in Baton Rouge where he worked at Exxon as a supervisor for 36 years and served as a member of the American Society of Safety Engineers. He loved grilling, swimming, working in the yard, making daily trips to Home Depot, and watching the Tigers.
Timmy is survived by his wife, Priscilla Lynch; children, Carlton “Chiceaux” Lynch and his wife, Joy Lynch; Jennifer O’Quin and her husband Cavin O’Quin; his sister Patty Dupuy and her husband Hubert Dupuy; his nieces and nephews, Mae Stevens and her husband, Scott Stevens, Casey Graham and her husband, Craig “Bubba” Graham, Jesse Nunnery and his wife, Stacey Nunnery, Greg Dupuy and his wife, Erin Dupuy, and Kevin Dupuy and his wife, Kelsa Dupuy; his grandchildren, Hannah and Micah Lynch, and Hailey Waite and Trennon, Caiden, and Ryan O’Quin; and his great-nieces and great-nephews, Maggie and Lucas Stevens, Carter, Conner, and Cooper Graham, and Anthony Martinez, Katlynn Johnson, and Jesse Jr. and Emma Nunnery, and Oliver and Talullah Dupuy.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Ayleene “Mimi” King and James “Jimmy” Lynch; his grandmother and grandfather, Lillie Mae “Maw-Maw” and George Kliesch; and his great-niece, Baylee Nunnery.
Visitation will take place at Resthaven Funeral Home on Sunday, January 19th, 2025 from 10am until services at 12pm. Burial will follow at Line Creek Baptist Church Cemetery in Kentwood, Louisiana.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home (lbch.org) or the LSU Tiger Band (thefournotesclub.com) in the name, Richard Lynch.
The family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to the staff at Ochsner Medical Center, St. George Fire Station 66, and EMS Station 20 for taking care of Timmy during his last days.
A resident of Amite, LA, passed into life everlasting on Wednesday, January 15th, 2025. He was born in Franklinton, LA on October 29th, 1959. Buck was a 1978 graduate of Woodland High School who proudly served his country in the United States Army, beginning his service in Armor School in May 1978 at Fort Knox, KY and then being assigned to the 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colorado. He was also a huge LSU fan. He is survived by his daughter, Nicole Miller Lianne of Lafayette, LA and her partner, Peak Chanthavongsy; 3 grandchildren, Brynlea Sanders, Benton Sanders and Kobelyn Miller; 1 niece, Jessica Sharp Rodeillat and husband Phillip of Port Vincent, LA; 1 great-niece, Jordan Allen; 2 great-nephews, Landon and Peyton Allen. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clinton and Betty (Manning) Sharp; brothers, Jack and Russell Earl Sharp; paternal grandparents, Herman and Annah Mae Sharp; maternal grandparents, Edwin and Lillie Mae Manning.
Hayden Lamar Madison
April 26, 2023 – January 9, 2025
A resident of Greensburg, LA, passed away on Thursday, January 9, 2025 in Amite, LA. He was born April 26, 2023 in Hammond, LA and was 1 year of age. He is survived by his mother, Krista Madison and her fiance, Matthew Carpenter; brothers and sisters, Lucas Madison, Serenity King, Liam King, and Karsen Carpenter; grandmother, Earlean Baker; aunts, Ashlee Madison, Roxsanne Dunaway, and Marlee Ratliff; and an uncle, Keith “TJ” Madison. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 10:00AM until religious services at 12:00 Noon on Friday, January 24, 2025. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Patricia Stephen Holden
September 3, 1939 – January 16, 2025
A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Thursday, January 16, 2025 at Hood Memorial Hospital in Amite, LA. She was born September 3, 1939 in Mammoth, PA and was 85 years of age. She is survived by her 1 daughter, Connie Holden Cefalu (Francis); 1 son, Rodney Holden (Sheila); 3 grandchildren, Stephanie Holden, Christi Cefalu Monteleone (Payton), and Kevin Cefalu (Breanne); 5 great-grandchildren, Landon Lawrence (Katie), Kelsey Gilhaus, Drew Cefalu, McKenzie Cefalu, and soon to be born Kallie Cefalu; 3 great-great-grandchildren, Lawson Lawrence, Karsen Lawrence, and Maverick Carter. Preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd Holden; parents, Alexander Stephen and Ann Matinosky Stephen; brothers and sister, Barbara Ann Stephen, John Stephen, Billie Stephen, Jimmie Stephen, and Chubby Stephen. A private Graveside Service will be held at Sharon Cemetery, Amite, LA at 10:00AM Saturday, January 18, 2025. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Christopher Kimble Primes CSM (Ret)
January 12, 1967 – January 17, 2025
U.S. Army Veteran
CSM (Ret.) Christopher Kimble Primes, 58, of Hammond, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family and friends.
Chris was born on January 12, 1967, in Amite, Louisiana, to the late William M. Primes Jr. and Shirley J. Primes. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and man of God. He graduated from Amite High School in 1985 and later earned a degree in Criminal Justice from Southeastern Louisiana University.
Chris’s life was dedicated to service. He joined the United States Army in 1984, completing his Basic Training and Military Police Training at Ft. McClellan, Alabama. He served in the Army Reserves as part of the 433rd MP Company in Hammond as a military policeman before transferring to the Louisiana Army National Guard. Rising through the ranks of the 205th Engineer Battalion, he ultimately became its esteemed Command Sergeant Major.
For 20 years, Chris served on the Louisiana National Guard Counter Drug Task Force, where he was assigned to U.S. Customs and later to the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office Tri-Parish Narcotics Task Force. His exceptional skills and dedication earned him a position as a sniper on the Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team. He proudly deployed to Afghanistan in 2003–2004 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, where he was awarded the Bronze Star for his bravery and leadership.
Chris was a devoted member of Seeker’s Point Church in Hammond, LA. His faith guided his life, and his passions brought him joy—whether it was hunting, fishing, boating, or spending time at the beach. However, nothing compared to the love he had for his grandchildren: Alex Primes, Joy Primes, Chandler Neustrom, and Ellis Neustrom.
Chris is survived by his beloved wife, Renee Bennet Primes, whom he married in 2014; his two children, Christopher William Primes and Allison Neustrom (Ethan Neustrom); and his cherished grandchildren; his brother Dawson Kimble Primes (Betsy Hall Primes) and their sons Christopher Mack, Kyle Primes and Caleb Primes. Also survived by his former wife of 23 years and mother of his children, Lisa Williams Magliolo.
A Celebration of Life service to honor Chris will be held at Seeker’s Point Church in Hammond, LA, on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 10:00 AM. A reception with food, fellowship, and sharing of stories will follow at Camp Chemekette in Robert, LA.
Chris’s unwavering dedication to his family, his country, and his community will forever remain an inspiration to all who knew and loved him.
Sharon B. Hunter
December 9, 1942 – January 17, 2025
A resident of Walker, LA, passed away on Friday, January 17, 2025 at her home. She was born December 9, 1942 in Ringgold, LA and was 82 years of age. She is survived by her husband, Robbie L. Hunter, Sr.; daughter, Darlene Doss (Jim); 3 sons, Randy Fowler, Donny Owens, and Robbie Hunter, Jr. (Shelly); 10 grandchildren, Grayson Doss (Edie), Melissa Carley (John-Michael), Josh Doss, Jessica Owens, Blake Owens, Briana Owens, Bobbie Anne Fowler, Michael Fowler, Taylor Felder (Christian), and Jathen Hunter; 7 great-grandchildren and one on the way; 2 sisters, Maxine Morgan and Tammy Blake; brother, Mark Blake (Nita); sister-in-law, Diane Booty. Preceded in death by parents, Addis Blake and Audrey Gray; 3 sisters, Barbara Wallingsford, Catherine Brown, and Charlotte Coker; and a brother, Larry Blake. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 12:00 Noon until religious services at 2:00PM on Monday, January 20, 2025. Services conducted by Rev. Larry Dudley and Rev. Patrick Wollerson. Interment New Jerusalem Cemetery, Bolivar, LA. Pallbearers will be Johnny Martin, Grayson Doss, Blake Owens, Christian Felder, Dustin Thames and Jathen Hunter. Honorary Pallbearer will be Chad Bossom. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Read the Bible Today
January 19
Luke 2
I’m enjoyed reviewing all of these Scriptures.
Let’s pray for a great Lord’s Day in all of our churches. Be present if you possibly can. If not possible, watch online services.
Now, we might also say we will all be thinking ahead to tomorrow and to next Tuesday. My phone has a new “change off tone” concerning the weather for next week. I hate to think of it, but it now says “4-8 inches of snow”! Hopefully, it will change and say, “We made a mistake! A normal January day for SE Louisiana.” Just in case the weather forecaster is correct, we need to make major plans for the weather.
Going back to the Scripture above. We might all have some “character building” next week!
Prayer Focus
Let’s focus our prayers for early next week on the weather and the inauguration.
Take care of your neighbors in a big way next week. May we all stay safe and warm!
Obituaries
Elaine Meister
January 17, 1940 – January 14, 2025
A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at Hospice of Baton Rouge Butterfly Wing in Baton Rouge, LA. She was born January 17, 1940 in New Orleans, LA and was 84 years of age. She is survived by her son, John Thomas Meister and wife, Charlotte; daughter, Cathy Acierto and husband, Danny; grandchildren, Kevin, Rachel, Stephanie, Rodney, Amber, Andrew, Stiffany, James and Sophia; great-grandchildren, Alexis, Braelynn, and Jaxyn; sister, Joan Burkhalter. Preceded in death by her parents, “Pec” Pecoraro and Carrie Pecoraro; husband, John Meister; daughter, Gretchen Meister; granddaughter, Misty Meister. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 11:00AM at First Baptist Church of Amite. Services conducted by Bro. Matt White. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Dennis Roy Walker
December 29, 1951 – January 15, 2025
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7.
Dennis Walker was a faithful follower of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was blessed with a beautiful singing voice and spent most of his life as a minister of music at several Baptist churches in south Louisiana. He continued his ministry as a Speech Pathologist, where he offered to pray with every patient he treated. Chances are, if you knew Dennis, he prayed with you as well.
Second to God, his children, and even more so, his grandchildren, were the joys of his life. We are comforted by the fact that his is now reunited with his precious wife, Julie, and they are singing in heaven’s choir together. We know without a doubt that God greeted him, “Well done, thy good and faithful servant.”
Dennis was born on December 29, 1951 in Denham Springs and passed away on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at the age of 73. He is survived by his daughter Kara Faller (Andrew), daughter Kacie, son Kody (Jenny); grandchildren James and John Faller and Mattie Joy Walker; sisters Marion Carpenter (Joe), Dianne Stilley (Jerry), Sharon Cowan (Herb); sisters-in-law Joycelyn Lemons and Janet Dufreche, brother-in-law Bobby Cortez (Jessica); and numerous nieces and nephews.
Dennis is preceded in death by the love of his life, Julie Cortez Walker, his parents, Roy and Ad Glascock Walker, and his nephews, Stephen Cowan and Larry Lemons, Jr. We will celebrate his life on Monday, January 20th at First Baptist Church of Amite, 117 East Olive Street. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am until the funeral service at 1:00 pm. Interment will follow at Amite Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, please make monetary donations to the music ministry at your home church, or at his, FBC of Ponchatoula, 325 East Pine Street, Ponchatoula, LA 70454, to continue sharing the gospel through song and as a way to honor his memory, make sure that everyone you meet knows the love of Jesus. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.
Patricia Stephen Holden
September 3, 1939 – January 16, 2025
A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Thursday, January 16, 2025 at Hood Memorial Hospital in Amite, LA. She was born September 3, 1939 in Mammoth, PA and was 85 years of age. She is survived by her 1 daughter, Connie Holden Cefalu (Francis); 1 son, Rodney Holden (Sheila); 3 grandchildren, Stephanie Holden, Christi Cefalu Monteleone (Payton), and Kevin Cefalu (Breanne); 5 great-grandchildren, Landon Lawrence (Katie), Kelsey Gilhaus, Drew Cefalu, McKenzie Cefalu, and soon to be born Kallie Cefalu; 3 great-great-grandchildren, Lawson Lawrence, Karsen Lawrence, and Maverick Carter. Preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd Holden; parents, Alexander Stephen and Ann Matinosky Stephen; brothers and sister, Barbara Ann Stephen, John Stephen, Billie Stephen, Jimmie Stephen, and Chubby Stephen. A private Graveside Service will be held at Sharon Cemetery, Amite, LA at 10:00AM Saturday, January 18, 2025. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Another Death
Chris Primes, son of Billy and Shirley Primes of Roseland and later Amite, passed away yesterday morning. There is no obituary for him at this time, but you can find comments by his brother, Dawson.
Read the Bible Today
Today’s reading is Luke 1.
Don’t forget your Sunday School lesson, “Persecution”.
Weather Plans
Don’t forget groceries, fuel, plants, people, pets, etc. Be prepared!
Bible Readings
As a means of preparation for possible difficulties, I will give you some Bible readings ahead of schedule. You night want to copy them or print them.
Jan. 18 – Luke 1
Jan. 19 – Luke 2
Jan. 20 – Luke 3
Jan. 21 – Luke 4
Jan. 22 – Luke 5
Jan. 23 – Luke 6
Jan. 24 – Luke 7
Jan. 25 – Luke 8
Jan. 26 – Luke 9
I am enjoying my Bible readings. I hope you are too!
Good Morning. I hope this verse inspires you today.
Verse of the Day
Daily Bible Reading Today
January 16
Mark 15-16
Prayer Focus Today
Today, let’s focus on the cold weather ahead and making needed preparations for the cold weather. Pray for others and help as needed so they can be as comfortable as you are.
Obituaries
I ran across this obituary just now.
Hettie Jean Kliesch
March 30, 1939 – December 6, 2024
Hettie Jean Kliesch, 85 of Gillsburg, passed away Friday, December 6, 2024 at her residence. Visitation will be held on Sunday, December 8, 2024 from 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm at Historic Gillsburg Baptist Church in Gillsburg. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, December 8, 2024 at 3:00 pm at Historic Gillsburg Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Old Gillsburg Baptist Church Cemetery. Dr. Victor Walsh will officiate. Special music will be performed by Rodney Dykes.
Hettie was born in Gillsburg, Mississippi on March 30, 1939. Her adult life took her to Carthage, Mississippi and Kentwood, Louisiana, but she later relocated back to Gillsburg after her farming days with Bud concluded. She loved her family very deeply and will always be remembered as a giver that gave her best and always from the heart. Hettie was a blessing to so very many people. As a longtime member of Historic Gillsburg Baptist Church, she cherished her church family and faithfully served the Lord.
She was preceded in death by her Husband, Bud O. Kliesch; her Son, Ellison Bates, Jr.; her Parents, Jim Hunter & Lena Mae McMillan Newman; three Sisters, Helen Marie Reynolds, Geraldine Wall, Catherine Newman.
She is survived by her Son, Emmett Bates, of Gillsburg; her Daughter, Elissa Jones, of Gillsburg; two Grandchildren, James Bates, Haley Walker (Dustin); one Brother, Jimmy Newman (Margie); one Sister, Louise Brumfield; three Great Grandchildren, Lane Walker, Judd Walker Shep Walker; her faithful dog, Lucy; and a number of Nieces, Nephews, and other family members.
Pallbearers will be John Browning, Lee King, Milton Brumfield, James Clark, Jarrett Wilson, and Greg Walsh.
The family would like to extend special thanks to Hettie’s special friend and caregiver, Annette Jenkins, for all of her love and care through this difficult season.
Sharkey Funeral Home in Summit is in charge of the arrangements. Friends may sign an online guest register book at http://www.sharkeyfuneralhome.com.
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Charlie Schwartz and Mary Alice Fox pointed out this obituary yesterday.
Alton Wayne Frazier
June 20, 1950 – January 14, 2025
Alton “Wayne” Frazier, 74, of Summit, passed away on January 14, 2025 at Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center. Wayne was born in McComb, MS to James Benton and Lonie Mae Frazier and grew up in Kentwood, LA.
Visitation is at 12pm on Thursday, January 16th, with service to follow at 2pm at Hartman-Jones Funeral Home.
Wayne’s life was marked by his love for family, and a passion for sports. Wayne was a proud LSU Tiger, playing football for the University after graduating from Kentwood High School where he was selected All-State three years in a row by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association from 1966-1968.
His professional journey reflected his adaptability and strong work ethic, beginning his career in the logging industry, then transitioning to the oil and gas industry. In the 1990s, he found his final calling as a realtor, a profession he continued until his passing. Wayne found joy in deer hunting and remained a devoted LSU football fan throughout his life.
Wayne is survived by his wife of 53 years, Margaret Roberts Frazier, his sons Brandon (Rebekah) Frazier of Summit and Adam “Blake” (Penny) Frazier of Witchita Falls, TX, and his granddaughters Elana, Maisey, and Savannah.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sisters, Bessie Bell Frazier Brabham and Katherine Frazier Hernandez.
Hartman-Jones Funeral Home 1801 Delaware Avenue McComb, MS 39648
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Kody Walker called to share this information concerning his dad, Dennis Walker.
Funeral: Monday, January 19, 2025
FBC, Amite
Visitation begins at 9:00 A.M. followed by the 1:00 service.
Burial will be in Amite.
Brandon Thompson Funeral Home
Update
Sherry Simpson was taken to North Oaks where she had a liver test done yesterday. Kenny Ray, her brother, was not sure where she will be today.
Sunday School Scriptures for Sunday
Lesson: “Protection”
Exodus 22:21-27
Leviticus 19:9-10
Baptist Press
Fires erupt as Mississippi mission team serves Los Angeles.
Today, I exercise my faith and trust in God. I know many hearts are troubled today. Only God can be trusted to help those who face some of the difficulties of life. May He be the One people turn to in their difficulties and trials. May other Christians come out of their struggles even stronger Christians than they already are.
Scriptures to Read Today
Januarty 16
Mark 13-14
Prayer Requests
Please pray for Sherry Simpson. She was admitted to Hood Memorial last weekend and may possibly be moved to Baton Rouge soon.
Pray for the hostages from Israel who have been held so long and who will hopefully be released soon.
Update
Chance is doing okay with his transplants. He is in isolation for a while. As you pray for him, pray for the doctors caring for him and his family as they pray and wait for him to go home again.
Death
Pray for the children, other family members, co-workers, and many friends of Dennis Walker. I’ll post his obituary tomorrow.
The Prayer Link 
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