A Ruston woman fought officers who attempted to arrest her after they were called to the scene of a disturbance.
Yolanda Y. Torbor, 40, was arrested on several charges after police found her in the front yard of a Jones Street residence yelling at another woman several houses away. According to an officer’s report, Jones was acting erratically and appeared to be under the influence of narcotics.
When Torbor began yelling profanity, officers attempted to arrest her, but she physically resisted. Torbor allegedly pulled away from an officer, breaking free of the officer’s grasp, and striking the officer in the head. She had to be taken to the ground to be handcuffed.
After Torbor was medically evaluated at the Northern Louisiana Medical Center, she was taken to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center and booked for disturbing the peace, battery of a police officer, and resisting an officer. Her bail amount was set at $2,500.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
After stellar performances in two victories for Louisiana Tech, Sean Newman Jr. was voted Conference USA Player of the Week in an announcement made by the league office Monday.
Newman Jr. averaged 16.0 points, 14.5 assists, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game as the point guard led LA Tech to a pair of home wins over Grand Canyon and Rust College this past week.
The Los Angeles, California native poured in a career-high 25 points to go along with nine assists as the Bulldogs downed WAC preseason favorite GCU, 74-66. With the ‘Dogs up one and three minutes to go, Newman Jr. scored seven of the team’s last nine points (and assisted on the other 2-pointer) as LA Tech closed the game on a 9-2 run to defeat the Lopes in the CUSA/WAC Challenge.
One of the top assist men in the country turned around five days later and set a LA Tech and CUSA single-game assists record with 20 dimes in the 108-60 victory over the Bearcats. Newman Jr. currently ranks first in the country in total assists this season with 128 for an average of 9.8 dimes per game.
This is the first CUSA weekly honor for the redshirt junior. He is the third Bulldog this season to earn a weekly honor, joining Daniel Batcho and AJ Bates.
Newman Jr. and the Bulldogs return to action Thursday, Jan. 2 when they travel to take on UTEP in the CUSA opener. Tipoff is set for 8 p.m. CT and will be broadcast on ESPN+.
Paris Bradley earned Conference USA Freshman of the Week after her performance against Central Baptist, which was announced by the league on Monday.
Bradley had a career day helping the Lady Techsters score 112 points, tied for the 18th most in program history. The 5-9 guard scored a career-high 17 points and had five assists, leading to 12 more points for LA Tech. She would also add three steals for a new career best.
Bradley shot 63.6 percent from the field and 50 percent from long range. The Carrollton, Texas, native scored double figures in four consecutive games.
Louisiana Tech returns to the court on December 30 against LSU Alexandria to close out the non-conference portion of the schedule. Tipoff is set for 6:30 p.m. CT in the Thomas Assembly Center, and the game will be streamed on ESPN+.
Services for Willie “Billy” James will be held on Saturday, December 28, 2024 at 2:00pm, at Rose Neath Funeral Home in Arcadia, LA. Visitation will be held at 12:00pm until time of service. Interment will follow service at Hurricane Cemetery.
Billy was born on April 12, 1936, to Willie and Mary Jordan James. He was born and grew up in the Mt. Mariah Community in Claiborne Parish. Billy was a 1956 graduate of Athens High School. He was dedicated to his career with Louisiana Power & Light Co (now Entergy), where he started in 1958 and retired in 1995. Billy enjoyed fishing, working with his cattle, and was an avid hunter. He was a member of First Methodist Church in Arcadia, LA.
Billy was married to Jackie, the love of his life, for 68 years. He was father to their two boys and Paw Paw to four grandchildren.
Billy was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Arthur “Preacher” James and Hubie “Dick” James; Three sisters, Florence Yarbrough, Lillie Garner and Norvis Burton.
He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline “Jackie” James,; Two sons, Billy Michael James (Marla), and Maxwell Heath James (Holly); Grandchildren, Colby Falkner James (Tess), Brady Logan James (Malina), Ava Elizabeth James and Leah Caroline James; One sister, Edna James Gantt. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to say a special thanks to Magnolia Home Health and Premier Hospice for their loving care.
Lillian Cottingham Thursday 07/24/1924 — Wednesday 12/18/2024 Age: 100 Visitation: Friday 12/27/2024 3:00pm to 5:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Funeral Service: Friday 12/27/2024 5:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Private Burial
David “West” Vaughan June 29, 1973 – December 20, 2024 Visitation: Kilpatrick Funeral Homes – Monroe, Sunday, December 29, 2024, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm Service: Kilpatrick Funeral Homes – Monroe, Sunday, December 29, 2024, 2:00 pm
Ruby Kelly Sunday 08/07/1949 — Saturday 12/21/2024 Visitation: Friday 12/27/2024 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Funeral Service: Saturday 12/28/2024 11:00am, New Rocky Valley Baptist Church, 2155 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Grambling Interment: Saturday 12/28/2024 Following Service, Grambling Memorial Garden, Highway 80 West, Grambling
Nathaniel Burks Sunday 06/10/1962 — Saturday 12/21/2024 Age: 62 Visitation: Friday 12/27/2024 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Funeral Service: Saturday 12/28/2024 11:00am, Zion Traveler Baptist Church, 1201 Martin Luther King Drive, Ruston Interment: Saturday 12/28/2024 Following Service, Grambling Memorial Garden, Highway 80 West, Grambling
Nancy Gale Monk December 30, 1944 – December 22, 2024 Visitation: Thursday, December 26, 2024, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, First Baptist Church of Bernice, 502 Cherry St., Bernice Funeral Service: Friday, December 27, 2024, 10:00 AM, First Baptist Church of Bernice, 502 Cherry St., Bernice Cemetery Committal: Friday, December 27, 2024, Pisgah Cemetery, Pisgah Ch. Rd., Bernice
As the year draws to a close, Ruston Parks and Recreation and Ruston Sports Complex are incredibly thankful to have served so many people from all over the country and right here in the Ruston community. With over 500,000 visitors coming into our complex this year, we thought we would reflect on what a memorable year it has been—and what exciting opportunities await us in 2025!
When we look back at our complex’s year, we are filled with gratitude for the chance to host a multitude of unique events and welcome such an array of visitors, fans, and athletes. Beyond our weekend ball tournaments that draw in crowds from near and far, our state-of-the-art facility has provided a central location for hosting an impressive variety of community gatherings including trade shows, indoor circuses, Veterans Day assembly, Ruston High volleyball and softball, and special events for local schools and universities, just to name a few! The diversity of events truly highlights our complex’s versatility and ability to bring people together, and we’re proud to see the positive impact it has on our community.
Additionally, Ruston Parks and Recreation (RPAR) experienced remarkable growth in 2024 as well by drawing over 6,000 participants across its programs and events. New initiatives like the Youth Summer Softball Camp, Adult Soccer Leagues, Fall Break Youth Pickleball Camp, Senior Adult Fitness Program, and the inaugural Peach Fest Pickleball Tournament appealed to various ages and interests. Alongside these fresh offerings, park enhancements such as splash pads in Mayfield, Duncan, and Cook parks further improved community resources. RPAR has also maintained its popular core programs, including volleyball, basketball, cheerleading, and football, which continue to attract strong participation.
As 2024 comes to a close, we’re incredibly grateful for a community who made this year unforgettable and goal-oriented. It has truly been one of our greatest years of growth with even more on the horizon. We want to thank you for your support, and are looking forward to an even brighter 2025.
Looking to 2025, our mission is the same, to take an active role in the community of Ruston by welcoming residents and visitors of all ages by providing and promoting health and well being through recreation, educational events, and team sports.
We can’t wait to see you at the complex!
Socials
Facebook: Instagram: Ruston Sports Complex @therustonsportscomplex Ruston Parks and Recreation @rustonrpar
In order for our staff to spend time with friends and family during the holidays, we will not publish December 25 or January 1. We hope you enjoy your holiday as you are able with your loved ones as well.
The Lincoln Parish Journal will proudly resume publishing on Thursday, December 26, at 6:55 a.m.
Make sure to get your news at 6:55 a.m. Monday through Friday by subscribing for FREE by clicking HERE. All LPJ articles are free and always will be free!
In May 2023, Troopers with the Louisiana State Police – Gaming Enforcement Division (LSP-GED) received a complaint regarding contraband smuggling into multiple Louisiana Department of Corrections (DOC) facilities, including Elayn Hunt Correctional Center (EHCC).
Upon receiving the complaint, LSP with the assistance of Department of Public Safety and Corrections launched an extensive investigation, uncovering a large-scale illegal sports gambling operation led by 48-year-old Broderick Scott from Addis, a DOC inmate. Evidence revealed that Scott operated the scheme from within the correctional facility, utilizing contraband smuggled into the facility to facilitate and sustain his activities. Troopers identified over 30,000 transactions linked to the operation.
As a result of the investigation, an arrest warrant was issued for Scott. On December 18, 2024, he was booked into the Iberville Parish Jail on charges of LRS 14:90 – Gambling (felony) and LRS 14:405 – Unlawful establishment of accounts on Internet-based social networking websites by inmates (misdemeanor).
The Louisiana State Police remains committed to collaborating with state and local partners to maintain the integrity and security of Louisiana’s correctional facilities. Illegal activities within these facilities will be thoroughly investigated, and offenders will be held accountable. The public plays a vital role in supporting these efforts, as illegal activity puts everyone at risk.
DOC reminds the public that it is illegal to use third-party vendors or apps such as “Cash App” to send money to inmates. There is no legitimate reason for an incarcerated individual to request that their family and friends place money on an app for purchases made while they are incarcerated. Often times, friends and family members are convinced to send money through these methods while being led to believe that this money is going to be used for the purchase of commissary items. In actuality, the transfers of money are used to support illegal activity, for instance to purchase drugs and/or contraband items or have them smuggled into prison. The only legal way to send money to an offender is through JPay or the approved methods listed on the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections website.
Suspicious or criminal activity connected to contraband smuggling or other illegal operations can be reported anonymously. Visit lsp.organd use the “Report Suspicious Activity” link, or call the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007 to provide information.
D’Tavion Wright and fellow teammate Cenario Wilson earned LSWA Class A all-state honors. (Photo by Scott Boatright)
by Staff Reports
Lincoln Prep saw two representatives on the Louisiana Sports Writers Association Class A all-state team.
Cenario Wilson and D’Tavion Wright both earned honorable mention all-state honors for the Panthers after helping guide Lincoln Prep to the Select School Division IV playoffs.
Lincoln Prep was 7-3 during the regular season and earned the No. 19 seed before falling to No. 14 seed Central Catholic 14-0 in the first round.
Wilson and Wright were both members of the All-Lincoln Parish Journal gridiron team this year.
Covenant Christian Academy’s Jesse Turner was the Class A Coach of the Year. Vermilion Catholic’s Jonathan Dartez was the Outstanding Offensive Player while Kentwood’s La’Mikal Callahan was the Outstanding Defensive Player.
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LSWA Class A All-State Team
OFFENSE
Pos player school ht wt cl
WR Nehemiah Philip Riverside Academy 6-0 192 Sr.
WR Jermaine Brown Kentwood 6-0 180 Jr.
TE Allen McLain Vermilion Catholic 6-0 190 Sr.
OL Ayden Bullock Riverside Academy 6-2 270 Jr.
OL Kabren Thomas Covenant Christian Academy 6-1 260 Jr.
OL Jackson Trahan Vermilion Catholic 6-2 255 Sr.
OL Gregory Green Jeanerette 6-2, 265, So.
OL Dakota Davis Haynesville 5-11 230 Sr.
QB Jonathan Dartez Vermilion Catholic 5-8 170 Sr.
RB Harlem Berry St. Martin’s Episcopal 5-11 188 Sr.
RB Dedric Lastie Riverside Academy 5-4 165 Sr.
RB Chad Elzy Jr. Ascension Catholic 5-10 205 Sr.
PK Cooper Helmke St. Martin’s Episcopal 6-3 180 Sr.
ATH Owen Trosclair Covenant Christian Academy 5-10 160 Jr.
DEFENSE
DL Ahmad Cage Riverside Academy 5-9 250 So.
DL Javonte Williams Jeanerette 6-2 240 Jr.
DL La’Mikal Callahan Kentwood 6-0 225 Sr.
DL Germerian Williams Haynesville 5-11 230 Sr.
LB Cole Parrino St. Frederick 5-11 210 Sr.
LB Mace Melancon Ascension Catholic 5-10 200 Sr.
LB Keizavion Woods Haynesville 6-3 215 Sr.
LB Hunter Martin Logansport 5-9 165 Jr
DB Damarion Berry General Trass 5-10 175 Jr.
DB Owen O’Neal St. Frederick 5-9 170 Jr.
DB Luke McLain Vermilion Catholic 6-0 180 Jr.
DB Isaiah Washington Haynesville 6-1 170 Jr.
P Eli Bray Haynesville 6-1 200 Jr.
KR Javon Vital Hamilton Christian 5-10 185 So.
ATH Trevoris Norman Southern Lab 5-7 180 Sr.
OUTSTANDING OFFENSIVE PLAYER: Jonathan Dartez, Vermilion Catholic
’Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads;
And mamma in her kerchief, and I in my cap,
Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap,
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below,
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer,
With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.
More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name:
“Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!
On, Comet! on, Cupid! on, Donder and Blitzen!
To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!
Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!”
As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,
When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky;
So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,
With the sleigh full of Toys, and St. Nicholas too.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As I drew in my head, and was turning around,
Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,
And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot;
A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back,
And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.
His eyes–how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow;
The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,
And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath;
He had a broad face and a little round belly,
That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly.
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,
And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself;
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,
Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread;
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk,
And laying his finger aside of his nose,
And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose;
He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,
And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.
But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight,
“Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night.”
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
An 18-year-old Ruston man was arrested for domestic abuse after police responded to a incident in southwest Ruston.
Thaddeus Jones Jr. was arrested for domestic abuse battery by strangulation and simple battery on December 18.
Jones told police he was making fun of his brother because of his reading ability. Jones said this made his mother angry and he and the mother argued. When the brother attempted to intervene, Jones punched him in the face and then choked him while pushing him to the ground.
Jones admitted he punched and choked his mother with both hands, according to an officer’s report.
The mother told police she was unsure how many times she was punched by Jones but that she did not lose consciousness but felt dizzy.
The brother said he tried to protect his mother after Jones began choking her but Jones started punching him in the head.
Jones was arrested and booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center. His bail amount was set at $21,000.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
Football season is over! It’s been a fun few months of Friday night lights and road trips and celebrating these athletes on and off the field.
So now what? Well friends….I have a suggestion. While Ruston High School has a special football program full of special student athletes, they also have lots of other sports and teams and groups doing amazing things and those kids would love your support!
The whole school is full of special kids working hard every day to excel and make the world a better place. Athletes in every sport dedicate so much time to their teams to represent Ruston well. Groups of students help serve in the cafeterias and at events in the elementary schools. RHS students volunteer with Med Camps and Buddy Ball.
These kids pour into our community in such meaningful ways, wouldn’t it be great if we could return the favor?
The Ruston High School facebook page does an excellent job of posting about upcoming sports and events as well as highlighting all the amazing things students are accomplishing every day.
It’s currently soccer and basketball season, so get your family and friends and go catch some more Bearcats in action!
Courtesy of the GSU Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta
World AIDS Day, designated on December 1st, is an international day dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic.
The International Awareness and Involvement Committee of Grambling Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated presented their observance program of World AIDS Day on the campus of Grambling State University on Monday, December 2nd. The observance program themed “Put People First” emphasized advancing progress towards the shared goal of ending AIDS by 2030 and thinking of solutions from the point of view of those most affected.
Dr. Martin Ayim, well known author of “Communicable Diseases for School and Community Health Promotion: Global Health Prospective” and GSU professor, presented an in-depth presentation and discussion on the presence of HIV still being a major health issue.
Dr. Ayim made the presentation to an auditorium of community and chapter members, students and student organizations such as the Delta Iota Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, and the International Student Organization.
Chapter member Patrice Outley also presented the availability of community resources.
A red ribbon pin was received representing the iconic red ribbon as a symbol of support and solidarity for anyone who has been affected by HIV and AIDS.
A lighted candle also remained lit throughout the program representing the opportunity to honor those who dedicated their lives to helping people living with and affected by HIV and who continue to mobilize our communities in solidarity.
Members of our congregation are taking the 31 days of December to read the 31 chapters of Proverbs. It’s a simple, laudable concept, and I accepted the idea willingly – but, alas, I’ve fallen behind.
I know. It’s not that hard a program to follow, and I’m peeved with myself, but …
I’ve worked out a new plan, and by Dec. 31, I should have, indeed, read all 31 chapters.
The thing is, though, just reading through all these verses isn’t cementing the ideas into my brain – unless it’s one of the verses that most of us have heard all our lives. Like, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6). Or, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1).
It’s just that there are so many good thoughts, one after the other, that soon sensory overload looms on the horizon. I’ve taken to reading the verses out loud – and I’m really enjoying that – and now the meaning seems to more actively engage with my brain.
So that has led me to another plan. January has 31 days, too, and I’m planning to re-read Proverbs, one chapter a day – this time with the aid of a good commentary. I think I’ll come out on the other side a wiser woman. I mean, who wouldn’t become more astute after reading such a collection of wise sayings, plus good advice for daily living? Twice in two months.
I’d like to invite you on this journey with me in January. It would bring me joy to know that some of my readers are looking at the exact same scripture each day as I am. Also, as the minister at my congregation said, we will probably see truths from what we read mirrored in our lives as we go forward into the near future. Maybe I’ll write another column to report whatever transpires in that realm.
Meanwhile, here are a couple of things about Proverbs that I have discovered since beginning my readings. The first few chapters don’t follow the form of the rest of the book. Most of Proverbs is a collection of short, two-lined sayings, many times with the second line contrasting with, explaining or amplifying the first. Not the first few chapters, however. These are written more in prose style, concentrating on wisdom with many warnings against adultery. I was surprised by this.
Yes, confession time: I have never read Proverbs in its entirely in my entire life. I haven’t read all of the Psalms either. And I want to.
So … I have another idea. Starting in February, I’m planning to read one psalm a day, and in exactly five months – on June 30 – I will have read the entire book. You’re invited to join me in this pursuit as well.
Meanwhile, let’s close with some of the proverbs that remain closest to my heart after my recent rediscovering of them. You probably know and love them, too.
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” – Proverbs 4:23.
“Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up” – Proverbs 12:25.
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity” – Proverbs 17:17.
“Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues” – Proverbs 17:28.
“Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding” – Proverbs 3:13.
As I continue this pathway through Proverbs and beyond, I hope you’ll join me in embracing the wisdom these verses offer. In the New Year, let’s search for the insight that speaks to our hearts and leads us toward lives of greater understanding and peace.
After all, as Proverbs 2:6 says, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” May we all seek and find those treasures in the days ahead.
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Sallie Rose Hollis lives in Ruston and retired from Louisiana Tech as an associate professor of journalism and the assistant director of the News Bureau. She can be contacted at sallierose@mail.com.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
Louisiana Tech’s Zach Zimos was one of nine student-athletes that received the Conference USA Fall Spirit of Service Award, announced by the league office Friday.
The award honors student-athletes with significant community service endeavors, good academic standing, and participation in their respective sport.
Zimos, a starting linebacker for the Bulldogs, led the team in total tackles with 74 including 6.0 tackles-for-loss and five quarterback hurries. The Honorable Mention All-Conference USA selection started 11 of the 12 games for LA Tech, recording double-digit tackles in three games including a season-high 14 versus Tulsa.
The Sugar Land, Texas native graduated with his Master of Business Administration this past summer with a 3.50 cumulative GPA. Last year, he was a CUSA Commissioner’s Honor Roll recipient and CUSA Academic Medalist.
Zimos has also logged several hours of community services including projects with Habitat for Humanity, Boys and Girls Club, Hometown Heroes visits, Dogs with a Cause, and elementary drop-off visits.
The Spirit of Service Award is presented three times through the season with Friday’s honor representing the fall sports (football, soccer, volleyball, and men’s and women’s cross country). Recipients are nominated by their institutions.
Nancy Gale Monk, born December 30, 1944, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on December 22, 2024. Born and raised in Saline, Louisiana, Nancy grew up cherishing small-town life. She attended Northwestern State University and then went to work for the Bienville Parish School Board where she retired after many years of service.
In 1990, Nancy married the love of her life, George Monk. They made their home in Bernice, Louisiana and their 35-year union was filled with dancing, traveling and a deep devotion to their blended family. A woman of faith, Nancy attended First Baptist Church of Bernice, where her Christian values were evident in the way she loved and cared for others.
Nancy’s life was defined by her fierce love for her family. She found immense joy in spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She cherished life’s simple pleasures – whether it was savoring her favorite Coke Icee or a Sonic Blended Float to snagging bargain items so her kids and grandkids could “shop her stash”- and embraced every moment with warmth and grace.
Nancy is preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Kristina Sullivan; grandson, Joshua Roberts; great-granddaughter, Kinley Sanders; sisters Peggy Wise and Laura Collinsworth; her parents, Lonnie and Dossie Cheatwood, and her late husband Ronald Sullivan Sr.
She is survived by her devoted husband, George Monk; her children, Ronigale Davis, Ronald Sullivan Jr. (Karen), Bradley Scott Sullivan, Melony Jones (Michael), Georgette Monk, Matthew Monk (Tonya); her siblings, Vicki Cheatwood, Lonnette Golden, and Lonnie Cheatwood (Donna); 19 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren, and countless nieces and nephews who will carry forward her legacy of love and kindness.
Nancy’s life was a testament to the power of family, faith, and unconditional love. She will be dearly missed but forever remembered in the hearts of all who knew her.
A celebration of her life will be held at First Baptist Church of Bernice at 10:00 AM, Friday, December 27, 2024 with Rev. Larry Carr and Rev. Michael McIntosh officiating. Interment will follow in Pisgah Cemetery in Bernice under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston. Visitation will be Thursday, December 26th, 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the church
Pallbearers for Mrs. Nancy’s service are Michael Wise, Michael Jones, Kevin Crawford, Clyde Morrow, Joey Brazeel and Barry Sullivan. Honorary Pallbearers will be her grandsons: Bradley Sullivan, Dakota Davis, Wesley Sullivan, Ronald Sullivan, Garth Sullivan, Kyle Sullivan, James Roberts, London Ishee, and Walker Perez.
Terrilyn Susan Griffin passed away on December 18, 2024, at the age of 68, at Northern Louisiana Medical Center in Ruston, LA, following a long battle with multiple illnesses. Terrilyn was born on April 5, 1956 in Alexandria, LA to Anita and James Griffin.
Terri will be remembered for her love and compassion for her family as well as her tremendous love and compassion for animals. She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Anita Griffin, brother Wayne Griffin, and sister Dianne Griffin, in a realm where love and joy will forever flourish.
Left to cherish her memory are her beloved niece, Susan Mobley (Nick), and great-nieces and nephews Callie Morgan (Chase), Cole Yelverton, Blaine, Broox, and Brant Mobley, and two great-great-nieces, Cameron and Carlee Morgan. She is also survived by lifelong friend Charlotte, special friends Jimmy Robinson and Sondra Marshall, and her faithful fur baby, Sissy Girl, of 18 1/2 years.
A private service will be held at a later date for close family and friends.
In lieu of flowers the family ask to please make a donation to help with funeral expenses.
Congratulations to all the men and women at the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office who earned awards this year.
These were handed out Wednesday night during the LPSO Christmas party.
“We’re are extremely proud of this years outstanding service and deputy of the year award recipients,” said LPSO Deputy Chief Landon Hunt. “These deputies have gone above and beyond in their duties and service to our citizens, and they exemplify what it means to put others first daily.”
The Lincoln Parish Journal salutes these men and women for their bravery, hard work and dedication to our parish and its residents.
Outstanding Service Awards (Supervisor Nominated)
Division: Deputy Award Winner
Juvenile: Will Sullivan
CID: Jacob McHenry
Patrol: Jacob Grant
Dispatch: Nicky Barnette
Narcotics: Tyler Edmiston
LPDC Security: Alex Redmond
LPDC Admin: Tracey McNeil
Civil: Dennis Penuell
Criminal Admin: James Colvin
Stats – Civil Paper: Stephen Quinnelly
Stats – Criminal Paper: Sarah Campbell
Stats – DWI Arrests: James Ayers
Stat – Drug Arrests: Dereck Johnston
Deputy of the Year (Peer Nominated)
Juvenile (tie): Mark Denton, Edward Faile, Mitch Jenkins
On Saturday, December 21, 2024, shortly after 5:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash on U.S. Highway 165 near Crestview Drive. The crash claimed the life of 65-year-old James Doles of Bastrop.
The initial investigation revealed that a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by Doles, was traveling north on U.S. Highway 165. For reasons still under investigation, the Chevrolet traveled off the left side of the road and overturned.
Doles, who was unrestrained, was ejected and succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Troopers would like to remind motorists that buckling up is the most effective way to protect yourself during a vehicle crash. Failure to take a few seconds to buckle up can have devastating consequences. Louisiana law requires every person in a vehicle, regardless of seating position, to be properly restrained day and night.
See schedule below for trash pickup schedule for the week of Christmas.Residents that have trash pickup scheduled on Tuesday, Dec. 24, will have their trash hauled off on Thursday, Dec. 26. There will be no chance to residents outside of the city limits.
