Johnny F “Red” McIntosh January 17, 1939 – January 8, 2025 Visitation: Kilpatrick Funeral Homes – Farmerville, Wednesday, January 15, 2025, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm Service: Kilpatrick Funeral Homes – Farmerville, Wednesday, January 15, 2025, 1:00 pm Cemetery: Mt. Patrick Cemetery, Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Vallie Ruth Carrico November 3, 1933 – January 8, 2025 Cemetery: Hamilton Cemetery, Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 2:00 pm
Jessie Ford Brown Saturday 06/07/1947 — Monday 01/06/2025 Family Gathering: Friday 01/17/2025 2:00pm to 3:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Visitation: Friday 01/17/2025 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Celebration of Life: Saturday 01/18/2025 11:00am at King’s Funeral Home Interment: Saturday 01/18/2025 Following Service, Fellowship Church Cemetery, Highway 507, Simsboro
Grambling State University (GSU) business graduate Jerald Johnson took a long and challenging road to founding Simplistek, an IT consulting company that offers business process solutions and staff augmentation services to major corporations.
The journey of overcoming obstacles throughout his career paid off for Johnson, and now he’s paying it forward to his alma mater.
Recently, Johnson established a $25,000 endowment — the J.J. Johnson Family Endowed Scholarship — to support Grambling State University’s College of Business financially.
A Houston native, Johnson’s path to Grambling State wasn’t rooted in family tradition but instead shaped by determination, good fortune, and the grace of God.
“I was initially interested in studying computer science because I liked computers in high school,” Johnson said. “Someone at my church recommended Grambling, and my mom’s best friend, who had moved from Houston to a town near Shreveport, also encouraged me to attend GSU.”
Growing up in a modest household, Johnson faced challenges early on.
“It was kind of a tough life,” he said. “I didn’t have a car in high school. My parents had one vehicle, and Houston is very large geographically. The commute from my house to school was at least 30 minutes without traffic by car. However, public transportation, which extended my commute to at least 1 hour, was my main source of transportation during the week.
Taking the bus every day exposed Johnson to stark realities, including seeing homeless people regularly, one of whom left a lasting impression.
“I would see this man almost every day, begging for money,” Johnson said. “It was a reality check. He seemed to be in his 30s or 40s. Seeing him made me reflect on my future. I was determined not to end up in that situation.”
Despite financial challenges, Johnson persevered.
“My parents did the best they could, but I knew I had to pay for college myself,” he said. “I relied on grants, loans, and scholarships. The scholarships covered most of my first year, but after that, it was primarily grants and loans.”
Johnson began his studies at Grambling State in 1991, graduating in 1995. However, as he prepared for the workforce, he realized he had another hurdle to overcome.
“I had poor interviewing skills,” Johnson admitted. “I kept failing to secure internships. Eventually, I did a self-evaluation and realized I needed to clearly distinguish myself from other students. Building confidence was the first big step.”
That newfound confidence helped Johnson land a job at Texas Instruments as a programmer/analyst, specializing in electronic data exchange.
After two years at Texas Instruments, he joined Price Waterhouse, where he was introduced to business consulting, working with major corporations like Compaq, Texaco, Entergy, and Eli Lilly.
At Eli Lilly, he met Peter Li, a person who became a mentor to him and sparked his entrepreneurial aspirations.
“Peter saw my dedication and told me I could succeed on my own,” Johnson said. “But I knew I wasn’t ready. I wanted more experience and stability for my family before taking that leap.”
In 2002, Johnson returned to Houston to work for Reliant Energy. By 2005, he transitioned to independent consulting, making significant progress before Hurricane Ike disrupted his plans during the Fall of 2008.
“I nearly went broke,” he said. “I thought I might go bankrupt. I had been doing well, with revenue close to $700,000, but the hurricane caused me to lose almost everything.”
Johnson relocated to Dallas, taking contract work to make ends meet. A 2012 contract with the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) proved to be a turning point.
“SMUD paved the way for Simplistek,” he said. “It gave me the confidence to build something bigger. Simplistek’s name reflects my focus on simplifying complex business processes for end users through computer-based solutions.”
As Johnson built relationships with companies like CenterPoint Energy, Infosys, and Accenture, Simplistek’s success grew. That success led him back to Grambling, where he joined the College of Business Advisory Board. Inspired by financial principles learned from Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University, Johnson and his wife prioritized giving back.
“On the Advisory Board, we have an annual financial obligation,” Johnson said. “I always try to extend my giving. When (GSU Vice President for University Advancement and Innovation) Brandon A. Logan presented the idea of an endowment, I realized it was a great way to give back and extend this opportunity to my network.”
Johnson’s son is currently a student at Grambling State and set to graduate from the College of Business in the spring.
“My family wanted to ensure that others have the same opportunities I did,” Johnson said. “This endowment is about giving back to Grambling, which gave me so much. That’s what this is all about.”
Throwing it back in style, two Ruston natives and former Kilgore Rangerettes, Heidi Slaughter and Kristen Edwards Weeks, are returning to the stage at the 2025 College Football Playoff Semifinal at the 89th Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic.
They will join 767 former Rangerettes in a dazzling halftime performance, marking the team’s 85th anniversary and 75th consecutive appearance at the iconic event.
The world-famous Kilgore Rangerettes, the Kilgore college dance and drill team, are bringing alumni from 33 states and 275 cities together for this milestone celebration. The performing alumni range in age from their early 20s to an inspiring 93 years old. Among these ladies are Slaughter and Weeks, traveling from Ruston to Arlington, Texas for this once in a lifetime event.
Representing their hometown of Ruston and their alma mater, Cedar Creek, Slaughter and Weeks have dedicated time to learning the choreography for this historic halftime show. Both women are proud to once again don the iconic red, white, and blue Rangerette uniform and reconnect with their former teammates.
Slaughter, a member of the 42nd Rangerette line, served with the team for two years. Her journey began with inspiration during her time on Cedar Creek’s Drill Team, and she recalls many heartfelt memories from her time as a Rangerette. She shared her feelings about reconnecting with her old teammates once again.
“I found out about the Rangerettes when I went to our summer drill camp when I was on the Emerald Drill Team at Cedar Creek. I tried out and I made it. I can honestly say my time as a Rangerette was the best 2 years of my life. I just loved it,” Slaughter said. “I’m looking forward to just seeing old friends because it truly is a sisterhood. My forever sisters. Honestly, I am just also looking forward to performing one last time.”
A member of the 46th Rangerette line, Weeks danced with the team for 2 years from 1985-1987. She fondly remembers her time on the team and looks forward to experiencing one more memorable moment with the ladies.
“I am blessed to be a member of the Kilgore Rangerette Forever organization and honored to be able to perform again with my Rangerette sisters,” Weeks said. “We all share many wonderful memories of our time with the Kilgore Rangerettes and are happy to make another beautiful memory performing in this year’s Cotton Bowl.”
Founded in 1939, the Rangerettes were the first group of their kind, paving the way for many drill and dance teams to be formed across America. They are highly regarded as one of the best dance and drill teams in the world, recruiting only the best dancers for their groups.
For Slaughter and Weeks, the chance to perform again is also a chance to celebrate the friendships and moments that shaped their lives. As longtime members of the Kilgore Rangerette Forever organization, Slaughter and Weeks have supported the legacy of the Rangerettes for years. Now, they’ll sparkle again under the Cotton Bowl lights, proving that once a Rangerette, always a Rangerette.
Following Louisiana Tech’s 67-58 win over New Mexico State last Saturday, former Lady Techster standout Kieunna Walker joined LPJ Co-Publisher Kyle Roberts on the postgame radio show. Here’s the transcript between the two where Kieunna talks about how her professional career is going overseas — and her go-to favorite song for karaoke.
Kyle Roberts: Kieunna, you were such a staple for this program for five years. We are happy to have you here. Let everybody know what’s been going on in the life of one of the best Techsters to come through here in the last ten years.
Kieunna Walker: I’ve been busy still playing basketball. After I graduated, I headed straight to Greece. I loved it — I give it a 10 out of 10.
Roberts: Awesome.
Walker: And I just got back from Turkey, actually, last week. And, it was not nearly as good of an experience. But, you know, you win some and you lose some. I’m hoping that my next contract is better than Turkey. You know, in European basketball, they pay late, and you just have to get used to it.
Roberts: So what has you in town?
Walker: I came back for Christmas, and I have some time, so I figured I’d come down here — I’m staying in Arkansas, so it’s only a three-hour drive. I just wanted to come down and watch.
Roberts: A lot of fans do not know a whole lot about international women’s basketball. What’s going on right now? Are you just waiting on another team?
Walker: So I just played the first half of a season, and I asked (my team in Turkey) to release me. It’s going to be harder finding another contract in the middle of the season, but I’m still looking. I’m hoping to play in the summer — maybe in Mexico or Australia.
Roberts: I’m assuming you’ll be hanging out in Arkansas, so other than working out and staying basketball-ready, what will you be doing in your free time?
Walker: (Laughs) I’ll be working out and doing some karaoke, watch TV, hang out with the family.
Roberts: Last quick questions: What’s the karaoke go-to?
Roberts: It’s so good to see you, and we’re always happy when you make a visit here to Louisiana Tech. You’re welcome on this broadcast anytime you want to hop on.
Walker: And it might be my next job!
Louisiana Tech returns to action tomorrow against Liberty on the road. Tip off is set for 1 p.m. CST.and can be heard on Sports Talk 97.7 FM and watched on ESPN+.
The Lincoln Parish Journal is providing our local schools with an opportunity to submit nuggets from what’s going on at their respective schools in order to get more information out on their students, faculty and staff. The information below comes directly from those schools. Any school wishing to provide content each week can email to flynnhl@warhawks.ulm.edu
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High Schools
Ruston High School
It’s a busy week in Bearcat Nation! Today (1/10), the JV and Varsity girls’ basketball team will take on Sterlington at home at 5:30!
Tomorrow (1/11), the girls and JV boys’ soccer teams will play Grace Christian at home; girls will play at 11, and JV boys at 1!
Monday (1/13), the Freshmen and JV boys’ basketball team will take on Evangel at home at 6!
Also on Monday, both the girls and varsity boys’ soccer teams will travel to play Ouachita; girls play at 5:30, and varsity boys at 7:15!
The teacher of the week is Mrs. McGaha! Mrs. McGaha has been teaching for 14 years, this being her 13th year at RHS. She teaches English IVI. Thank you for all you do Mrs. McGaha!
Cedar Creek
Not one, not two, but all three of Cedar Creek’s Students of the Year have been named 2025 Students of the Year Regional Honorees.
We are so proud of 5th grader Holt Haddox, 8th grader Preslee Prince, and 12th grader James Myers.
Parents of students that are interested in attending Ruston High School for the 2025-26 school year are invited to a Freshman Academy informational meeting on Monday, Jan. 13, at 6 p.m. in the Ruston Junior High School cafeteria.
A second meeting will follow on Thursday, Jan. 23, at 6 p.m., though parents are only asked to attend one of the two meetings.
“These meetings are used to provide parents with as much information as possible about Ruston High School, and specifically, about our freshman academy,” Ruston High principal Dan Gressett said. “We provide everything from important dates, expectations, scheduling information, and much more. We highly encourage parents of eighth grade students to attend.
“Our freshman counselor, Kellye Ratcliff, freshman academy coordinator, Katie Walker, freshman assistant principal, Ryan bond, and I will all be there. We want parents to feel comfortable as their child transitions to a larger environment. This is a great opportunity for parents to get valuable information, ask questions, and just get a feel for what next year will look like for their freshman.”
For more information, Ratcliff can be emailed at kratcliff@lincolnschools.org.
A Ruston man and a Choudrant woman were arrested after they allegedly crashed a stolen vehicle near Louisiana Tech’s farm campus Sunday.
Deontrell Marquis Hunter and Mariah T. Jones, both 30, were arrested near the scene of the crash about 3 a.m. Jan. 5.
Ruston Police responded to a report of a single-vehicle crash in the 1800 block of Tech Farm Road to find the vehicle unoccupied. The vehicle had struck a large brick mailbox and planter. Hunter and Jones were seen walking down the street away from the crash.
An officer attempted to stop Hunter who ignored commands to stop. Hunter eventually stopped and officers detected a strong odor of alcohol on him. Hunter refused to make a statement other than request an attorney.
It was learned the Ford Fusion in the crash had been stolen from Cinnamon Square Apartments on Sage Court from a friend of Mariah Jones.
Hunter and Jones were returned to the scene and Hunter’s cell phone and other items were placed on the hood of a patrol car. When the cell phone received a call, it also rang in the sound system in the stolen vehicle.
Both suspects were booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center. During booking, both were found to have marijuana concealed on their bodies.
Hunter was charged with unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, simple criminal damage to property, failure to report an accident, resisting an officer, no driver’s license, and introduction of contraband into a penal facility. His bail was set at $13,000.
Jones was booked for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and introduction of contraband into a penal facility. Her bail was set at $7,500.
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.
Grambling Police arrested a Ruston man Sunday after investigating an attack on a man with a baseball bat.
Darus Louis Crawford, 44, was arrested after officers found a male victim who had reportedly been struck in the head with a baseball bat at an apartment complex on Wilson Drive in Grambling.
Neighbors identified Crawford as the assailant and he was found inside the victim’s apartment. A large pool of blood was found inside the apartment with broken furniture scattered on the floor.
Crawford said the victim grabbed a bat and attacked him and he defended himself. However, a witness who was inside the apartment during the altercation said the victim told Crawford to leave his apartment and Crawford refused.
According to an officer‘s report, the witness said Crawford yelled profanities at the victim and refused to leave. According to the witness, the victim grabbed a bat which Crawford took away. Crawford beat the victim, striking him in the head multiple times. The witness said the victim never struck Crawford.
The Grambling Fire Department and Ruston Ambulance Service responded and found the victim with a serious head wound. The victim was unable to provide a statement due to his condition. He was transported to the Northern Louisiana Medical Center for treatment.
Crawford was arrested and booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for aggravated second degree battery and remaining on premises after being forbidden. Bail was set at $15,000.
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.
On Thursday, January 9, 2025, at approximately 3:25 p.m., Louisiana State Police Detectives-Monroe Field Office (LSP MFO) were requested by the Madison Parish Sheriff’s Office (MPSO) to investigate a homicide.
Initial findings from the investigation revealed an incident occurred in the 500 block of Byson Road, which resulted in one person being pronounced deceased. LSP MFO will serve as the lead investigating agency, with MPSO assisting. The investigation remains active and ongoing. No further information is available at this time.
Anyone with information and/or pictures and video is urged to share that information with LSP Detectives. The Louisiana State Police online reporting system is available to the public through a convenient, anonymous, and secure reporting form that is submitted to the appropriate investigators. The form can be accessed by visiting lsp.org and clicking the Report Suspicious or Criminal Activity, or call the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.
Mannix is 8 years old, but he still loves to play especially chasing tennis balls!! He will do anything for a milkbone too! Mannix is up to date on vaccines and neutered. He does wonderfully with other dogs!
Please consider giving an older dog a home to spend his remaining years. 4 Paws is open Tuesday-Saturday from 11a-3p, and we also do trial adoptions to approved Adopters to make sure the dog is a perfect fit for your family!
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.
I was reviewing stuff. I found this newspaper article written by Paul Harvey in 1964. I wondered if something over sixty years old would hold water today.
“If I were the prince of darkness, I would want to engulf the whole world in darkness.
I’d have a third of its real estate and four-fifths of its population, but I would not be happy until I had seized the ripest apple on the tree — thee.
So, I would set about however necessary to take over the United States.
I’d subvert the churches first, and I would begin with a campaign of whispers.
With the wisdom of a serpent, I would whisper to you as I whispered to Eve: “Do as you please.”
To the young, I would whisper that the Bible is a myth. I would convince the children that man created God instead of the other way around. I’d confide that what’s bad is good and what’s good is square.
And the old, I would teach to pray after me, “Our Father, which art in Washington …”
Then, I’d get organized; I’d educate authors in how to make lurid literature exciting so that anything else would appear dull and uninteresting.
I’d peddle narcotics to whom I could. I’d sell alcohol to ladies and gentlemen of distinction. I’d tranquilize the rest with pills.
If I were the devil, I’d soon have families at war with themselves, churches at war with themselves and nations at war with themselves until each, in its turn, was consumed.
And with promises of higher ratings, I’d have mesmerizing media fanning the flames.
If I were the devil, I would encourage schools to refine young intellect but neglect to discipline emotions. I’d tell teachers to let those students run wild. And before you knew it, you’d have drug-sniffing dogs and metal detectors at every schoolhouse door.
Within a decade, I’d have prisons overflowing and judges promoting pornography. Soon, I would evict God from the courthouse and the schoolhouse and them from the houses of Congress.
In his own churches, I would substitute psychology for religion and deify science. I’d lure priests and pastors into misusing boys and girls and church money.
If I were the devil, I’d take from those who have and give to those who wanted until I had killed the incentive of the ambitious.
What’ll you bet I couldn’t get whole states to promote gambling as the way to get rich?
I’d convince the young that marriage is old-fashioned, that swinging is more fun and that what you see on television is the way to be.
And thus, I could undress you in public and lure you into bed with diseases for which there are no cures.
In other words, if I were the devil, I’d just keep right on doing what he’s doing.”
We are living the results of Paul Harvey’s prophecy, if you will allow the use of that word. I wonder what he would say to us today. Perhaps, I should wonder what Jesus would say.
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.
Each Monday and Friday, the Lincoln Parish Journal will post a list of non-for-profit upcoming events happening in the parish. If you would like to add your event to this list or advertise your for-profit events, please email us at lpjnewsla@gmail.com.
Saturday, Jan. 11 8:30-11:30 a.m.: Hazardous Waste Material Collection and Recycling (2609 Farmerville St.) 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market 2 p.m.: GSU women’s basketball 4:30 p.m.: GSU men’s basketball 7 p.m.: LA Tech men’s basketball
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.
Al Green scored a season-high 21 points to lead Tech to a win.
Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications
Louisiana Tech opened the game on a 25-4 run and never looked back, claiming its first Conference USA win of the season in an 81-64 victory over FIU on Thursday night inside the Thomas Assembly Center on Karl Malone Court.
After two disappointing losses to start league play, LA Tech (12-4, 1-2 CUSA) led wire-to-wire in its home win over an FIU (7-9, 1-2 CUSA) team who had won five of its last seven games.
“Being at home is different,” said head coach Talvin Hester. “We knew we would get a jolt from that, but we knew we had to get back to playing defense. I felt like that would be the spark for us. It is amazing when you have that energy on the defensive end of the court how the ball goes in more. If we can continue to get our energy from that end, good things will happen.”
The first half was the story. The Bulldogs shot a blistering 70.0 percent from the field, knocking down their first seven three-point attempts in the process. Meanwhile defensively, they limited the Panthers to just 34.6 percent shooting to help build a 50-27 halftime advantage.
Al Green was the offensive spark, draining five straight triples in the first 13 minutes of action. Six straight points by Kaden Cooper, including two alley-oop slams, helped give the ‘Dogs their largest lead of the contest at 42-14 with 5:49 to play in the first stanza.
The second half was much different. The three-pointers were not falling and the offense was not as crisp for LA Tech. On the other end, the Panthers found some success by getting to the paint and the free throw line.
Even so, the outcome was never really in doubt. FIU did go on a late 15-4 run to slice its deficit down to 15 with four minutes to play. However, the Panthers managed just two more points the rest of the way.
Green scored 18 of his season-high 21 points in the first half. Cooper, who also had a big first half with 13 points, ended with 19 to go along with a game-high eight boards. Daniel Batcho was the third Bulldog in double figures with 16 points.
“It was too many threes this past week,” said Hester. “To shoot a three, we need to go inside out. Sean and Jordan were getting into the paint and we got easy kickouts because teams do a good job of protecting the paint. I thought 18 was the perfect amount.”
Doing most of the dishing was Sean Newman Jr. who finished with 13 assists and just two turnovers against the pesky FIU defense. The point guard added four points and four steals as LA Tech shot 58.2 percent from the field, its ninth game shooting over 50 percent.
“I think when you got guys like Al Green and Amaree Abram shooting and Kaden Cooper cutting, and then he has Daniel Batcho, it becomes easy to get an assist if we just do the right things,” said Hester. “If everybody plays together and does the right things, it seems like good things can happen. Thirteen assists and just two turnovers, that is who he is. He is that guy.”
Three Panthers – Jonathan Aybar (15), Jayden Brewer (15), and Travis Gray (11) – scored double-digit points as FIU shot 43.5 percent from the field. The Panthers made the same amount of free throws (20) as they did field goals (20).
(Freshman Paris Bradley scored a career-high 20 points. Photo by Kevin Albarez)
Courtesy of LA Tech Communications
MIAMI — Paris Bradley had a career night, but that was not enough as Louisiana Tech fell to FIU 72-61 on Thursday night in the Ocean Bank Convocation Center.
LA Tech (9-5, 2-1) got off to a fast start with a Jordan Marshall jumper and a Robyn Lee and-1 on their first two possessions of the game. FIU (6-8, 2-1) finally got on the board with a free throw at the eight-minute mark. The Lady Techsters would take an 11-4 lead heading into the first media timeout. The two teams would trade points the remainder of the quarter before a Panther three would make it 20-17 after one.
“We felt like going in to this game it would be a toughness game from the standpoint of keeping them out of the paint in transition or half court and keeping them off the boards,” Lady Techster head coach Brooke Stoehr said. “We didn’t do a good enough job in either of those areas tonight. We got off to a solid start and then struggled to score in the second quarter. We showed some fight and defended much better in the second half and got it to two possessions multiple times but couldn’t take advantage on a couple of possessions to cut it to one.
“It’s conference play on the road and there’s a small margin for error. We have to be able to turn the page quickly and regroup for a deep and talented Liberty team on Saturday.”
The Lady Techsters’ offense went cold in the second quarter and didn’t score for nearly six minutes. The Panthers would take advantage and take a 34-20 lead. Tech would cut the deficit slightly but go into the locker room down 40-29.
The freshmen duo of Bradley and Marshall wouldn’t let the Lady Techsters go down without a fight. The two combined for 25 of Tech’s 32 second-half points, with Lee adding five. Tech cut the lead down to five on three occasions but didn’t get any closer.
The Techsters finished 21-56 for the game, 5-24 from deep, and 14-17 from the charity stripe. Bradley added a team-high six rebounds and three assists. Marshall and Lee were the only other Lady Techsters in double figures at 16 and 10, respectively.
FIU shot 29-53 from the field but just 4-16 from three and 10-15 from the line. Isnelle Natabou had a double-double with 22 points and 10 rebounds. Paris Atkins added 12, followed by Lucia Fleta Robles with 11 and Bineta Diatta with 10.
The Lady Techsters will have a quick turnaround with a trip to Liberty on Saturday. LA Tech and the Lady Flames will tipoff at 1 p.m. CT in Liberty Arena on ESPN+.
Louisiana Tech’s middle blocker Charlize Williams has been named to the Louisiana Sports Writers Association All-Louisiana second team, announced by the organization on Wednesday.
Williams had a record-breaking season in her one year with Tech. The middle blocker tied the school record with 1.24 blocks per set, and her 128 total blocks put her fifth all-time for the Bulldogs. She ranked fourth in Conference USA in both categories 57t,h in the nation for blocks per set, and 85th in total blocks.
On the offensive side of the net, Williams finished with the fourth most kills on the team at 135 on a .225 hitting percentage. She added four assists, two service aces, and 15 digs.
The Maryland Eastern Shore transfer finished with 431 kills and 316 blocks for her career. She would also contribute 12 assists and 43 digs.
Williams is the first Bulldog to earn LSWA All-Louisiana First or Second team honors since McKenzie Johnson earned second team for the 2021 season.
2024 LSWA All-Louisiana Women’s College Volleyball Team
Player of the Year: Jurnee Robinson, LSU Libero of the Year: Mio Yamamoto, Louisiana-Lafayette Newcomer of the Year: Cailin Demps, Louisiana-Lafayette Freshman of the Year: Kamea Uitenham, Xavier Coach of the Year: Jeremy White, Southeastern Louisiana
First Team MB – Amaya Bazemore, Loyola, N.O. MB – Cami Hicks, Louisiana-Lafayette OH – Cicily Hidalgo, Southeastern Louisiana OH – McKenzie Moore, McNeese MB/RS – Taylor Parker, Xavier OH – Jurnee Robinson, LSU Libero – Mio Yamamoto, Louisiana-Lafayette
Second Team MH – India Bennett, Southeastern Louisiana MB – Angelina Lee, LSU OPP – Kyra McKelvey, Southeastern Louisiana OH – Reaghan Thompson, Northwestern State OH – Kamea Uitenham, Xavier MB – Charlize Williams, Louisiana Tech Libero – Bailey Tillman, McNeese
Honorable Mention MB – Deja Benjamin, Northwestern State; OH/OPP – Cailin Demps, Louisiana-Lafayette; L – Simone Moreau, Loyola, N.O.
My name is Billy Ray Davis and this obituary is for my loving wife, J-Nell Davis. I chose to write this obituary in order to show the proper respect for her because those that know me can testify that my personality would make it very difficult for me to speak of her in this setting without embarrassing myself. There are not adequate words to describe the wife, mother, grandmother, and friend she was.
J-Nell was born in El Dorado, Arkansas, on June 21st, 1947, the oldest of three daughters, to Rowdell & Lois Snowden. J-Nell was raised with two sisters, Joyce & Lisa, and was preceded in death by both of them and her parents. J-Nell was raised in Alexandria, LA, where she graduated from Bolton High School. She started Louisiana Tech University in the summer of 1965, where we met on a blind date. To say it was love at first sight would not be truthful, but our feelings for each other grew, and we married on August 19th, 1967, at the Baptist Temple Church in Alexandria, LA. We were married for over 57 years.
Our life together may not have been considered newsworthy, but the 57 years we spent together truly amazed me. Like they say, time really does fly when you’re with the one you love. Not only was J-Nell my wife, she was the mother of our three sons and my business partner. She was truly an extraordinary woman.
This summer she was diagnosed with cancer and was under the care of Premier Hospice, whom the family would like to thank for the care they provided to her. We would also like to extend special thanks to Saundra Huey, who has been her companion these past few months. J-Nell passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday January 7th, 2025, surrounded by her family.
J-Nell is survived by me, her husband, Billy Ray Davis; her sons Chris (Christie), Brian (Beth), Matt (Katelyn); grandchildren Brandon (Katie), Savannah (William), Alexis, Madeline, and Andy. She also has two great-granddaughters, Eden & Emery, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Services will be under the direction of Kilpatrick’s Funeral Home. Visitation will be held on Sunday January 12th from 1:30-2:30, and a memorial service will follow at 3:00 in the chapel at Kilpatrick’s. The service will be led by Dr. Chris Craig, pastor of First Baptist Church Ruston, where J-Nell and I have been members for many years. As per her wishes, she will be cremated and her ashes placed at Mineral Springs Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to J-Nell’s favorite charity since 1986, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or a charity of your choice.
Jessie Ford Brown Saturday 06/07/1947 — Monday 01/06/2025 Family Gathering: Friday 01/17/2025 2:00pm to 3:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Visitation: Friday 01/17/2025 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Celebration of Life: Saturday 01/18/2025 11:00am at King’s Funeral Home Interment: Saturday 01/18/2025 Following Service, Fellowship Church Cemetery, Highway 507, Simsboro
Louise Johnson Wednesday 07/21/1943 — Tuesday 01/07/2025 Memorial Visitation: Saturday 01/11/2025 5:00pm, Abundant Life Church, 150 Guice Road, Winnsboro Celebration of Life: Sunday 01/12/2025 2:00pm, River of Life Church, 126 Ellis Lane, Winnsboro Interment: Sunday 01/12/2025, Morning Star Pleasant Star Cemetery, Fort Necessity
Aubree Thomas Monday 01/19/2015 — Tuesday 01/07/2025 Memorial Visitation: Saturday 01/11/2025 5:00pm, Abundant Life Church, 150 Guice Road, Winnsboro Celebration of Life: Sunday 01/12/2025 2:00pm, River of Life Church, 126 Ellis Lane, Winnsboro Interment: Sunday 01/12/2025, Morning Star Pleasant Star Cemetery, Fort Necessity
Honor Jones Wednesday 10/12/2022 — Tuesday 01/07/2025 Memorial Visitation: Saturday 01/11/2025 5:00pm, Abundant Life Church, 150 Guice Road, Winnsboro Celebration of Life: Sunday 01/12/2025 2:00pm, River of Life Church, 126 Ellis Lane, Winnsboro Interment: Sunday 01/12/2025, Morning Star Pleasant Cemetery, Fort Necessity
Mary J-Nell Davis June 21, 1947 – January 7, 2025 Visitation: Kilpatrick Funeral Homes – Ruston, Sunday, January 12, 2025, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm Service: Kilpatrick Funeral Homes – Ruston, Sunday, January 12, 2025, 3:00 pm
Lacraidrian Jones Monday 02/02/1998 — Tuesday 01/07/2025 Memorial Visitation: Saturday 01/11/2025 5:00pm, Abundant Life Evangelistic Ministry, 150 Guice Road, Winnsboro Celebration of Life: Sunday 01/12/2025 2:00pm, River of Life Church, 127 Ellis Lane, Winnsboro Interment: Sunday 01/12/2025, Morning Star Pleasant Star Cemetery, Fort Necessity
Cedar Creek School has announced its decision to close school on Friday in anticipation of possible winter weather and/or slick road conditions in the morning as overnight temperatures could reach freezing.
Lincoln Parish School superintendent Ricky Durrett said that all parish public schools will move to a virtual day of learning, but that in-person classes have been canceled.
“We’ve been keeping a close watch on the weather, and for everyone’s safety, we’ve decided to close schools on Friday, January 10,” said a statement from the Lincoln Parish School District. “Instead of an in-person day, students will have virtual learning from home. We plan to reopen on Monday, January 13, and look forward to seeing everyone back then. In the meantime, stay safe, stay warm, and thank you for your understanding!”
The schools will resume classes on Monday at the normal time.
Louisiana Tech announced Wednesday that all classes were canceled for today and tomorrow while Grambling State put all classes on-line.
It is a mixed bag of nuts when it comes to the decisions from Lincoln Parish schools on whether to cancel classes or remain open today.
With the forecast calling for possible winter weather in our area today, both the Lincoln Parish Schools and Cedar Creek School announced Wednesday that they would remain operational today … while waiting to make a decision on Friday.
Louisiana Tech University has elected to cancel classes today and Friday while Grambling State University will send classes on-line for the next two days.
The most recent NWS forecast is still uncertain as to what our parish will see in terms of precipitation although they indicated there is more chance of lower temperatures which could mean wintry precipitations. I-20 seems to be the line of demarcation when it comes to winter weather with some models showing our area getting a mix of snow, freezing rain and wintry mix while some models believe it will go further north.
Below are the announcements from Wednesday.
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Lincoln Parish School Announcement (Wednesday at 4 pm)
We have been in discussions with our weather partners for most of the day about the pending weather scenarios for the end of the week. The National Weather Service (NWS) has indicated that this is a very difficult weather system to predict.
Based on the information that we currently have, we expect to be in school on Thursday, January 9 and remain confident at this time that we can get students home safely in the afternoon. With the uncertainty of the evening and night forecast for Thursday, we have elected to postpone all of our after-school and night activities for January 9. We will give an update regarding the school plan for Friday after 4:00 pm tomorrow (January 9). We want to analyze the NWS briefing at 10:30am and speak with our local partners throughout the day tomorrow before we make any decision on a possible closure for Friday, January 10.
Cedar Creek Announcement (Wednesday at 5 pm)
Cedar Creek School will be open for classes tomorrow. All afternoon/evening activities, including after-school care, will be canceled. We are closely watching weather predictions and will move to dismiss school early on Thursday if conditions should worsen. If you feel that your student may be unsafe on the road, please keep him/her home and notify the school for an excused absence. Students may also check out early on Thursday with a note or parent call. A decision about Friday classes will be made tomorrow.
LA Tech Announcement (Wednesday at 4 pm)
Given the winter storm warning and forecast from the National Weather Service, classes will be canceled Thursday and Friday. Even if we do not experience impacts on our campus, beginning at noon tomorrow roadways could become treacherous to our north and west—including roadways traversed by a significant number of our students, faculty, and staff.
The following services will remain available for students:
Tech Table will be open from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.
The Lambright Center will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday.
Essential staff who need to be on campus for work will be notified by their supervisors. The University will provide guidance for essential employees required to work and instructions for recording leave for the weather closure.
Please continue to monitor campus communications through email, social media, and the ERT website at ert.latech.edu
Grambling State Announcement (Wednesday at 10 am)
Despite the temperature, we’re committed to starting the semester strong together. As winter weather approaches, our priority is your safety and well-being. To adapt to the forecasted wintry mix, classes will be held virtually on Thursday, Jan. 9, and Friday, Jan. 10. The Digital Library and Learning Commons will also be closed through Saturday with plans to reopen on Sunday at 3 PM. Stay safe, GramFam!
Courtesy of the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
The Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce today announced the recipients of the three awards it bestows on local community members and businesses during its annual Chamber Awards Banquet.
All honorees will be recognized during this year’s banquet, presented by Forth Insurance, on February 6, 2024, at the Ruston Civic Center.
“Local businesses are the backbone of our community, and we are thrilled to celebrate their achievements at this year’s Chamber Awards,” said Thomas Graham, Chairman of the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber Board of Directors. “Congratulations to all the recipients and thank you for your hard work and dedication to making Ruston-Lincoln Parish a vibrant and prosperous place.”
Russell Woodard Sr. will be the recipient of the Chamber’s most prestigious recognition, the Robert E. Russ Award, which honors individuals for outstanding contributions to the Ruston-Lincoln business community or overall economic development of the area and is named for Ruston’s founder. As leader of the Woodard Law Firm since 1990 and Chairman of the Board of Louisiana National Bank since 1992, he has played a pivotal role in the success of Ruston and Lincoln Parish. His deep passion for service has directly contributed to making the area a desirable place to live, work, and raise a family.
Daniel Taylor will be named the 2024 Young Business Leader of the Year. Taylor currently serves as Chief Accounting Officer and Facilities Director of Argent Financial Group, where he has risen through the ranks over his more than 17-year career, beginning as a staff accountant. In addition to his position at Argent, Taylor is also Board Chairman of United Way of Northeast Louisiana, a business co-owner, active church leader, and a devoted family man.
Ruston Lincoln Convention and Visitors Bureau is the 2024 Business of the Year. The Ruston Lincoln CVB and their team have been selected as a result of their sustained efforts and dedication to transform our community into a vibrant destination. Which has generated substantial economic growth and effectively showcasing the assets of Lincoln Parish, yielding positive outcomes for both the business community and residents.
Several other awardees will be recognized for winning awards from the Chamber’s community partners. These organizations and their honorees will be announced in the coming days.
“Ruston-Lincoln Parish is truly fortunate to have such a dynamic and dedicated business community. My sincere congratulations to all the 2024 award recipients – each one has earned this well-deserved recognition,” said Elizabeth Turnley, Interim President and CEO of the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber. “We anticipate a truly special evening at our annual Chamber Banquet, celebrating the remarkable accomplishments of so many impactful leaders and businesses.”
To learn more about the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, visit rustonlincoln.org.
The 2024-2025 Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) National Security Fellowship program is underway, and the 15 students representing Louisiana Tech University, Grambling State University, and Louisiana State University-Shreveport have worked through part of 2024 getting familiar with their research projects and the airmen who will support their efforts.
The fellows are primarily conducting research, analyzing data, and putting their technical studies into practice, but they are also being exposed to national security issues and airpower history. As the fellows engage with AFGSC, they learn concepts of strategic deterrence and long-range strike capability.
To expand their knowledge, on July 12, Louisiana Tech’s Air Force ROTC Detachment 305 Commander, Lt. Col. James Sprys, provided them with an overview of Rapid Global Mobility. Lt. Col. Sprys is a C-17 Globemaster II pilot and has flown worldwide in support of U.S. and allied operations.
The nation’s airlift, sealift, and rapid surface mobility infrastructure is designed to support both combat and humanitarian relief operations anytime and anywhere. The fellows learned several examples of disaster relief operations at home and abroad.
On July 18, retired Col. Russ Mathers, director of StrikeWerx, provided the fellows with an overview of nuclear history from 1945 to the present. The connections to AFGSC and its associated bomber, intercontinental ballistic missiles, command and control systems, and the dedicated airmen who perform the mission were the focus of the discussion. Aspects of the U.S. Navy’s ballistic missile submarines and command and control platforms were also covered to provide a broad overview of the nation’s strategic nuclear triad.
Fellows also heard from a panel of four veterans who were the first enroute to targets in Iraq during Operation DESERT STORM. Along with retired Col. Mathers, the airmen who flew the mission known as Secret Squirrel included retired Col. Warren Ward, retired Lt. Col. Rick Holt, and former Captain John Romano. They discussed the 35.4-hour non-stop flight to the Middle East and back to Barksdale. The then-top-secret mission was the first time the AGM-86C conventional air-launched cruise missile was used to strike enemy targets.
On August 2, several fellows attended a special ceremony—one rare to civilian eyes—at the Barksdale Global Power Museum. The occasion marked the 30th anniversary reunion for the airmen who flew a 47.2-hour non-stop flight around the world on August 1-3, 1994. The fellows heard from 12 of the 16 men who flew the mission and witnessed a tradition in which airmen toasted their friends who have passed on, including the late retired Brigadier General Peyton Cole. The veterans honored his wife, Kay Cole, who attended in her husband’s place.
As the academic year progresses, the fellows in the National Security Fellowship are diligently advancing their research and analysis projects for AFGSC. Their efforts not only contribute to critical defense initiatives but also provide them with a deeper understanding of national security and airpower dynamics.
Adopting a resolution calling for a special election to be held in the Simsboro school district to authorize renewal of an ad valorem sales tax and granted permission for Lincoln Parish Schools Superintendent Ricky Durrett to advertise for bids to increase security at Ruston High School were a pair of key orders of business during Tuesday’s School Board meeting.
LPSB members Otha Anders, George Mack and Donna Doss were absent from the meeting.
School Board Chief Financial Officer Juanita Duke said the special election to renew or set School Board millage rates happens every 10 years.
The LPSB approved the resolution to hold the special election for the Simsboro school district for May 3 asking voters to renew the current rate of 3.3 mills.
A mill is equal to $1 tax for every $1,000 of net assessed property tax value.
Duke said that renewal would create $247,000 per year to be used for utilities and maintenance for the Simsboro school district.
The LSPB also approved Lincoln Parish Schools Construction Supervisor James Payton’s request to advertise for bids to renovate the front entrance of Ruston High School to increase security for the school that will be funded by the C.O.P.S. (Community Oriented Policing Services) grant the school system has received.
“When you walk in Ruston High School, you’ve got four doors that anyone can walk through and turn left or right down the hall and head to anywhere in the school,” Payton said. “There’s nothing else but some columns in there, so when you walk in those doors and enter the hallway, you can go anywhere you want.
“What this proposes to do is that once the mass of students and staff are inside the building, three of those doors will be locked. One central door will be unlocked but there will be a scanner-type of device that people can walk through and if someone has something they should not have, the front office and security will be alerted. If it’s deemed that someone is safe and belongs there, the office can hit a button that will allow that person to continue inside. But someone won’t be able to just walk in and go anywhere in the school like they can now.”
The LSPB also authorized Payton’s request to advertise for construction of a new classroom building at Choudrant Elementary School as well as for a new steel multi-purpose building at Choudrant High School.
Funding for both of those buildings will come from the property bond approved by Choudrant voters last year.
Duke also presented the LSPB with an annual continuing disclosure report of school bonds, telling the Board the school district has $39,960,000 in aggregate principal amount of general obligation bonds still outstanding.
During his Superintendent’s Report, Durrett said next month’s LPSB meeting will be held at noon Feb. 4.
