The Bossier Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness convened a winter weather warning coordination meeting at 2 p.m. on Jan. 22 at the Bossier Parish Library to finalize operational plans ahead of expected severe winter weather.
The briefing brought together elected officials, first responders, parish public works personnel, and representatives from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development to coordinate response efforts as forecasts indicate the potential for significant ice accumulation across the region.
According to the National Weather Service, more than 0.25 inches of ice is possible, an amount capable of causing hazardous travel conditions and widespread power outages. Meeting participants focused on determining where each agency would deploy crews to keep key roadways open and accessible should conditions deteriorate.
The Bossier Parish Highway Department reported plans to apply salt and brine to parish roads and to work jointly with DOTD to help maintain traffic flow on Interstate 220. DOTD crews assigned to Interstate 20 will oversee winter weather operations along that corridor.
“This level of coordination ensures that every partner knows their assignment and that our response will be unified and efficient,” said Bossier Parish Administrator Dr. Ken Ward. “Ice accumulation of this magnitude can quickly disrupt normal operations, so preparation is essential.”
Topics discussed during the meeting included roadway treatment priorities for parish and state routes, crew staging and resource availability, communication plans related to closures and hazards, and first responder protocols for crashes, stranded motorists, and medical emergencies. Agencies also reviewed potential impacts from widespread power outages and contingency planning.
BOHSEP officials are encouraging residents to closely monitor official weather updates, limit travel during icy conditions, and take steps to protect people, pets, pipes, and plants as temperatures drop.
Additional updates will be issued as the winter weather system approaches and conditions develop.
Caddo Parish Public Works crews began treating roadways Jan. 22 as part of ongoing preparations for anticipated inclement winter weather, parish officials said.
Treatment operations started in the northernmost areas of the parish before progressing back toward the Shreveport base camp and then continuing into southern portions of Caddo Parish. Crews are applying materials to help reduce the risk of icy conditions on roads and bridges as temperatures drop.
According to parish officials, the Public Works Department maintains year-round readiness for severe weather events. In recent days, crews have prepared equipment and supplies, including sand, salt, and brine trucks, and remain ready to deploy plows if snow or ice begins to accumulate.
Monitoring and roadway treatment efforts will continue as weather conditions evolve. Public Works crews are also assisting the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development in maintaining access on major interstates and bridges throughout the parish during the weather event.
Residents are encouraged to use caution when traveling and to stay informed through local updates as conditions change.
Residents of Caddo and Bossier parishes are being urged to prepare for a prolonged period of hazardous winter weather as a Winter Storm Watch remains in effect through Sunday morning.
According to forecasts, both parishes will experience relatively mild but cloudy conditions with patchy fog overnight and during the morning hours.
Conditions are expected to deteriorate significantly on Friday as rain showers become likely and temperatures begin to fall through the day. Northeasterly winds will increase to 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph. By Friday night, rain is expected to transition to freezing rain and sleet as much colder air moves into the region, with overnight lows dropping into the lower 20s.
Saturday is expected to bring the most impactful weather, with freezing rain and sleet continuing throughout the day. Precipitation may be heavy at times during the morning hours, and moderate sleet accumulation is anticipated. Temperatures are expected to remain nearly steady in the mid-20s, creating dangerous conditions for travel and infrastructure.
Freezing rain and sleet are forecast to persist into Saturday night, with a slight chance of snow developing after midnight. Additional moderate accumulation is possible, with overnight lows falling to between 15 and 20 degrees and wind chill values dropping to near 10 degrees.
On Sunday, lingering wintry precipitation is expected during the morning, including freezing rain, sleet, and snow showers, before gradually tapering off in the afternoon. Highs will struggle to reach the upper 20s. Skies are expected to partially clear Sunday night, but bitter cold conditions will remain, with lows near 10 degrees.
Cold but drier weather is forecast to continue into early next week. Monday is expected to be mostly sunny with highs in the lower 30s, followed by clear and cold conditions Monday night. Temperatures will gradually moderate by midweek, with highs returning to the lower 40s by Wednesday.
Forecasters warn that heavy mixed precipitation could result in snow and sleet accumulations of 1 to 3 inches, with isolated areas near and north of Interstate 30 seeing up to 5 inches. Ice accumulations between one-quarter and three-quarters of an inch are expected, with localized areas potentially exceeding one inch.
The anticipated ice accumulation could lead to widespread power outages, tree damage, and extremely dangerous travel conditions. Officials advise residents to closely monitor forecast updates and consider delaying all travel during the storm period. Those who must travel are encouraged to exercise extreme caution and carry emergency supplies in the event of becoming stranded.
The Grand Jury of Caddo Parish returned 10 indictments against seven individuals in its session that concluded on Jan. 21.
Three indictments were for crimes involving slayings, while seven indictments issued under seal were for crimes of a sexual nature or involving minor victims.
Evantavious Deon Williams, 23, of Shreveport, was indicted on a charge of manslaughter in connection with the December 13, 2025 death of Trinity Myles. Ms. Myles, 19, was killed during an alleged domestic violence incident in the 200 block of West 69th Street. The charge was assigned docket No. 413806.
Kamarion Dewayne Young, 17, of Bossier City, was indicted on a charge of second-degree murder in connection with the September 23, 2025 death of Victor Samuels Jr. Mr. Samuels, also 17, was shot in the 8300 block of Harding Avenue. The charge was assigned docket No. 412108.
Eric Wayne Sullivan Jr., 27, of Shreveport, was indicted on a charge of second-degree murder in connection with the September 29, 2025 death of Gerald Washington. Mr. Washington, 55, was shot at the intersection of Egan Street and Gilbert Avenue. The charge was assigned docket No. 412194.
The remaining indictments were issued under seal, due to the nature of the crimes alleged against those indicted and the ages of victims involved.
Keyana Anderson, 22, of Bossier City, also was the subject of two separate indictments. One was for principal to first-degree rape, indecent behavior with juveniles, contributing to the delinquency of juveniles and carnal knowledge of a juvenile. Her second indictment was for illegal use of controlled dangerous substances in the presence of minors and contributing to the delinquency of juveniles.
Drayden Thomas, 19, of Shreveport, was indicted in a charge of first-degree rape.
Daiquan Blackman, 24, of Natchitoches, was the subject of two separate indictments. One was for first-degree rape, indecent behavior with juveniles, contributing to the delinquency of juveniles, trafficking of children for sexual purposes and three counts of pornography involving juveniles. The second indictments was for illegal use of controlled dangerous substances in the presence of minors and contributing to the delinquency of juveniles.
Malina Caldwell, 22, of Shreveport, also was the subject of two separate indictments. One was for principal to first-degree rape, indecent behavior with juveniles, contributing to the delinquency of juveniles, trafficking of children for sexual purposes and carnal knowledge of a juvenile. Her second indictment was for illegal use of controlled dangerous substances in the presence of minors and contributing to the delinquency of juveniles.
Caddo Parish Public Schools has announced its 2025–2026 Support Persons of the Year, honoring three employees whose dedication and service have made a lasting impact across the district.
Recognized this year are Mary Herrington as High School Support Person of the Year, Monique Davenport as Middle School Support Person of the Year, and Regina Knight as Elementary School Support Person of the Year. The honorees were surprised Thursday during on-campus celebrations attended by district leadership, family members and members of the Caddo Parish School Board.
Superintendent Keith Burton said the three recipients exemplify excellence within the district through their commitment to students, families and staff.
Mary Herrington, registrar at Northwood High School, was named High School Support Person of the Year. With more than 25 years of service, Herrington is widely regarded as a cornerstone of the campus. In addition to managing student registration and clerical operations, she supports scheduling, assists teachers, welcomes new families and serves as a key resource for the school’s student information system. Her involvement extends well beyond the school day, including working school events, supporting traditions, volunteering at fundraisers and providing consistent encouragement to students and staff.
Monique Davenport, cafeteria manager at Linear-Northside Middle School, was named Middle School Support Person of the Year. Davenport is known for greeting students by name, maintaining a clean and welcoming cafeteria and building strong relationships with students and families. She has taken on additional responsibilities to support Saturday tutoring programs and regularly participates in family engagement events. School leaders praised her leadership style, hands-on approach and positive presence within the school community.
Regina Knight, an early childhood special education paraprofessional at Riverside Elementary School, was selected as Elementary School Support Person of the Year. Knight provides daily academic and emotional support to students with exceptional needs and frequently volunteers her time beyond regular hours. She leads student clubs, assists with performances, organizes service projects and helps coordinate family engagement activities. Colleagues and administrators cited her teamwork, initiative and commitment to building strong connections between the school and the community.
District officials said the Support Persons of the Year awards highlight the essential role support staff play in creating positive learning environments and strengthening school communities throughout Caddo Parish.
Due to anticipated freezing temperatures this weekend, all park restrooms in Caddo Parish will be closed beginning Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, and water service will be unavailable at picnic shelters and pavilions.
Portable outdoor toilets will be provided at Earl G. Williamson, Eddie D. Jones, Keithville Community Park, Noah Tyson, PBS Pinchback, Richard Fleming, and Robert L. Nance parks. Officials urge visitors to follow closure notices, use park facilities safely, and check http://www.caddoparks.org for updates on re-openings and amenities.
They could have called Mike Krzyzewski, winner of five NCAA basketball championships.
But they didn’t.
They could have checked in with Phil Jackson, a 10-time NBA championship coach.
But they didn’t.
When the second-grade Broncos of the YMCA league were looking for a fill-in coach last Saturday, there was no shortage of options to choose from. But as they say, the best ability is availability and there was one candidate who fit that description.
Me.
Sure, some might say the game has passed me by because it’s been a few decades/years since I patrolled the sidelines of youth basketball. But since none of the Broncos’ parents took the bait, they had to resort to the grandparent level.
As the kids say “Let’s gooooo!”
Oh sure, I could have tossed the ball out there and them handle it on their own – some say that’s all John Wooden ever did – but that’s not how I roll. Especially in a game of this magnitude — a matchup against the other second grade players from the same school.
Understand this — when the Broncos and the Tigers get together, you can throw the record books out the window.
Obviously, a scouting report was the first order of business. Not of the Tigers but for my team. It wasn’t so much about who could be a zone-buster and who was the go-to player in the clutch. It was a lot more basic than that – first names.
(By the way, I had to chuckle over the fact that every boy on Broncos had a first name that could just as easily be their last name. Sign of the times.)
Player rotation is crucial in all levels of basketball and my preparation skills were put to the test before the game even started. It was anybody’s guess as to how many would arrive and, even more importantly, when they would arrive.
It quickly became obvious that my preferred 1-3-1 zone defense was not going to work due to one simple fact: Games at this level are 4-on-4. So, scratch that idea.
As we gathered before the game, there was a definite who’s-the-old-guy vibe from the Broncos but we managed to form the layup line with no issues.
After a few minutes of warmup on the 8-foot goal, it was game time. The good news is that they were all ready to play.
The bad news is that they were all ready to play. All of them. At the same time.
Uh, oh. There’s my first big coaching decision – telling a few to have a seat.
Whether you’ve never coached one game of kid basketball or 100 games, it is crucial to always someone on the floor who can be a go-to guy. If you have two or three of those players and they are on the bench at the same time, that’s going to be a problem.
Laugh all you want about having a rotation plan in second grade basketball, but trust me on this one.
We have come to the part of the column where I am obligated to tell you that yes, I know we are not keeping score and that’s not what the game is all about. Got it. But you should know that my guys on the bench with me asked if we were winning at least every 30 seconds.
“I think so,” was my standard answer and figured that would suffice. But around halftime, I let it slip that I thought we were ahead 8-6 and one of my guys was quick to correct me.
“It’s 4 to 3,” he told me.
That’s when I realized that we were truly were starting from scratch. The idea of trying to explain the whole two-points-for-a-basket concept might take a little too long, especially as we were trying to fend off the pesky Tigers.
No time for a math lesson when we are having a hard time corralling a crucial rebound.
But out of nowhere, one of my guys caught fire in the second half – he made baskets on three straight trips down the court from the exact same spot – and we were able to come away with bragging rights.
Or maybe we didn’t.
After the handshake line was done, I wanted to have a quick moment with the Broncos, but I immediately discovered that wasn’t going to happen.
The arrival of the snacks at midcourt put the kibosh on that.
Krzyzewski may have won 1,202 games, but let’s see him try to overcome that.
ROLLING BY: Mylasia Fulwiley led LSU with 23 points Thursday in a blowout win at Texas A&M. (Photo courtesy LSU Athletics)
By RON HIGGINS, Journal Sports
COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Phases one and three of LSU’s SEC schedule have the Tigers playing eight of 10 games against ranked teams.
Phase two – three league contests against teams with a combined SEC record of 2-14 – started predictably for the nation’s 6th-ranked team here Thursday night.
Suffocating defense, dominating rebounding, unselfish passing and strong bench play led to LSU’s 98-54 SEC road blowout of Texas A&M here in Reed Arena.
The Tigers (18-2 overall, 4-2 SEC) scored 41 points off 23 Aggies’ turnovers, 23 points off 20 offensive rebounds, had 22 assists leading to 36 field goals and scored 47 bench points.
The bulk of the bench boost came from South Carolina junior transfer guard MiLaysia Fulwiley, who had a game-high 23 points along with 4 assists and 5 steals.
In LSU’s 37-point third quarter that included a 22-3 run, Fulwiley had 7 points, 2 steals and 2 assists, extending the Tigers’ 41-22 halftime lead to 78-41 entering the final quarter.
“We’re the team that just gets the ball and runs,” Fulwiley said. “We do great in transition, so we try to get a lot of transition plays.”
The victory was reminiscent of the formula that carried to 14 straight non-conference wins before LSU opened SEC play with losses to then-No. 12 Kentucky and then-No. 11 Vanderbilt.
Since then, the Tigers have ripped off four straight wins over Georgia, then-No. 2 Texas, then-No. 13 Oklahoma and now Texas A&M.
It wasn’t a perfect victory over the Aggies. LSU had 17 turnovers against A&M’s 2-3 zone defense. The Tigers also attempted a season-high 22 3-pointers (making 6), including 17 in the first half.
“That’s not who we are,” LSU head coach Kim Mulkey said. “We’ll shoot it, but you have got to have post touches. If you look at the final stats, we got post touches late.”
The Tigers got points from unlikely sources.
Senior guard Flau’Jae Johnson and junior guard Mikaylah Williams, who rank first and third on the team in scoring, had just 6 and 4 points respectively.
Yet Williams, the former Bossier City Parkway star, had 8 rebounds and a career-high 9 assists. She was largely responsible for freshman Grace Knox’s 19-point performance (7 for 7 field goals), feeding her in the low post.
Notre Dame sophomore transfer forward Katie Koval came off the bench and scored 9 of her 15 points in the fourth quarter.
Starting sophomore starting point guard Jada Richard had 11 points and starting East Carolina transfer forward Amiya Joiner contributed 11 points and 11 rebounds.
LSU hit 20 of 20 free throws, tying the school record set in 1988 vs. Tennessee.
Texas A&M (8-7, 1-6 SEC) was led by Fatmata Janneh, who had 14 points and 6 rebounds.
“We’ve got to make sure we keep air in our balloon when we miss shots we think we should make,” Texas A&M head coach Joni Taylor said. “It deflates us a bit. Instead of turning back and sprinting to get our defense set, we hesitate. They’re (LSU) really elite in transition.”
The Tigers led just 9-8 when Fulwiley entered the game with 4:42 left in the first quarter. She nailed three straight 3-pointers in 92 seconds to start a 12-4 run to close the period with a 21-12 LSU lead.
“She’s going to always give you a spark,” Mulkey said of Fulwiley. “God blessed her with unbelievable speed and quickness. If you are going to be on the floor with her, you’d better be ready to get up and go.”
The Tigers were prepared during the week by associate head coach Bob Starkey. Mulkey left the team following Sunday’s win at Oklahoma to be with her daughter and 7-year-old grandson Kannon. He was hospitalized in Texas following surgery for a ruptured appendix.
“My family comes first, but I never doubted that he would have our team ready to play,” Mulkey said of Starkey. “But who makes it really work are my players. I told them what was going on (after the Oklahoma game), hugged every one of them and told them if things go accordingly, I’ll see them at A&M, and it did.”
The Tigers return home to start a three-game homestand with 7 p.m. games on Monday vs. Florida and Thursday vs. Florida.
Next Sunday’s 11 a.m. home game against No. 23 Alabama begins another run of four ranked opponents in five games.
Included are a rematch at now-No. 4 Texas, home against No. 2 South Carolina and a road date at No. 18 Ole Miss.
The SEC regular-season race got a seismic shock Thursday night when No. 16 Oklahoma snapped a three-game losing streak with a 94-82 home overtime victory over No. 2 South Carolina.
No. 5 Vanderbilt (20-0, 6-0 SEC) and No. 17 Tennessee (14-3, 6-0) lead the league. South Carolina (19-2, 5-1) is a game behind the Commodores and Vols. LSU, Texas (19-2, 4-2) and Ole Miss (17-4, 4-2) are two games off the lead.
Vanderbilt has eight remaining SEC games vs. ranked teams starting at South Carolina on Sunday. Tennessee, Texas and Ole Miss have six league contests left each vs. ranked teams and LSU has five.
“Let’s see what happens down the stretch,” Mulkey said. “Every game is important.”
BIG BAT: Senior Carlos Vega homered among three hits and had three RBI Thursday as LSUS took both ends of its homefield doubleheader to start the season 2-0. (Photo courtesy LSUS Athletics)
JOURNAL SPORTS
With 30 new players, the LSU Shreveport baseball team will develop its own identity this season.
It borrowed from last year’s undefeated NAIA championship squad to sweep a season-opening doubleheader at Pilots Field over Tabor (Kan.), 7-5 and 6-0, Thursday.
Brad Neffendorf’s new edition showed resiliency, run-scoring ability and in the second game, dominant pitching as it claimed a piece of history.
The two victories padded the longest win streak at any level of college baseball to 61 consecutive dubs by LSUS since the start of the 2025 campaign.
Last year’s club wasn’t often challenged but responded in winning fashion each time. Its success was built on a prolific offense and a pitching staff that often handcuffed hitters.
In Thursday’s first game, the Pilots came from behind three times, going ahead to stay in the bottom of the seventh on a solo homer by Nazier Mendez. A sacrifice fly from Spencer Sullivan, his third RBI, padded the edge in the eighth.
Calvin Shepherd, one of a handful of returning players, earned a save by striking out five and keeping the Bluejays off the scoreboard, getting the final six outs. A strikeout got him out of a bases-loaded threat in the eighth, then he set down the side on strikes to end the game.
Four pitchers combined on a two-hitter in the nightcap while Carlos Vega drove in three runs, including a solo homer.
LSUS will hope to play again Tuesday evening at home in an exhibition contest with Centenary. The Pilots have 14 of their first 18 games at home.
ICED OUT: High school sports are idled this weekend, at least, by the winter weather threat that creates travel risks. (Journal photo by GAVEN HAMMOND, landgphoto.com)
JOURNAL SPORTS
Local and area sports teams have their weekend competition altered or halted by the incoming winter storm.
The Shreveport Mudbugs postponed their home series tonight and Saturday against Lone Star until two single games in March.
Public schools in Caddo and Bossier Parishes postponed all sports activities for the weekend, particularly impacting basketball and soccer schedules.
Centenary moved up tip times for its two home basketball doubleheaders today and Saturday. Today’s games will begin with the Ladies meeting Concordia at 4, followed by the Gents at 6. Saturday against Texas Lutheran at the Gold Dome, the women play at 1 followed by the men’s contest at 3.
LSUS basketball was already idle on Saturday. Thursday night in Hawkins, Texas, lowly Jarvis Christian spoiled the unbeaten Red River Conference run by the 15th-ranked LSUS men 79-72, while the LSUS women moved to a perfect 13-0 in the league by rolling 79-26.
The upset loss by the Pilots dropped them to 15-4 overall and 12-1 in the RRAC, while the upstart Bulldogs moved to 9-8, 6-7. The
LSUS teams play Louisiana Christian at home next Thursday. The LSUS men still have a two-game lead in the RRAC race.
Louisiana Tech moved up its men’s home game against Kennesaw State to today at 1 in the Thomas Assembly Center.
Grambling postponed its next two home basketball events, a Saturday SWAC doubleheader against Mississippi Valley and a Monday night men’s outing against UAPB.
Northwestern’s men moved their Saturday home game in Prather Coliseum up to noon, assuming East Texas A&M has no travel problems. The women’s game between the schools has been postponed due to the Lady Lions’ travel plans.
TOP DOG: Power forward Paul Millsap followed a standout career at Louisiana Tech with four All-Star Game appearances in a 16-year NBA career. (Photo courtesy Louisiana Tech Athletics)
JOURNAL SPORTS
RUSTON – Louisiana Tech Athletics announced Thursday that the No. 24 jersey of Hall of Famer Paul Millsap worn during his remarkable college career from 2003-06 will be officially retired during a halftime ceremony on Saturday, Feb. 7, inside the Thomas Assembly Center.
Millsap, one of the most decorated players in Louisiana Tech men’s basketball history, will join an elite group of Bulldog legends – Jackie Moreland, Leon Barmore, and Karl Malone – whose numbers hang forever in the rafters.
Millsap, a Grambling native, became a four-time All-Star Game participant in a 16-season NBA career.
“We are extremely excited to be able to honor the career and success of Paul Millsap,” said Ryan Ivey, vice president and athletics director. “Paul has been the consummate professional and represented Louisiana Tech University with class throughout his career. His name is synonymous with hard work, perseverance, dedication, and grit. Paul’s legacy runs deep within Louisiana Tech University and our community, and this honor is very well earned. We can’t wait to welcome him back to campus and celebrate him.”
A native of nearby Grambling, Millsap electrified Bulldog fans from the moment he stepped on campus. During his three-year career (2003-06), he quickly emerged as one of the nation’s premier players, averaging 18.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks over 92 games for the Bulldogs.
Millsap became the only player in NCAA Division I history to lead the nation in rebounding three consecutive seasons. He earned Western Athletic Conference Freshman of the Year honors in 2003-04 and was three-time All-WAC, three-time NABC All-District, two-time USBWA All-District, and was named honorable mention AP All-America in 2005-06.
“When I came with Louisiana Tech, I came with a dream,” said Millsap. “To compete, to grow, and improve myself every time I stepped on the basketball court. Those moments in the Thomas Assembly Center shaped who I am today, and I am honored to return to Ruston for Legends Day to see my No. 24 jersey retired. Once a Bulldog, always a Bulldog.”
His career totals rank him among Tech’s all-time leaders in scoring (ninth with 1,708 points), rebounding (second with 1,172 boards), and blocks (fourth with 183).
Millsap’s impact on the court was matched by an outstanding professional career, beginning with his selection by the Utah Jazz with the 47th overall pick in the 2006 NBA Draft. He played16 seasons in the NBA, where he was selected four times as an NBA All-Star and became one of the league’s most respected power forwards.
Beginnings are tricky, but here we are—fresh page, blinking cursor, and a head full of questions. I’m Ida B. Torn, a lifelong Southerner from Kenner, Louisiana, who’s spent years working in newsrooms, design studios, and public service. I’ve seen my share of life’s chaos and comedy—and learned that sometimes, folks just need straight answers and a little laughter along the way.
Elbert “Bert” Hill, age 90, of Texarkana, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2026. Born on December 1, 1935, in Vivian, Louisiana, to Ernest Edward Hill and Lois (Ward) Hill, Bert lived a life marked by dedication, service, and family. Bert proudly served his country in the United States Army for two years as a Rifleman in the 1st Armed Rifle Battalion, 46th Infantry Division, holding the rank of RCT E1.
He earned his high school diploma and devoted his working years as a delivery driver for Borden’s, delivering milk to families throughout the community. An old school milkman in the truest sense, he was trusted to enter homes where doors were left unlocked, a testament to the character and reliability he carried with him every day. He took pride in his work and the relationships he built along his route, greeting customers not just as deliveries, but as neighbors and friends, retiring after many faithful years of service.
He was preceded in death by his parent’s Ernest Hill and Lois Hill, his beloved sons, Randy Hill and Ricky Hill, and his brother, Dale Hill. Bert is remembered by his daughter Karen Rampy and her husband Doug, daughter Cindy Anderson and her husband John, brother Gary Wayne Hill, seven grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.
A man of quiet strength and humble character, Bert’s presence will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
The family will gather at a later date in remembrance and extends their gratitude to the staff at Reunion Plaza and Chambers Hospice for their compassionate care.
A funeral service for Francis Marie Curtis will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at Jeane’s Funeral Service in Leesville with Reverend John Lewing officiating. A visitation will be held on Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. until the time of service
Francis was born February 15, 1947, in Many, Louisiana and passed away January 21, 2026, in Alexandria, Louisiana at the age of 78. She lived in Louisiana all of her life mostly in the Hornbeck area but also in Keithville. She worked for a while in role play at Fort Polk and then was the owner of Crinnon’s Corner Restaurant in Hornbeck. Francis enjoyed shopping and tending to her flowers and being outdoors fishing or camping.
Francis was preceded in death by her parents, Jack Robert Spears and Mary Alice Gordon Spears; grandson, Justin Brooks; and sister, Barbara Spears.
Those left to cherish her memory are her son, Robert Brooks of Hornbeck, LA; daughter, Barbara Davis of Hornbeck, LA; grandchildren, Haley Brooks, Austin Brooks, Brooks Bridges (Brandy), and Jacklyn Thompson (D.J.); great-grandchildren, Carter, Averi, John Austin Jr., Braylon, Dawson, Presley, Elisha, Justlynn, Ezekiel, and Roman; brother, Jack Robert Spears Jr. (Kathy) of Dubach, LA; sisters, Charlotte McCain (Danny Patterson) of Keithville, LA and Patricia Johnson of Catawba, SC; and extended family members and friends.
Janice Kay Conner September 29, 1941 — January 21, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 31, 2026, 12pm at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.
Modesto Guillen February 24, 1943 – January 21, 2026 Service: Wednesday, January 28, 2026, 12pm at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, Shreveport.
Dr. Michael “Mickey” Ray Allen, Sr. August 14, 1951 — January 20, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 31, 2026, 2pm at Hana Baptist Church, Shreveport.
Edward Doyle Jackson February 3, 1954 – January 19, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 31, 2026, 2pm at Shane’s Seafood & BBQ, Bossier City.
Constance B. Altdoerffer July 1, 1929 – January 18, 2026 Service: Friday, January 23, 2026, 11:30am at Osborn Funeral Home, Shreveport.
Juanita “Nita” Cawthon September 2, 1926 – January 18, 2026 Service: Monday, January 26, 2026, 1pm at Forest Park Cemetery, Shreveport.
Lucy M. Mayberry December 18, 1955 – January 18, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 11am at Heavenly Gates Funeral Home, Shreveport.
Anita Jane Bickham Phiffer October 6, 1953 – January 16, 2026 Service: Friday, January 23, 2026, 11am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.
Nancy Brazzil Farmer December 10, 1936 – January 15, 2026 Service: Friday, January 23, 2026, 11am at Forest Park East Cemetery, Shreveport.
David E. Losey March 6, 1949 – January 15, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 11am at Rose Park Baptist Church, Shreveport.
Melinda Roberson June 16, 1972 – January 15, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 1pm at New Bethel Baptist Church, Shreveport.
Anna Lee Wheeler March 14, 2011 – January 15, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 31, 2026, 2pm at WK Palmetto Clubhouse, Benton.
Corean Davenport Housley October 17, 1927 — January 13, 2026 Service: Friday, January 23, 2026, 1pm at Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery, Shreveport.
Roderick Daneil Knowles July 4, 1971 – January 13, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 11am at Our Lady Of The Blessed Sacrament Church, Shreveport.
Lilton Greggs, Jr. May 21, 1953 – January 12, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 1pm at Heavenly Gates Funeral Home, Shreveport.
Aaron Banks March 3, 1950 – January 11, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 31, 2026, 1pm at St. Paul United Methodist Church, Shreveport.
Jason Lamar Turnage April 21, 1977 — January 11, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 11am at Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Shreveport.
Alonzo Warren February 20, 1972 – January 10, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 11am at Mount Olive Baptist Church, Greenwood.
Rosa Mae Milton May 23, 1922 – January 9, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 2pm at Morning Star Baptist Church, Shreveport.
Yusef Ahmed-Lasana August 26, 1949 – January 8, 2026 Service: Wednesday, January 28, 2026, 12:30 p.m. at NWLA Veterans Cemetery, Keithville.
First Lieutenant Kayla Graham July 11, 2000 – January 8, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 11am at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, Shreveport.
Harry Rivera December 14, 1972 – January 7, 2026 Service: Friday, January 23, 2026, 1pm at Good Samaritan Funeral Home, Shreveport.
Margaret Ann Billson November 23, 1941 – January 5, 2026 Service: Saturday, February 7, 2026, 1pm at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.
John Richard Craig July 7, 1948 – January 4, 2026 Service: Friday, January 23, 2026, 9am at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, Shreveport.
Reginald Van Dudley April 19, 1965 – January 4, 2026 Service: Friday, January 23, 2026, 1pm at Stoner Hill Baptist Church, Shreveport.
Willie Clearance Jackson, Jr. December 24, 1945 – January 2, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 12pm at Bilberry Park & Recreation, Shreveport.
Jarvus N. Bounds December 11, 1941 – December 31, 2025 Service: Saturday, February 7, 2026, 12pm at Kingston Road Baptist Church, Shreveport.
Roland H. Turner, Jr. September 10, 1957 – December 31, 2025 Service: Saturday, January 24, 2026,
Davina DeSapio June 29, 1967 – December 29, 2025 Service: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 2pm at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, Shreveport.
Lindsay Clare Goodman April 23, 1985 – December 29, 2025 Service: Open Door Bible Church, Bossier City.
Charles “Eddie” Edwin Cannatella March 12, 1954 – December 24, 2025 Service: Saturday, January 31, 2026, 10am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, Shreveport.
Eloise Bullock Gibson March 25, 1941 – December 17, 2025 Service: Saturday, January 31, 2026, 11am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Shreveport.
The Shreveport-Bossier Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or SBJNewsLa@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Death shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to SBJNewsLa@gmail.com.)
Five volunteers officially joined the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Posse after successfully completing a five-day training course at the Viking Substation. Sheriff Julian Whittington welcomed the new members and emphasized the importance of the Posse and the vital role it plays in supporting deputies and serving the community.
Participants received hands-on training in driving evaluations, funeral escort procedures, accident response, traffic direction, communications and radio procedures, crime scene preservation, officer safety and much more.
Sheriff Whittington said, “Volunteers are becoming harder to come by, and we are extremely proud of the men and women who choose to serve on the Sheriff’s Posse. They selflessly give their time to help keep our parish safe, and their commitment makes a real difference in our community.”
Founded in 1995, the Bossier Sheriff’s Posse is made up of dedicated men and women volunteers who assist with patrol and community service responsibilities, allowing deputies to focus on critical law enforcement duties.
Interested in joining the Bossier Sheriff’s Posse? Contact Lt. Mason (Viking Substation) at (318) 747-8600.
The Rotary Club of Shreveport welcomed guest speaker Royal Alexander during its Jan. 20 meeting, where members heard firsthand about the responsibilities and challenges facing public defenders within the local legal system.
Alexander, a Shreveport native, is a licensed attorney and serves as section chief at the Caddo Public Defender’s Office. During his presentation, he offered insight into the daily processes of public defense work, highlighting the complexities of representing clients while upholding the principles of justice and the right to a fair trial.
Club members discussed the importance of ethical service in the legal profession and the role public defenders play in ensuring equal access to justice. Alexander’s remarks emphasized the dedication required of attorneys working in public service and reinforced the impact their work has on individuals and the broader community.
The Rotary Club of Shreveport regularly hosts speakers from a variety of professional and civic backgrounds as part of its mission to promote service, leadership, and community engagement.
Community members interested in learning more about the Rotary Club of Shreveport are invited to attend “Together Thursday” on Thursday, Jan. 22, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Silver Star Youree. Membership is not required. Questions may be directed to shreveportrotary@gmail.com.
NEW CREW: LSUS pitcher Virot Siharath is one of 30 new Pilots this season. (Photo by KYLIE RICHTER, LSUS Media Relations)
JOURNAL SPORTS
It’s a day earlier than planned but today carries twice as much opportunity for the reigning national champion LSU Shreveport baseball team – and the Pilots’ opponent, Tabor College.
The teams, originally slated for a season-opening three-game series beginning Friday evening, will square off only today, in a 3 p.m. doubleheader at Pilot Field.
LSUS brings its college baseball record 59-game winning streak into the contests. That carries over from last season, when the Pilots became the first team in college baseball history at any level to finish an undefeated season. They captured the Avista NAIA Baseball World Series championship.
Tabor (31-18 in 2025) gets two chances to halt the historic streak. The Bluejays gave the Pilots as tough a test as anyone last season. LSUS needed three ninth-inning runs to secure an 8-7 walk-off win in February for a 10-0 start.
The approaching winter weather accelerated the season opener by a day. Wednesday, the teams agreed to play just a doubleheader today and not a single game Friday afternoon. That will give Tabor the chance for an overnight trip home to Hillsboro, Kansas, before weather is likely to be a problem for the team’s travel on Friday.
LSUS will play again Tuesday at home in a crosstown exhibition game against Centenary.
SOPHOMORE STAR: Will Achee broke two Northwestern State indoor track records at the Corky Classic this past weekend. (File photo by ETHAN LOWE, Samford Athletics)
JOURNAL SPORTS
NATCHITOCHES—The beginning of his sophomore track season at Northwestern State could not have gone much better for former Parkway High star Will Achee.
Two indoor school record times from the Bossier City native earned him the Southland Conference Male Track Athlete of the Week, the league announced Wednesday.
On the opening day at the Corky Classic in Lubbock, Texas, this past weekend, clocked a 46.84 in the 400-meter dash. Achee won his heat and placed fifth overall in the event, running in a stacked field at Texas Tech.
He came back on day two and was a part of another school record. This time, it was in the men’s 4×400 relay.
The quartet of Achee, Desmond Duncan, Kason Jones and Elijah Rowe ran a 3:08.13 to smash the previous indoor record of 3:09.05, set last season.
Both marks lead the Southland performance rankings by a good amount,
In the 400, Achee leads his teammate Duncan by nearly a full second, while the 4×400 relay leads second place Lamar by nearly 10 full seconds.
It is a major step up for Achee, as he ran a 48.52 in the 2025 Corky Classic and was part of a 3:12.78 in the 4×400 relay.
The accounting major earned Academic All-Southland honors in his first year at NSU.
Running for the Panthers in 2024 as a senior, Achee was second at the state meet in the 400-meter dash (47.19) and sixth as part of Parkway’s 4×400 relay. He broke the school record in the 400 and was part of a record time in the 4×4.
Achee and his Northwestern teammates next travel to Kansas for the Pittsburg State Invitational on Jan. 31 in the second indoor meet of the season.
ADVANTAGE CAVS: Drew Cooper, one of 12 freshmen on the 15-player Bossier Parish Community College roster, wins a jump ball in a recent game at Billy Montgomery Gym. (Photo courtesy BPCC)
JOURNAL SPORTS
Bossier Parish Community College basketball coach Jeff Moore has faith in his 12 freshmen even as they absorb some tough lessons in Region XIV play.
Wednesday night at the Billy Montgomery Gym, the Cavaliers built an 11-point first-half lead but faltered late. Kilgore CC broke away from a tie down the stretch, outscoring BPCC 17-7 to claim a 72-62 road win.
“We started the game strong with energy and moved the ball really well, leading to us getting an 11-point lead early and going into the half up five,” said Moore. “In the second half Kilgore turned up their defense which led to turnovers and they dominated the offensive glass.”
Mazin Lumori scored 20. The sophomore from the Sudan, a 6-4 guard, sank 6 of 10 on 3-pointers. Freshman Zaquan Lewis added 19 points for the Cavaliers (8-9, 2-7) who dropped their seventh straight.
“We are close to getting over the hump. Our players play extremely hard and I love coaching them,” said Moore. “In this league it is on to the next one with the right mindset. There are no nights off in Region XIV.”
Actually, BPCC had one last Saturday. Their scheduled visit to Blinn CC was postponed after one of the Blinn rims was broken by a dunk in a Friday practice by the home team. That game will get played later.
The Cavs will likely avoid the incoming weather for their Saturday game, which is at Coastal Bend College in Beeville, Texas, just north of Corpus Christi.
BPCC is home again next Wednesday against Tyler JC.
Graveside services for Ronald “Ronnie” Wayne Mitchell, age 79, will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at Forest Park West Cemetery on Meriwether Road. Officiating will be David Birdwell. Visitation will be held Thursday from 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Auld’s Funeral Home, prior to the graveside service.
Ronald Wayne Mitchell was born on November 16, 1946, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to Milton E. Mitchell and Dorothy Laborde Mitchell, and he passed away on January 15, 2026. He was a graduate of Woodlawn High School, Class of 1964. Ronnie began his working career with M. L. Bath Company, later worked for Arkla Gas Company, and concluded the final seventeen years of his career working in security at Sam’s Town Casino.
Ronnie lived life with a deep appreciation for simple joys and meaningful moments. He loved taking annual trips to the beach with his family, hunting, fishing, dancing at VFW Post 4588, and spending time at the casinos. He was known for his easygoing nature, his love of fun, and the way he made those around him feel welcome and valued.
He was preceded in death by his father, Milton E. Mitchell; his mother, Dorothy Mitchell; and his brother, William Earl Mitchell.
Left to cherish his memory are his devoted partner, Rita Johnson; his son, Ronnie Saucier; his daughters, Michelle Pittman, Christy Grantham (Rusty), and Tonya Vicknair (Toby); seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and numerous extended family members and friends who will forever hold him close in their hearts.
Ronnie’s legacy lives on in the memories shared, the traditions passed down, and the love that will continue to surround his family.
Pallbearers will be Rusty Grantham, Toby Vicknair, Peyton Grantham, Preston Grantham, Kevin Kidwell, and Jason Hightower. Ronald Kidwell will serve as honorary pallbearer.
The family would like to express a special thank you to the Bossier City Fire Department, Station 4, and the Willis-Knighton Pierremont Emergency Room staff for the compassionate care that was given.
