A celebration of life for Edward Doyle Jackson, 71, will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. at Shane’s Seafood and BBQ, 4726 E. Texas St., Bossier City, Louisiana.
Edward was born on February 3, 1954, to Cordelle and Kathryn Jackson in Shreveport, Louisiana, and went to be with his Lord and Savior at home, surrounded by his family, on Monday, January 19, 2026, in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Edward was a dedicated and hardworking man who spent his life serving others. He proudly served with the Shreveport Police Department from 1983 to 2003, followed by six years with the DeSoto Parish Police Department. Outside of law enforcement, he poured his energy into several local businesses and community passions, including owning Specialty Welding, the TAP Pool League, and Rack 2 Rack. His work ethic, commitment, and presence were well known to those who crossed his path.
He loved his family deeply and found his greatest joy in time spent with them. Edward was an avid duck hunter and a talented pool player, known for his steady aim, competitive spirit, and the friendships he built along the way. Whether in the woods at daybreak or gathered around a pool table, he brought warmth, loyalty, and a quiet strength that will be remembered always.
Edward joined his parents, Cordelle and Kathryn Jackson, and his sister, Bobby Gilmer in heaven. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Joyce Jackson; children, Jeff Jackson and wife, Allison of Shreveport, LA, Matt Jackson and wife, Jeanette of Aledo, TX, Shantel Cook of Shreveport, LA, Robert Rowell of Choctaw, OK, and bonus children, Shane Rodgers and wife, Megan of Bossier City, LA; grandchildren, John, Paul, Luke, Emma, Derrick, Tyler, Kate, Jesse, and Joey; along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and extended family members and dear friends.
The family would like to express special thanks to the Willis Knighton North nurses and doctors, as well as the Willis Knighton Home Health and hospice staff, for all the care and compassion given throughout these last few months.
Edward Doyle Jackson February 3, 1954 – January 19, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 31, 2026, 2pm at Shane’s Seafood & BBQ, Bossier City.
Louis S. Kelly December 22, 1933 – January 19, 2026 Service: Thursday, January 22, 2026, 10am at Centuries Memorial Park, Shreveport.
Sherman Dale Munds November 16, 1936 – January 19, 2026 Service: Thursday, January 22, 2026, 2pm at Forest Park West Cemetery, Shreveport.
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.
Brett Jacob Guillory August 17, 1980 – January 16, 2026 Service: Thursday, January 22, 2026, 2pm at Rose-Neath Funeral Home Southside, Shreveport.
Anita Jane Bickham Phiffer October 6, 1953 – January 16, 2026 Service: Friday, January 23, 2026, 11am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.
Dewayne Pierce August 9, 1964 – January 16, 2026 Service: Thursday, January 22, 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.
Ronald “Ronnie” Wayne Mitchell November 16, 1946 – January 15, 2026 Service: Thursday, January 22, 2026, 1pm at Forest Park West Cemetery, 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.
Meeda Tomme Harrison June 15, 1936 – January 13, 2026 Service: Thursday, January 22, 2026, 11am at University Church of Christ, Shreveport.
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.)
The Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office is mourning the loss of Deputy Tim Jordan, who died following a work-related incident.
At approximately 8 a.m. on Jan. 21, Deputy Jordan, a four-year veteran of the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office, was struck by a train while working a traffic assignment. Preliminary information indicates the deputy may have misjudged the proximity of his vehicle to the train tracks.
Deputy Jordan was transported to Ochsner LSU Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Sheriff Julian Whittington said the loss has deeply impacted the agency, noting Deputy Jordan’s dedication to public service and his commitment to protecting the citizens of Bossier Parish. The sheriff’s office described the day as an extremely difficult one for Deputy Jordan’s family, fellow deputies, and the broader community.
The Louisiana State Police are leading the investigation into the incident.
The Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office asked the public to keep Deputy Jordan’s family, friends, and coworkers in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Additional information is expected to be released as it becomes available.
(EDITOR’S NOTE – This month we are revisiting some of Teddy Allen’s best columns. Here’s one from almost exactly four years ago, Jan. 26, 2022.)
“And the answer is: What do you call a person who has no chance of correctly answering more than three questions, tops, on any single episode of Jeopardy!?”
“What is a Jeopardy! Deadbeat?”
“Correct! The judges would have also taken ‘What is Most any Normal Person?’”
No one is in jeopardy of me beating them on Jeopardy!, four decades old and the most-watched TV game show of all-time. The questions — or answers, if you prefer — are cast-iron tough. Harder than an acre of ash.
There is every reason to watch Jeopardy! and one big reason not to. What I hear most is, “It makes me feel stupid.” Legit response. Makes me feel more stupid. I passed feeling stupid a long time ago.
But … to those using that excuse, we offer this:
Consider an attitude adjustment. I know going in I’m not the most mature apple on the tree, so when I watch, it’s with low expectations. Extremely low. Barrel-bottom low. Again, me and millions of other stupid people have made it the most popular game show ever.
That anyone can ever actually win a match, even one, is what makes the current goings-on all that more confounding. The show’s reigning champ isn’t just beating people, she’s destroying them. Sherman through Georgia. She’s the game show equivalent of football’s 1970’s Pittsburgh Steelers.
A historic champ is Amy Schneider, a 41-year-old engineering manager from Oakland, Calif., who after Monday’s just-another-day-at-the-office rout had won 39 consecutive matches and moved into second place all-time and all by her lonesome.
She’d also pocketed $1,319,800. Hello.
She’s still way behind all-time champ Ken Jennings and his 74 straight wins. If she were chasing Joe DiMaggio’s 56-game hit streak, she’d be around 30. Lot of pitchers left to face.
That said, Schneider’s got game. Monday alone, she answered questions from the categories of, among others, Government Agencies, Bodies of Water, The Crusades, Rhythm & Blues, Roman Life & Culture — quite the varied array.
As usual, she won by $10,000 — and that was after losing $25,000 in Final Jeopardy. LOST 25 large and still won by 10.
Some of Monday’s answers/questions, with the correct response in parentheses. Good luck:
“Moses’ mom put him in an ark made of this plant?” Me: “Reeds!” (Bulrush.) Dang! I KNEW I had that one …
“The mission of BLM, short for this, is ‘to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the public lands.’” Me:
“What is the Big Land Machine?” (Bureau of Land Management)
“Croatia’s border rivers, the Sava & Drava, are both tributaries of this one.” Me: “Uh ….” (The Gulf of Sidra)
“Pope Eugenius III launched the Second Crusade in 1145 with ‘Quantum Praedecessores,’ one of these
documents named for its seal.” Me: “No WAY there was a whole other Crusade after the first one. No livin’ WAY!” (The Papal Bull.)
My guess would have been The Mama Bull. So close…
The show airs 4:30 weekdays on ABC. Sometimes I’ll record it and, if I’ve had a good day, I’ll watch maybe 10 minutes, just to be humbled, just to remind myself that while a contestant is winning on Jeopardy! each weekday, I barely know the difference between the Gulf of Sidra and the Gulf gas station down on the corner.
Always felt I had a fightin’-man’s chance back in the day with Match Game. The Price is Right. Even Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. But Jeopardy! is a different animal. It’s always the windshield; I’m always the bug.
A prolonged stretch of cold, wet, and potentially dangerous winter weather is expected to impact Caddo and Bossier parishes later this week, with freezing rain, sleet, and snow forecast to develop by Friday night and intensify through the weekend.
Conditions will deteriorate beginning Wednesday, when widespread showers are expected across the region. Rain chances are near 100 percent, with daytime highs reaching the mid-50s. Showers may linger into Wednesday night, followed by mostly cloudy conditions on Thursday with only a slight chance of rain.
Temperatures will begin to trend downward on Friday as clouds and scattered showers persist. Highs are expected to reach only the upper 40s. More hazardous conditions are forecast to develop Friday night as temperatures fall into the lower 20s. Rain is expected to transition into freezing rain, with a slight chance of sleet. Precipitation chances Friday night are near 90 percent.
Saturday is expected to bring the most significant winter weather impacts. Forecasts call for freezing rain during the morning hours, followed by sleet and a slight chance of snow showers during the afternoon. Precipitation may be heavy at times, with moderate snow accumulation possible. Daytime highs are expected to remain in the upper 20s, increasing the risk of icy roads and hazardous travel conditions.
Cold and unsettled weather will continue into Saturday night, with lingering chances of freezing rain, sleet, and snow and overnight lows falling between 15 and 20 degrees. By Sunday, conditions are expected to slowly improve, though a slight chance of freezing rain remains during the morning. Afternoon highs are forecast to reach the lower 30s, with wind chill values dipping as low as 10 degrees during the morning hours.
Clearer but very cold conditions are expected Sunday night, with lows between 10 and 15 degrees. Monday is forecast to remain cold but dry, with partly cloudy skies and highs in the upper 30s.
Residents in both Caddo and Bossier parishes are encouraged to monitor weather updates closely and begin preparing now for potential travel disruptions, power outages, and dangerously cold temperatures as winter weather moves into the region.
Officer Trevion Morris and Officer Garyn Simons of the Bossier City SWAT Team were honored this week for their bravery during a domestic violence call in which both officers were shot while responding.
The officers’ quick action, courage, and dedication to protecting the community were recognized by Chief Daniel Haugen, who presented them with the Medal of Valor.
“In the face of danger, these officers acted with calm professionalism and an unwavering commitment to saving lives,” Chief Haugen said.
The Bossier City Police Department encourages the community to join in thanking Officers Morris and Simons for their service and heroism.
MILLION MILE SMILE: Minden native Lou Dunbar (standing, center) has traveled the world as a focal figure with the Harlem Globetrotters for over 50 years, bringing fun to fans as he did Tuesday night in Bossier City at Brookshire Grocery Arena. (Journal photo by KEVIN PICKENS)
By NICO VAN THYN, Journal Sports
The globetrotting man from Minden is making news … again.
Louis Dunbar, or as he has been known to the world of basketball for more than five decades, “Sweet Lou” Dunbar.
This is the 100th-year anniversary of the Harlem Globetrotters — who were in Bossier City on Tuesday night, beating their always hapless opponent — and the February issue of Sports Illustrated honors the occasion with a story titled, “Still Hot to Trot.”
The featured Globetrotter — as he has been for about half of their existence — is Sweet Lou Dunbar, who remains a legendary star.
The story by SI senior writer L. Jon Wertheim — who also is a regular television correspondent for CBS’s 60 Minutes — includes a three-page question-and-answer with Dunbar.
When Wertheim lists “familiar faces” with the ‘Trotters, he writes, “None more than Lou Dunbar. ‘Sweet Lou’ was a hell of a player in his day, a 6’9” forward named Mr. Basketball in his home state of Louisiana. He then played for the University of Houston shortly after the Elvin Hayes era, averaging more than 22 points a game. He was a fourth-round pick by the Sixers in the 1975 NBA draft, but when he wasn’t given enough minutes for his liking in NBA training camps, he decided to join Meadowlark Lemon, Geese Ausby, Curly Neal, et al., on the Globetrotters. He’d not only have more fun, he’d make more money.
“Marrying his basketball skills with an irrepressible smile, Dunbar would become a fixture for 27 seasons, one of only eight Globetrotters to have his jersey retired. (He’s also done turns on The Love Boat and Family Feud.)
“Almost a half century later, he’s still a front-facing figure. At age 72, he is currently the director of personnel and a coach of one of the teams, which sometimes includes overseeing his son, Lou Dunbar Jr., d/b/a Sweet Lou II, who wears his father’s No. 41 jersey.”
In this story, Wertheim asks Sweet Lou, “Where are we catching you?” The answer: London. Lately, though, the answer would be back in Louisiana as the Globetrotters makedd the rounds here.
But, of course, he’s been all over the world. He notes, deep into the Q-and-A, that he’s been to about 95 countries. But he’s still on the move, still traveling, although his home base has been Houston for decades.
It’s a long road from Minden, where he first drew notice as a high school star at old Webster High in the late 1960s/early 1970s. As he said to Wertheim, “I wasn’t bad.”
Put together a short list of the greatest male basketball talent from across North Louisiana, and Dunbar has to be on it.
In the Minden days is where his rivalry — but a very friendly one — began with Robert Parish. They were born 22 days apart in August 1953 (Dunbar is older) — and as players they were only three inches apart, Parish a 7-footer.
They faced each other in seven games, first in the all-black high school organization (LIALO) — Webster vs. Union High — and then in college — Houston vs. Centenary.
And while Parish is a Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer, Dunbar also has many Hall of Fame honors, including the Globetrotters’ Hall and the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame (Class of 2020).
Dunbar for many years was the Globetrotters’ “clown prince,” the main source of entertainment on (and often off) the floor.
As John James Marshall wrote in a 1992 Shreveport Times story, “the one thing that Dunbar has always had is the personality. That smile. That chatter.”
“It was probably meant for me,” Dunbar said then of his ‘Trotters’ role. “Performing has always come natural.”
In the current Sports Illustrated story, Sweet Lou provides a history of the Globetrotters and discusses the foundation of what keeps them popular.
“… We’ve got the lights, we’ve got the glitter, and we still got the tradition running,” he said. “We’re still good, clean, wholesome entertainment, and that’s what kept us around 100 years.”
THE RACE IS ON: Captain Shreve freshman Bailey Mandigo (white jersey) races Airline’s Esther Cer in the Lady Gators’ 2-0 win. (Photo by KEN HARRIS)
By DAVID ERSOFF, Journal Sports
Byrd’s Lady Jackets have firmly established themselves as the top team in Shreveport-Bossier by defeating the other two top teams.
Byrd dethroned Benton atop this week’s girls coaches’ poll. The Lady Jackets won 3-1 in a head-to-head showdown with the Lady Tigers last Tuesday, then outlasted Loyola 1-0 last Thursday.
Benton slipped to No. 2 in the Shreveport-Bossier Journal coaches’ rankings, and Loyola stands third.
In a very noteworthy and seemingly inevitable accomplishment, Tuesday night Caddo Magnet’s Isabella Baltov broke the school and parish career scoring record as she netted five goals in the Lady Mustangs’ 8-0 win over Northwood. The new record is 162 and counting. The state record is held by 2004 Parkway graduate Rachel Alexander, who scored 242 goals in her four-year high school career. Parkway retired her jersey number after she graduated.
Byrd’s only goal in the hard-fought win against Loyola came 16 minutes into the first half. Maggie Wilhite played to Sally McKenzie who was able to cross the ball to a waiting Mia Romero. It took this much precision to break through the Loyola defense and avoid a scoreless outcome.
Byrd head coach Lisa Levermann appreciated the excellent competition. “Peyton [Lewis, their goalie] and their defense are hard to score against. It was a good game to help us prep for the playoffs.”
The Lady Jackets took care of business Tuesday night against Haughton, winning 9-1.
Byrd hopes to travel to Lafayette this weekend, weather permitting, to face Dominican and Mt. Carmel at St. Thomas More High School. This is a yearly tradition for the Lady Jackets to gear up for postseason.
After Benton’s loss to Byrd last week, the Lady Tigers took the rest of last week off to recover and prepare for Tuesday night’s district battle against Captain Shreve.
The Lady Tigers were able to rebound and topped the Lady Gators 3-1. They got goals from Baleigh Ware, Eden Whiteman and Eryn Flowers. Whiteman and Emerie Tanner were each credited with an assist. Shreve’s goal was scored by Ava Bogan.
Benton will host Bossier Parish rival Parkway on Friday, weather permitting.
Loyola was able to shake off the tight loss to Byrd when they defeated North DeSoto 7-0 Monday. The Lady Flyers face Parkway tonight at Messmer Stadium.
They are also scheduled to travel to Lafayette this weekend, hoping to meet Teurlings Catholic and Acadiana Renaissance Charter.
Captain Shreve had a strong week before running into Benton Tuesday night. The Lady Gators played five games, posting all shutouts, netting four wins and a tie. They beat Airline 2-0 last Tuesday, then played Texas teams over the weekend, beating Corrigan-Camden 6-0, Lufkin Hudson 4-0 and East Champers 5-0 before a scoreless tie with Brenham.
The Lady Gators host Magnet on Thursday before hopefully welcoming another team from Texas, Faith Family Academy, on Saturday if weather allows it.
The Week 10 SBJ girls’ soccer poll, listing school (the W-L-T record) points (then first place votes):
By PATRICK MEEHAN, Centenary Athletics Assistant AD/Communications
Kane was more than able Tuesday night for the Centenary basketball team
Freshman Kane Broussard made a Gents’ program record 10 3-point baskets as he scored 34 points and led the Gents to a 94-64 blowout victory over the Howard Payne Yellow Jackets on Tuesday night in a non-conference contest inside the Gold Dome.
Broussard, from Iowa in southwest Louisiana, finished with a season-high point total as he made 10 of 15 from beyond the arc. He was 12-18 from the floor in 39 minutes and his 12 made shots were also a season high.
The previous program record for made 3’s in a game was nine by A.J. Hall on Jan. 12, 2022 against Southwestern in the Gold Dome. Broussard’s 10 treys are the most by a SCAC player in a game this season.
The Gents (4-11) led 56-17 at halftime over the Yellow Jackets (11-8) as they notched their first home win of the season and evened the season series after losing 103-82 in Brownwood, Texas on Dec. 12. Centenary’s victory on Tuesday was its largest of the season and largest since a 97-64 home win over the University of Dallas on Jan. 20, 2024, exactly two years ago.
Centenary tied its season high in points which was previously accomplished in a 94-89 win at McMurry on Jan. 9 in Abilene, Texas. The Gents made a season-best 17 treys on Tuesday, the most in a game since hitting 22 in a 105-69 win over Southwestern on Jan. 12, 2022 – as Hall made those nine treys.
Centenary will return to action versus Concordia in league play at the Gold Dome on Friday at 5:30 and hopes to host Texas Lutheran Saturday at 4.
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL: The Ladies fell 77-40 to Howard Payne on Tuesday inside the Gold Dome.
The Ladies (2-13) lost their eighth game in a row while the Yellow Jackets (9-10) won their third in a row. Tuesday marked the second meeting between the teams this season after the Yellow Jackets beat the Ladies 85-40 in Brownwood, Texas on Dec. 12.
Centenary, 0-5 at home, will host Concordia in Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference play on Friday at 7:30, then is slated to play Texas Lutheran in the Gold Dome at 6 Saturday night.
SWIMMING: The men’s and women’s teams completed their home schedule on Saturday in a conference double dual meet against Austin College and St. Thomas.
The Ladies tallied six individual wins and two men’s swimmers, Daniel Lewis and Ubaldo Ayala were honored on Senior Day inside the Centenary Fitness Center. The Ladies defeated Austin College 90-57 and St. Thomas 103-63 while the Gents were defeated by Austin 114-65 and UST 143-40.
Junior Reece Esser was named the SCAC Women’s Swimmer of the Week on Tuesday as she tallied three individual wins – in the 50 free (25.76), 100 fly (1:02.40), and 100 back (1:05.89).
GYMNASTICS: The Ladies wrapped up a busy weekend in the Midwest on Sunday with a second-place finish against Illinois State in Normal, Ill.
The Ladies finished with a 185.575 team score while the Redbirds posted a winning score of 193.700. Centenary earned a team score of 185.700 to finish third in the 2026 Windy City Invite on Friday night in Chicago.
The Ladies’ best event score on Sunday was a 47.375 on floor, followed by a season-high 46.950 on vault, a 45.775 on beam, and a season-best 45.475 on bars.
Sophomore Anna Ichiba highlighted the meet for the Ladies on Sunday as she won on beam with a season and career-high 9.80. She is this week’s recipient of the Midwest Independent Conference “Performance of the Week”.
Next up for the Ladies is a meet at Greenville University slated for Saturday.
Nothing has shaken the bass fishing world more than forward-facing sonar (FFS). While I’ve given my perspective on this technology and how it’s affected the bass tournament world, I’m now wondering what’s next? Understand, this is my perspective, as I have no inside knowledge from anyone.
One thing that we know for sure, the big three fishing electronic companies (Garmin, Humminbird and Lowrance) are not going to stop building a better mouse trap. Their engineers are paid to be innovative and are aways looking to make improvements and advancements with regards to their technology.
Today’s sonar units are crazy good! You can literally see the swimming action of the tail on a bass. No fish is safe anymore and no fish can hide from today’s electronics.
One thing that is probably coming next will be the ability to identify the fish you’re seeing on the screen without guessing. Is that a bass, crappie or a carp? Knowledgeable anglers can do that today if they’re really good with their electronics and if they have studied and understand fish behavior.
But I think these companies are going to figure out a way to tell you exactly what species of fish you are seeing on your screen. They are going to continue to simplify the visual aspect of what you’re seeing on the screen.
Next, get ready for live video! This already exists with a company called Aqua-Vu. (It’s just not allowed in tournaments.) These have been out for a few years and to let everyone in on a little secret: several bass touring pros already use this unit for scouting, but don’t want the public to know.
Look for new camera units from one of the big three electronic companies, probably in association with “Go Pro Cameras,” to be the first to introduce this new way of seeing fish on our screens.
Many people are asking the question, “Where does all this stop?” Here’s the bottom line. There’s no stopping technological advancement. It won’t stop until people quit paying the prices they are asking for all these electronic advancements. If anglers are willing to pay, companies will continue to build bigger and better units.
Here’s the problem; just follow the money! All these electronic companies are pumping thousands of dollars into these professional bass fishing organizations as sponsors, forcing B.A.S.S. and Major League Fishing (MLF) to allow pro anglers to use forward-facing sonar.
I think we are getting to the point where these organizations are going to have to decide what’s more important — sponsorship support or the integrity of the sport? They also need to ask themselves if this new technology is good for the sport in the long run on the professional level.
You can say what you want, but forward-facing sonar (FFS) in bass tournaments is destroying the sport. I’m personally not against FFS for the everyday angler. I think it’s great tool for fun fishing and catching crappie.
I’m even OK with it for local bass tournaments on the amateur level. But when it comes to professional anglers using it on pro tournament trails, I am not a fan and it should be disallowed.
This is the same as Major League Baseball allowing the use of aluminum bats. It’s just not good for the sport of baseball! Hopefully the pro tours will do the right thing and eliminate FFS completely.
The biggest complaints about FFS come from the older generation of anglers, not the young guns on the rise. The young kids today have been raised with FFS from day one and really understand how to use it, giving them a huge advantage over the older anglers.
This could all play out another way. Pro tours may just wait out this issue with FFS and let this older group of anglers walk away or retire because five years from now, FFS won’t even be an issue at all.
So, what’s the next big issue going to be? Probably something totally different, as the electronic companies continue to make improvements and advancements with their electronic units. Only time will tell!
Hall Summit is preparing for a big day of action, community spirit, and charitable giving as the Hall Summit Community Center & Park hosts a full slate of events on Saturday, February 28, 2026, all benefiting Pilots for Patients.
The all-day event will bring together motorcycle riders, barbecue teams, outdoor sportsmen, vendors, and families for a cause that provides critical air transportation for patients in medical need.
One of the highlights of the day will be the Don Bernard Memorial Poker Run, which will begin at 3 State Harley-Davidson in Bossier City before riders make their way to Hall Summit. Motorcycles, cars, Jeeps, and clubs are all welcome to participate, honoring Bernard’s legacy while supporting the life-saving mission of Pilots for Patients.
Also on the schedule is a BBQ Cook-Off, featuring a non-traditional two-meat competition with half chicken and ribs. Teams will compete for bragging rights and prizes, with an entry fee of $150. Smoke will be in the air as pits fire up for what organizers expect to be a competitive and crowd-pleasing cook-off.
Outdoor excitement continues with a Wild Hog Live Catch Tournament, offering 40 award buckles and action throughout the day. The tournament is expected to draw participants from across the region.
In addition to the main events, attendees can enjoy a silent auction, raffles, vendors, concessions, and a variety of family-friendly activities, making the day accessible for all ages.
The event will take place at Hall Summit Community Center & Park, located at 1170 First Street in Hall Summit.
All proceeds from the day will go directly to Pilots for Patients, a nonprofit organization that coordinates free air transportation for patients facing serious medical challenges.
Organizers say the event is about more than competition and entertainment — it’s about honoring a legacy, supporting a life-saving cause, and showcasing the strength of a small community coming together for something bigger.
If you grew up in the 1960s, you remember that nightly publicservice announcement that came on right before the late news: “It’s 10 PM. Do you know where your children are?”
Of course, our parents didn’t know where we were. It was the 60s. Half the time we didn’t know where we were. Childhood back then was a freerange, unsupervised, loosely organized adventure involving bicycles with no helmets, creeks with questionable water quality, and a general understanding that you should be home “before dark,” which could mean anything from 5:30 PM to the next morning depending on the season and your mother’s mood.
Today’s parents track their children with GPS, Bluetooth, satellite imaging, and—if necessary—a drone. In the 60s, the only tracking device was your mother’s voice hollering your name across three neighborhoods like a foghorn powered by righteous indignation. And somehow, that worked.
Back then, if you told your mom, you were “going outside,” that was considered a complete itinerary. No one asked followup questions. No one needed a permission slip. You could be building a treehouse, digging a hole to China, or accidentally setting something on fire. As long as you came home eventually and didn’t bleed on the carpet, you were considered a successful child.
And yet, for all the differences between then and now, one thing hasn’t changed: every generation has to figure out life—and faith—for themselves.
My generation grew up with three TV channels, rotary phones, and the theological certainty that if you ran in church, God would personally trip you. Today’s kids grow up with smartphones, streaming services, and the ability to Google “Why does my pastor say that?” during the sermon. (Please don’t tell me if you’ve done this.)
But here’s the truth: faith has never been something you inherit like your grandmother’s casserole dish.
Each generation has to discover Christ anew—sometimes in ways that surprise the generation before them. And the church, if it wants to stay alive and not become the spiritual equivalent of lukewarm leftovers, has to let the Holy Spirit shape it into a living, breathing, organic body of Christ—not a museum of how things used to be.
The kids who grew up hearing “It’s 10 PM—do you know where your children are?” are now grandparents watching their own grandkids navigate a world we couldn’t have imagined. And just like our parents trusted us to find our way home before dark, we can trust that God is guiding this new generation toward their own encounter with grace.
So the next time you worry about “kids these days,” remember: our parents survived us. And God, who has been faithful through every generation—from rotary phones to TikTok—will be faithful still.
And if you’re reading this after 10 PM, don’t worry. God knows where His children are. Always has. Always will.
Constance “Connie” Brocato Altdoerffer passed away peacefully at her home in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Connie was born to Vincent and Sarah Brocato. She met the love of her life, Frank Altdoerffer, while he was stationed at Barksdale Air Force Base during his service in the Army. They were blessed to share 73 wonderful years together.
Connie was a devoted member of St. Mary of the Pines Church. Her faith was central to her life, and she dearly loved her Lord, her family, and her friends. She was affectionately known as “Nana” by her grandchildren, a title she wore with great pride and love.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Vincent and Sarah Brocato; her brother, Joseph Brocato; her husband, Frank Altdoerffer; and her son, Richard Altdoerffer.
She is survived by her daughter, Karen Hough of Shreveport, LA; daughter-in-law, Michelle Altdoerffer of Edmond, OK; grandchildren, Rick Altdoerffer and wife Jenny of Florida; Scott Altdoerffer and wife Cindy of Florida; Krystal Jones and husband Chris of Bossier City, LA; Bradley Altdoerffer and wife Taylor of Kansas, and Daniel Altdoerffer and wife Katie of Oklahoma. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren: Ricky, Molly, Kaitlyn, Liam, Aubree Rose, and Easton.
Visitation will be held at Osborn Funeral Home in Shreveport, Louisiana, on Friday, January 23 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with a graveside service to follow at 1 p.m. on the grounds of Forest Park East, 3700 St. Vincent Avenue, Shreveport, Louisiana with Father Mark Watson officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Connie’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105.
Dewayne Pierce, 61, passed away on Friday, January 16th, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and deep devotion to his family. His passing has left an ache in the hearts of all who knew him, but his memory will forever live on through the lives he touched.
Dewayne was a loving father, grandfather, husband, son, brother, and friend. Family meant everything to him, and he showed his love not just through words but through his presence, his support, and his unwavering loyalty. He was the kind of man who would do anything for the people he loved. An outdoorsman at heart, Dewayne found peace and joy in nature, especially when fishing and hunting. Some of the most meaningful memories shared with him were spent outdoors, where laughter came easily, and conversations flowed freely. Those moments will forever be treasured by his family.
Dewayne was known for his good heart, his kindness, and the way he made others feel welcome. He had a way of bringing people together and leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met.
He is survived by his loving family, who will carry his memory forward with pride and love: His wife, Wendy Pierce; mother, Ernestine Haney; children, Catrina Burnham and husband, Cody, Crystal Pierce and fiancé, Brooke; stepchildren, Allen Cooley and wife, Alyenna, Matt Cooley and wife, Summer, Codie Taylor; sister, Pam McKeever and husband, Buff; niece, Bailey Newberry, and husband, Matt; grandchildren, Raylee Sisson, Boston Burnham, Bryce Johns; step grandchildren, Aniston, Thomas, Alivia, Austin, Gatlin, Eden, Edison, Mary, Payton, and Maggie; along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and many friends.
Dewayne was preceded in death by his father, Charles H. Pierce; uncle, James D. Pierce; grandparents, JD and Louise Pierce, Marvin and Ola Mae Disotell.
Honoring Dewayne as pallbearers will be Bryce Johns, Wendol Daivs, Freddy Powell, Joe Agee, Bruce Gibson, and Clendale Jones.
Honorary pallbearers will be Darren Disotell, Cody Dluzak, Roger Dluzak, Willie Reed, Denny Garrett, Robbie Davis, and Matt Cooley.
Though he is no longer with us, his spirit, lessons, and love will remain forever in our hearts.
A service to celebrate Dewayne’s life will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Dr., Bossier City, Louisiana. Burial will follow at Pierce-McNutt Family Cemetery in Plain Dealing, Louisiana. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service.
The family appreciates all prayers, love, and support during this difficult time.
The family suggests memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, http://www.stjude.org.
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.
Edward Doyle Jackson February 3, 1954 – January 19, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 31, 2026, 2pm at Shane’s Seafood & BBQ, Bossier City.
Louis S. Kelly December 22, 1933 – January 19, 2026 Service: Thursday, January 22, 2026, 10am at Centuries Memorial Park, Shreveport.
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.
Brett Jacob Guillory August 17, 1980 – January 16, 2026 Service: Thursday, January 22, 2026, 2pm at Rose-Neath Funeral Home Southside, Shreveport.
Anita Jane Bickham Phiffer October 6, 1953 – January 16, 2026 Service: Friday, January 23, 2026, 11am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.
Dewayne Pierce August 9, 1964 – January 16, 2026 Service: Thursday, January 22, 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.
Ronald “Ronnie” Wayne Mitchell November 16, 1946 – January 15, 2026 Service: Thursday, January 22, 2026, 1pm at Forest Park West Cemetery, Shreveport.
Anna Lee Wheeler March 14, 2011 – January 15, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 31, 2026, 2:30pm at WK Palmetto Clubhouse, Benton.
Paul R. Quigley May 19, 1941 – January 14, 2026 Service: Wednesday, January 21, 2026, 11am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier City.
Meeda Tomme Harrison June 15, 1936 – January 13, 2026 Service: Thursday, January 22, 2026, 11am at University Church of Christ, Shreveport.
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.
Jason Lamar Turnage April 21, 1977 — January 11, 2026 Service: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 11am at Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Shreveport.
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.
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.)
Bossier Parish Sheriff Julian Whittington announced several promotions within the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office. These changes reflect the agency’s continued commitment to strong leadership, operational excellence, and service to the citizens of Bossier Parish.
• Shawn Phillips was promoted to Assistant Chief over the Criminal Division. • Mike Gibson was promoted to Major over the Criminal Division. • Chase Townley was promoted to Captain and will serve as the Patrol Commander. • Tim Wynn will now serve as Executive Officer to the Patrol Commander.
Sheriff Whittington said, “These promotions recognize the dedication, experience, and leadership each of these individuals brings to the Sheriff’s Office. I am confident they will continue to serve our agency and the citizens of Bossier Parish with integrity and professionalism.”
The Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office congratulates Assistant Chief Phillips, Major Gibson, Captain Townley, and Lieutenant Wynn on their new roles and looks forward to their continued leadership and service to the community.
The Bossier Chamber of Commerce held a Military Leadership Reception on Wednesday, bringing together leadership and personnel from local military installations with members of the area’s business community.
The event provided an opportunity for military representatives and local business leaders to connect and build relationships that support collaboration between the installations and the Bossier Parish business sector.
Chamber officials thanked military leaders and personnel for their service and participation, noting the importance of strengthening ties between the military and the local community.
Detectives with the Shreveport–Caddo Financial Crimes Task Force are asking for the public’s help in identifying the woman pictured above.
She is wanted in connection with multiple counts of bank fraud. Investigators are releasing these images in hopes that someone will recognize her and help bring this case to a close.
If you know who this person is or have any information that could assist detectives, please contact Shreveport Police Department or Caddo Parish Crime Stoppers at 318-673-7373.
The Bossier City Police Department released its official crime statistics for calendar year 2025 on Jan. 16, showing an overall decrease in reported crime across the city.
According to the department, the reduction reflects continued efforts to reduce crime, enhance public safety, and strengthen partnerships with residents and local organizations. Bossier City Police Chief Daniel Haugen said the decline is a positive sign of increased effective policing and community involvement.
Haugen noted that while the downward trend is encouraging, the department’s work is ongoing. He emphasized that BCPD will continue daily efforts to keep crime as low as possible and maintain Bossier City’s goal of being one of the safest cities in Louisiana.
The 2025 crime data shows notable changes across several major categories when compared to 2024 figures. Homicides decreased from six in 2024 to two in 2025, representing a 67 percent reduction.
Armed robberies declined by 25 percent, dropping from 20 incidents to 15. Burglary cases decreased by 12 percent, from 281 to 247, while aggravated assaults fell by 24 percent, from 431 to 327 incidents.
The department also reported an 11 percent decrease in theft cases, which dropped from 1,856 in 2024 to 1,667 in 2025. Auto thefts saw one of the largest reductions, falling 39 percent from 260 incidents to 158.
Rape was the only category that saw a slight increase, rising from 39 cases in 2024 to 40 in 2025, a two percent increase.
BCPD officials said the statistics highlight progress made through proactive policing strategies and community collaboration, while reinforcing the need for continued vigilance and public engagement to sustain and build upon these improvements.
On January 15, just after 7:00 PM, officers stopped Labarron Johnson for careless driving. What started as a traffic stop quickly turned into something more serious.
Inside the vehicle:
A significant amount of narcotics
A firearm
Johnson was arrested and now faces:
Possession with Intent to Distribute
Illegal Carrying of a Weapon with a Controlled Dangerous Substance (aka trigger lock)
