February 25 marks the birthday of Nina Simone, an artist whose music blurred the lines between entertainment, activism, and cultural revolution. Born in 1933, Simone became one of the most uncompromising voices of the Civil Rights era, using her platform to challenge injustice while reshaping the sound of American music.

Trained as a classical pianist, Simone defied expectations by blending jazz, blues, folk, gospel, and classical influences into a style uniquely her own. Her performances were emotionally raw and politically charged, reflecting both personal struggle and collective Black experience. Songs like “Mississippi Goddam” and “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” became anthems of resistance and pride.

Unlike many artists of her time, Simone refused to separate art from politics. Her willingness to address racism directly often made her controversial, but it also cemented her place as a cultural truth-teller. February 25 serves as a reminder of how her music functioned not just as entertainment, but as commentary on American life.

Simone’s influence on pop culture has only grown over time. Her music has been sampled and referenced by modern artists across genres, from hip-hop to indie pop. Filmmakers and television creators frequently use her songs to underscore moments of tension, empowerment, or historical reflection, introducing her voice to audiences far removed from the 1960s.

Beyond her music, Simone’s image and persona have become cultural symbols. Her unapologetic authenticity and refusal to conform resonate strongly in today’s conversations about artistic freedom and racial justice. Documentaries, biopics, and streaming playlists have renewed interest in her life, prompting deeper discussions about how Black women artists are treated by the industry.

February 25 also invites reflection on Simone’s complicated legacy. Her life was marked by brilliance, struggle, and resistance — elements that mirror the broader Black American experience she so often sang about. Today, she is widely recognized not only as a musical innovator but as a cultural icon who spoke truths others feared to voice.

As Black History Month nears its close, Nina Simone’s birthday serves as a powerful reminder that pop culture can be a force for change — and that music can carry the weight of history.

---

Jeffrey William Wellborn, 67, a resident of Shreveport, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 20, 2026, surrounded by family following a courageous battle with cancer. Jeff was a devoted husband, a loving father, a coach and friend to many.

Jeff was born on March 25, 1958, in Dallas, Texas. He graduated from Parkway High School in 1976 and Louisiana State University Shreveport in 1983. Jeff was preceded in death by his father, James Quillan Wellborn. He is survived by his wife, Lisa Guin Wellborn, their daughter, Madeline Renee Wellborn, and their son, William Jordan Wellborn; his mother Lola Nan “Nanny” Wellborn, his brother James Guy Wellborn (Kim) and their children Chelsea Hampton Heredia (Chris) and Ryan Wellborn (Dena) and sister Louann Wellborn McHalffey (Stacy) and their children Casy McHalffey Leatherman (Levy), Coy McHalffey and Jamie McHalffey Richardson (Patrick); his mother-in-law, Martha Louise DeSoto, his sister-in-law Phyllis Guin Cancienne (Sam) and their children Samuel Paul Cancienne Jr (Emory) and Renee Elizabeth Cancienne.
Jeff leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and family. He had a wry sense of humor and dry wit. His many hobbies and interests helped define who he was. He enjoyed cooking, cycling, camping and nature. Jeff loved playing sports, especially basketball and volleyball, and coaching youth soccer. He volunteered for many years at local triathlons. Jeff was an avid reader, an outspoken community activist and environmentalist.

A celebration of life service will be held at Shreveport Yacht Club on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the local YMCA, Christian Services, Catholic Charities of North Louisiana or a non-profit of your choice.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Dr. John Davis, Dr. Scott Howard and the ICU nursing staff at Willis Knighton Pierremont.Enter the first part of your article here…

---

A funeral service for Nellie Spear Martin Lockhart, 88, will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Haughton, 105 E Washington Ave, Haughton, Louisiana. Burial will follow at Haughton Cemetery in Haughton. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Officiating the service will be Pastor Gevan Spinney.

Nellie was born on May 5, 1937, to Allen L. Spear and Elma Martin Spear in Coushatta, Louisiana, and passed away on Friday, February 20, 2026, in Bossier City, Louisiana.

Nellie attended C.E. Byrd High School and stepped into adulthood early, marrying at seventeen and becoming a mother at eighteen. Before they married, she and Thomas met while taking square‑dancing lessons, quickly becoming dance partners and forming a bond that grew into a lifelong partnership. She went on to raise five children, balancing the demands of a young family with a work ethic that never wavered. In her early years, she worked as a cashier at Brookshire’s and later opened her home to the community by running her own personal day care in Shreveport for ten years.

In 1977, she moved to Princeton and settled next door to her parents, where she lovingly helped care for them until their passing. Afterward, she began a new chapter as a Pest Control Technician with Bagwell Pest Control in Bossier City. Determined to build something of her own, she studied, tested, and earned her Louisiana state license in 1985. From that achievement, she created Nell’s Pest Control, a business she developed, managed, and poured her heart into from 1989 until her retirement in 2015. After 26 years of service, she proudly passed the business on to her daughters, Vanessa and Kimberly, who had worked alongside her for many years.

Outside of work, Nellie found joy in the simple, grounding things of life. She loved the outdoors and enjoyed long walks, vegetable gardening, and tending to her flowers. She and her first husband, Thomas, raised chickens together, sharing fresh eggs with friends and family. She played Pokeno for years with groups of ladies in the Haughton area, and she delighted in traveling, especially the unforgettable road trip across America with three close friends. She also enjoyed church choir trips and outings with Brother Scottie to places like Branson. Her faith was central to her life; she rededicated herself on October 4, 2005, during a revival service at Haughton Baptist, where she found renewed assurance of her salvation. She served as a caretaker not only for her parents but also for her brother, Norris Spear.

Her heart for service extended into the community as she helped prepare and distribute food boxes for needy families through The Action Committee of Haughton. She loved attending church, was active in her Ladies Dorcas Life Group, served on social committees, and faithfully reached out to members with phone calls. At home, she found comfort listening to Billy Graham’s preaching on television, a steady reminder of the faith that guided her life.

Nellie’s story is one of resilience, devotion, and quiet strength. She built a life defined by hard work, service, and love, leaving behind a legacy carried forward by her family, her community, and the many people whose lives she touched.

Nellie was preceded in death by her parents, Allen and Elma Spear; her husbands, Glen Martin and Thomas Lockhart; her sisters, Ola Mae Spear, Bernice Hester, and Leona Hill; and her brothers, Ray, Wesley, Norris, and Buck Spear. Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Sherry Roberson and husband, Wayne, Vanessa Keith and husband, John, and Tracy Wells and husband, Marty, and her son, Michael Martin and wife, Vickie. She is also survived by her granddaughters, Catherine Troquille, Jessica Collins, Ashley Bilbrey, and Alexis Haynes; her grandsons, Johnny Keith, Hunter Wells, and Cameron Wells; her great‑grandchildren, Christian and Cullen Keith, Kaylea and Maverick Collins, and Everly Bilbrey; and her step‑daughters, Sondra Lockhart, Rhonda Foster and husband, Mike, and Heather Clot.

Honoring Nellie as pallbearers will be Johnny Keith, Christian Keith, Cullen Keith, Hunter Wells, Chad Troquille, Chris Carter, and Buck McGee. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Johnny Barbo and Jim Schultz.

The family would like to give thanks to the employees at Cypress Pointe Nursing Center for their care of Mom during her almost 4-week stay with them. A special thanks to Barbara, Nikki, Chaplin Jim, and others with Lifepath Hospice Care who gave mom such comforting care and reassuring support to children & family.

---

Amazon has announced plans to invest $12 billion to build new data center campuses in Caddo and Bossier Parishes, marking the company’s first data center operations in Louisiana.

The project will be built across multiple connected sites on both sides of the Red River and is designed to support cloud computing and artificial intelligence technologies used by customers nationwide. Construction is expected to begin in the coming weeks, with operations launching in phases over the next several years.

The investment is expected to create 540 direct, on-site jobs. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will also generate an additional 1,700 indirect jobs in the Northwest Region, including positions with suppliers, service providers and other businesses that support the campuses.

Amazon is partnering with STACK Infrastructure to develop and construct the facilities. STACK estimates the project could support up to 1,500 construction jobs, creating opportunities for local contractors and skilled trades workers.

State and regional leaders say the project is expected to generate significant new tax revenue for Caddo and Bossier Parishes, helping fund public services, schools and infrastructure improvements.

Amazon officials said the company worked with Southwestern Electric Power Company to ensure it will cover 100 percent of the costs tied to new energy infrastructure and upgrades required to serve the data centers. Company representatives say those upgrades are also expected to strengthen overall grid reliability for other customers.

The announcement adds to Amazon’s existing footprint in Louisiana. From 2010 to 2024, the company invested more than $4.7 billion statewide, operating fulfillment and sortation centers, delivery stations, Whole Foods Market locations and solar energy projects.

To secure the project, Louisiana offered Amazon an incentives package that includes workforce development support through LED FastStart, along with participation in the state’s High Impact Jobs and Data Center Sales Tax Exemption programs.

Regional economic development leaders described the investment as a major win for northwest Louisiana, emphasizing collaboration between Caddo and Bossier Parishes in landing the project.

---

Volunteers with the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office recently took part in a community cleanup along a half-mile stretch of the 1800 block of Spring Street, directly in front of the Caddo Parish Juvenile Court.

The team removed litter and improved the appearance of the area, creating a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming environment for families, youth, and staff who visit the court daily.

Lt. Breck Scott, Public Information Officer for the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, praised the effort: “We are proud of our volunteers for taking the initiative and showing that public service extends beyond just wearing a badge. Small efforts like this can have a significant impact on keeping our parish beautiful.”

The cleanup was part of the Sheriff’s Office’s ongoing efforts to maintain its adopted roadway. Residents and visitors who notice the stretch looking sharp now know the reason behind it.

---

Baton Rouge, LA-Governor Landry formally requested on Feb. 23 that the Office for Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Education’s investigation be expanded to include every public institution of higher education in Louisiana to ensure full compliance with federal law across the state. Letter attached.

“Let me be clear: Louisiana is done with woke DEI policies. Discrimination against ANY student will not be tolerated,” said Governor Landry. “This issue began under the previous administration, and we are fixing it. That is why, I’ve formally requested that the investigation be expanded to EVERY public higher education institution in Louisiana. If there are violations of federal law anywhere in our system, we want them corrected.”

---

William J. “Bill” Blythe Jr. had recently been honorably discharged from the Army and had just been hired as an equipment salesman by the Mankee Equipment Company of Chicago.  Immediately following World War II, so many soldiers were returning home and looking for work that jobs were scarce.  29-year-old Bill could find no work in his hometown of Hope, Arkansas, and was lucky to find work even if it required him to relocate to the windy city.  It could not have come at a better time.  Bill’s wife, 22-year-old Virginia Dell Cassiday, was six months pregnant.  After calling home with the happy news, Bill began the 750-mile drive back to Hope, Arkansas, to prepare the family for the move.   

Just before midnight on May 17, 1946, Bill had driven about half of the 755 miles to Hope when, about three miles west of Sikeston, Missouri, one of the front tires on Bill’s 1942 Buick sedan blew out.  Bill lost control of the car, and it rolled over twice before coming to a stop on the side of the Brown Spur drainage ditch along Highway 60.  Sikeston was surrounded by drainage ditches to help prevent flooding.  Bill suffered a head injury and crawled out of the wrecked car.  He could hear the sounds of passing cars and could see their headlights as they passed.  He began crawling up the steep embankment toward the highway.  As he was crawling, he slipped and fell into the drainage ditch which contained four feet of water.  There, he drowned.

Virginia was devastated.  Three months after the accident, she had her child and named him William J. Blythe III in honor of her late husband. Everyone called him Billy.  Virginia, now a single parent, went to nursing school in New Orleans, Louisiana.  Virginia’s parents took care of Billy while she was away.  In 1950, Virginia returned to Hope and went to work as a nurse.  In that same year, she met and married a car dealership owner named Roger.  In 1956, Roger and Virginia had a son whom they named Roger Jr.  At some point, Billy Blythe began using his stepfather’s last name, and, in 1962, Billy legally changed his last name so that he and his half-brother would have the same last name.  In the following year, Billy was selected to be a delegate to Boys Nation, a special youth leadership conference held in Washington D.C.  Billy was among the other boys from Boys Nation who, along with the Girls Nation, were invited to the Rose Garden at the White House to meet President John F. Kennedy.  Billy was one of the first in line to shake JFK’s hand.  Billy said later that meeting JFK had a profound impact on his life. 

Imagine just for a second that Bill Blythe’s car wreck never occurred.  Billy Blythe III would probably have been born in Chicago.  The whole trajectory of his life would have been different.  He probably would not have become President of the United States.  If he had, we would know him as Bill Blythe rather than Bill Clinton.        

Sources:

1.      Daily American Republic (Poplar Bluff, Missouri), May 18, 1946, p.1.

2.     “It All Began in a Place Called Hope: Biography of the President Bill Clinton,” National Archives, accessed February 15, 2026, https://clintonwhitehouse5.archives.gov/WH/EOP/OP/html/Hope.html.

---

Henry Lee Mecom passed away on Jan. 30, 2026. He was born on Aug. 10, 1934, to Bud and Eunice B. Mecom.

Henry lived a full life working, caring for his family, hobbies- fishing and hunting. He loved his family and spent as much quality time as possible with them.

Proceeded in death: his loving wife Deloris S. Mecom, his son in law Roy J. Cavalier, one grandson, Claude Cavalier and one great grandson Nick Hotard. His parents Bud and Eunice B. Mecom and 4 siblings.

Survivors Include his children: Merlene Hotard and husband Larry Jr., Laurie Cavalier, Brenda Broadus and husband Tony, Shirley Thibodeaux and husband Kenneth, Mark Mecom

Grandchildren: Larry Hotard III and wife Tina, Torey Cavalier, Henry Cavalier, Hollie Cavalier and husband Lance Acevedo, Michael Mecom and wife Bobbie Jo, Ravin Davis and husband Cliff, Kourtney Breaux and husband Jody Breaux, Bethany Mecom, Corbat Dinger and wife Marcell, Destiny Dinger and 18 Great Grandchildren.

---

Betty Jean Brock passed away on February 21, 2026. She will be laid to rest beside her husband at the Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery; no services are scheduled at this time.

Betty was born on April 6, 1933, to the late Harvey Sweet and India Mathis Sweet. A devoted wife and mother, she was a homemaker throughout her life, dedicating herself to the care of her family and home.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lt. Col. Richard Frank Brock, and her daughter, Carol Hanson.

Betty is survived by her children: Debra Ann Evans and husband Harvey, Kathy King and husband David, Richard Frank Brock, Jr. and wife Tracey, and Patricia Stephens and husband Tim; along with numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and other cherished family members and friends.

---

Detectives with the Shreveport Police Juvenile Crimes Unit have arrested two individuals in connection with separate incidents involving alleged abuse of children.

On Feb. 19, officers responded to a report on the 400 block of St. Louis Street, where a 13-year-old was reportedly struck multiple times by his mother, Searea Walker, resulting in injuries. Following an investigation, Walker was arrested and charged with one count of cruelty to a juvenile.

In a separate case stemming from an incident on Feb. 8, Altheamon Bristo Jr. was arrested after investigators determined he allegedly poured hot water on the back of a three-year-old child, causing injuries. Bristo was also charged with one count of cruelty to a juvenile.

The Shreveport Police Department emphasized its commitment to protecting children and holding offenders accountable. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information regarding crimes against children to contact the department at 318-673-7300 or Caddo Crime Stoppers at 318-673-7373.

---

A new business has officially opened in Shreveport. Isabella CPA & Advisory, LLC held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Feb. 19 to mark the launch of its services in the area.

The firm provides accounting and advisory services to local individuals and businesses. 

Paid Content

---

Shreveport Police Chief Smith led members of the Committee of 100 on a tour on Feb. 20 of several local businesses along the Monkhouse Drive corridor, showcasing ongoing efforts to revitalize the area.

While organizers note that work remains, there is a growing sense of optimism as plans for improvements move forward in the coming months. The initiative emphasizes collaboration between public safety officials, local businesses, and community partners to create new opportunities and support economic growth along the corridor.

The Shreveport Police Department expressed gratitude to the Committee of 100 and other partners for their continued support and commitment to building a brighter future for the Monkhouse Drive community.

---

David Frederick passed away suddenly at his home in Shreveport, aged 57, on January 30, 2026. 

David was born in Florida and moved to Shreveport with his family while in school. He graduated from Southwood High and LSU-S, and lived his adult life in Shreveport. 

David loved staying constantly busy with repairing, remodeling, and helping his friends and neighbors. If he wasn’t working out at the gym, he was mowing a yard, fixing a problem, or completing a home improvement project. David was a festival committee member with Mudbug Madness for more than twenty years, and enjoyed helping set up and run the festival and participate in other DSU festivals such as Brew and Rockets Over the Red. He wore many hats including Production Manager at Rebath of Shreveport, and loved his job and his work family of fourteen years there. 

David was a wonderful partner to Sunni Burgess for nineteen years. He was the best possible “step-dad” to her daughter Cecily, always helping whether she needed something moved, assembled, or repaired. David was a lifelong participant in both the cat distribution system and the Boston terrier distribution system, and loved and cared for all the cats and his dog Milo that happened into his life. His current cats Nick and Conway will live with Sunni. 

David was preceded in death by his mother Mary Lou Frederick of Fountain Inn, SC. He is survived by his father Don Frederick, his sister Kathy Smith and her partner Ned Laming , his sister Linda Sener and her husband Chuck, and his nephew Thomas Laming. 

Thanks go to Jeb and Robin Breithaupt and the work family at Rebath for their heartfelt sympathy and memorial luncheon. 

A lovely memorial reception at The Supper Club on February 11 was kindly given by Terri Matthews for David’s Mudbug Madness Festival friends and loved ones, with help from his friends Carol Coe and Nancy Larson. Thank you to these kind friends he held so dear. 

David would have liked to be remembered for his involvement in the community, and would encourage everyone to volunteer for DSU festivals, help with local pet rescues, and patronize locally owned businesses.

---

Funeral services for Kathryn Corliss, 93, will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Christ United Methodist Church, 1204 Crabapple Dr., Shreveport, Louisiana. Burial will follow at Forest Park West Cemetery in Shreveport. A visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Dr. in Shreveport. Officiating the service will be Rev. Willis Dear and Rev. Dr. Jonathan King.

Kathryn was born on September 8, 1932 on a farm near Odebolt, Iowa in rural Sac County. Kathryn was the daughter of Donald and Mary Currie, one of six children. She attended rural country school in Clinton Township until the 8th grade and then attended Odebolt High School, graduating in 1950. After graduation she attended Buena Vista College and then the American Institute of Business in Des Moines, Iowa.

While at AIB she met Donald Corliss of Bedford, Iowa. They were married on Easter Sunday, April 5, 1953. Don was in the Air Force at that time and Kathryn worked hard and saved their money while he was stationed in Thule, Greenland. Don and Kathy moved a few times, living in Mississippi, Illinois, Nebraska, New Jersey, and eventually settling in Shreveport, Louisiana in 1967.

Kathy was a loving mother to her three children: Ellen, Ardyth, and David and loving grandmother to her four grandchildren: Kaitlyn, Arden, Ross and Caryn. Over the years she served as a Girl Scout Troop leader, was involved in many 4-H projects, and also participated in the Southwood High School Band Parents. Kathryn was an avid baker and always kept her family happily supplied with delicious brownies and chocolate chip cookies.

Kathy was a member of Christ United Methodist Church for over 50 years. She taught Sunday school, was a member of United Methodist Women, worked hard on the Church Rummage Sale for many years and also participated in the Prayer Quilt Ministry. Kathy and Don were enthusiastic square dancers for most of their seventy-one-year marriage. Her family was her most important mission, and Kathryn made a loving home for them wherever they lived.

Kathy will be terribly missed, but we will treasure the many memories made together as a loving family.

---

Agents with Attorney General Liz Murrill’s Louisiana Bureau of Investigation arrested a couple from Benton for defrauding the Medicaid and SNAP benefits program of more than $126,000.

The Louisiana Bureau of Investigation (LBI) received a criminal referral from Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) regarding allegations that 38-year-old Krystle Garcia, of Linton Bellevue Road in Benton, a Medicaid recipient, had underreported her income for purposes to receive Medicaid and SNAP benefits.

During this investigation, LBI agents learned that in the period between October 2017 until June 2025, Garcia underreported her household income, failed to disclose her marital status, and submitted false addresses to LDH. Garcia also intentionally misrepresented the availability of health insurance through her husband’s employer. 

LBI’s investigation revealed that Garcia resided with her employed husband at a residence in Bossier Parish and provided LDH with information indicating she received no income and resided only with her minor children. Agents learned that Garcia’s husband, 39-year-old Cody Simmons, had participated in the scheme. Evidence disclosed that Simmons had private insurance coverage for himself but did not enroll Garcia or their children in his employer’s optional health insurance program. The investigation also yielded photographs of Simmons at Bossier Parish grocery stores utilizing Garcia’s SNAP benefits card to purchase large amounts of goods. 

As a result of this scheme, the couple defrauded the Medicaid and SNAP benefits programs of more than $126,000. 

“If you defraud the system, we will find you and prosecute you,” said Attorney General Murrill.

The couple was arrested and booked at the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on Feb. 18 pursuant to arrest warrants issued by the 19th Judicial District Court on charges pertaining to:

• Government Benefits Fraud, LA.R.S. 14:70.9
• Unauthorized use of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, LA.R.S. 14:68.2

Their bond information is unknown at this time. The investigation is ongoing.

---

The Bossier Parish Police Jury moved through a wide-ranging agenda during its regular meeting on Feb. 18, addressing everything from equipment purchases and development requests to public safety initiatives and infrastructure improvements across the parish.

Jurors began by awarding a bid for a removable gooseneck trailer to Scott Equipment.

In public hearing matters, the Police Jury approved raising the speed limit on Rebouche Road in District 6 from 15 mph to 25 mph. The earlier reduction had been implemented because of children in the area, but conditions have since changed. Members also advanced a site plan for Logan Farms Unit No. 1, which includes what will become the parish’s first Scooter’s Coffee at the intersection of U.S. 80 and Hillcrest Circle. The development includes a new public road, drainage improvements, and a right-in/right-out entrance to be permitted by the State of Louisiana.

Looking ahead, the Jury scheduled public hearings for April 1, 2026, to consider amendments to Chapter 122 (Sewage) for both Consolidated Waterworks/Sewerage Districts 1 and 2. These updates include corrections to references in Article III.

Several appointments and reappointments were confirmed during the meeting. Andy Holly and Doug Rogers were reappointed to the Bossier Parish Communications District #1, with new terms extending through March 31, 2029. Members of the Police Jury were also appointed to the Library Board of Control, where the current president and vice president will continue in their officer roles.

In other business, the Jury approved resolutions calling for June 27, 2026, elections to renew special taxes for South Bossier Parish Fire District #2 and Fire Protection District #7. Another resolution was adopted to require water-withdrawing entities to help fund efforts to combat giant salvinia on Lake Bistineau.

Two funding applications also received approval. Through the Local Government Assistance Program (LGAP), the Jury endorsed an application to install automatic water meters in the Country Place Subdivision. Under the CWEF program, members approved an application for a new water storage tank at the East Central Water System Booster Station.

Jurors also voted to accept Edgewater Pass Subdivision Unit #2 into the parish road system. Additionally, they authorized an engineering agreement for Phase 2 of improvements at the Dogwood North pump house.

---

Leonard Dewain Glass, 84, of Bossier City, Louisiana, entered into rest on Thursday, February 19, 2026, after a short illness. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at First Bossier, 2810 E. Texas St., Bossier City, Louisiana. A visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Officiating the service will be Pastor Brad Jurkovich. Burial will follow at the service at Rose-Neath Cemetery on Swan Lake Rd in Bossier City.

Leonard was born in Taylor, Arkansas, on March 6, 1941, where he grew up and graduated from Taylor High School. He received the Lord Jesus at age 17 in a meeting at the First Baptist Church in Taylor High School after a fire.

Leonard served his country for eight years in the United States Air Force, where he operated and repaired diesel power plants in various places. After his service, he became a Journeyman Electrician and was also an instrumentation technician for the Arizona Chemical Plant in Springhill, Louisiana, and various other companies.

He moved to Shreveport, Louisiana, in 1998, and later to Bossier City, where he met and married his wife, Donna.

Leonard was preceded in death by his loving parents, Leonard Alexander (Bo) Glass and Johnnie Irene Gordon Glass. Also preceding him in death were his brothers (twin infant) Homer Dwight, Jimmy, and Leon Glass; son, Jimmy Leonard Glass; granddaughter, Brandi Mae Glass; daughter, Dana Lynn Tatom, and the mother of his children, Brenda Carolyn Dyars (Randy).

He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Donna Blue Glass; daughters, Judi Glass Hayes, Mindy Pasquier, and husband, Brian, and Dana Woodfin; son, Timothy Earl Glass, and wife, Joann; brother, Gary Don Glass, and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

He loved and enjoyed his family, church friends, and prayed daily for them. He had a deep love for his country. He was a member of First Bossier Baptist Church, where he attended and looked forward to Ron Smith’s Connection Class, the Men’s Thursday Morning Bible Study, and Zoom bible study each week. Leonard was also a member of the American Legion Post 191, where he served as Chaplain.

Above all else, Leonard will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his generous spirit, and his willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His sense of humor brightened the lives of those around him, and his kindness left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

---

Tanya Corynn Holmes was born on November 22, 1974, to Randall and Ramona Erickson in Boise, Idaho, and passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026, at the age of 51, in Bossier City, Louisiana.

Tanya Holmes was a devoted wife to her husband of 28 years, Chris Holmes, and a loving mother to their two children. She worked as a sales consultant for Scentsy and Tupperware, but her greatest pride came from being a dedicated military spouse and homemaker. Tanya poured her heart into supporting her family through every move, every challenge, and every season of life. She also gave generously of her time, volunteering in various children’s programs at her local church, where her kindness, patience, and steady presence touched countless young lives.

Tanya found joy in life’s simple moments, especially riding as a passenger on the back of Chris’s motorcycle with no destination in mind — just the open road and the freedom of being together. She preferred small gatherings and a close circle of friends, but she greeted everyone she met with a bright smile and a warm hug. Those who knew her will remember her gentle spirit, her loyalty, and the way she made people feel welcomed and loved.

Tanya was preceded in death by her grandparents. Left to cherish her memory are her parents, Randall and Ramona Erickson; her loving husband, Chris Holmes; daughter, Lindsay Holmes-Delo and husband, Derek; son, Aaron Jacob A.J. Holmes; sisters, Jenny and Angela; adopted older brother, Chris Erickson; and adopted older sister, Shaelagh.

---

Students in Caddo Parish Public Schools had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of government processes during a special educational visit as part of the “Congress to the Classroom” initiative.

The program brought a member of the U.S. House of Representatives to Booker T. Washington High School and J.S. Clark Academy, where students engaged in discussions about the three branches of government and learned about the differences between federal and state elected offices.

School officials said the initiative is designed to strengthen students’ knowledge of government, highlight the importance of civic education and encourage lifelong engagement in the democratic process.

District leaders described the experience as a way to bring learning to life for students and to reinforce that their voices and participation in government matter. Educators expressed appreciation for the opportunity to connect classroom lessons with real-world perspectives on civic responsibility.

---

Bossier Parish officials have announced that Winfield Road will be closed beginning Monday, Feb. 23 to allow crews to perform a railroad bore to install a new water main and replace the drainage pipe beneath the roadway.

The closure will remain in place through March 14. Detours will direct motorists as follows:

• From the east: Highway 80 → Wafer Road → Winfield Road

• From the west: Bellevue Road → Winfield Road

Work crews are scheduled to begin early on February 23, and detours will remain active throughout the project.

Parish officials say the contractor is prepared to mobilize and begin the railroad bore on Monday, March 2. If work proceeds as scheduled and boring is completed by Friday, March 6, crews will use the following week to backfill and replace asphalt as required by specifications so the roadway can safely reopen to traffic.

All work timelines are weather permitting.

---

The LSU Shreveport student body didn’t have to look far when voting for its 2026 Homecoming King and Queen.

Shreveport natives Devyn Pitts and Courtney Patterson were coronated as the king and queen Thursday at halftime of the men’s basketball game.

Pitt and Patterson, along with the rest of the LSUS Homecoming Court rode in Sunday’s Krewe of Highland parade, serving as LSUS ambassadors to the community.

Pitts is a digital arts sophomore who reigns as LSUS’s first Mr. Black Student Union in addition to memberships in Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and the Student Activities Board.

The Southwood High graduate is active in the Shreveport community through service and mentorship.

Patterson is an elementary education senior who reigns as LSUS’s first Miss Black Student Union in addition to posts like president of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and membership in multiple honor societies.

The five-time title holder in the Miss Louisiana Organization founded her service platform “We Are H.U.M.A.N.,” which promotes kindness and compassion.

The rest of the LSUS Homecoming Court includes broadcast journalism senior Riley Burns, biology junior Lawrence Harrison, biology junior April George, marketing sophomore Boldizsar Varga, biology sophomore Nezar Zeidan, pre-physical therapy sophomore Grace Gonzalez-Liz, and digital arts freshman Zaria Randle.

---

The countdown to Christmas begins early this year as the annual Christmas in the Sky celebration hosts its official Kickoff and Theme Reveal on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

The event will take place at 6 p.m. at the Capri Theatre, located at 620 Milam Street in downtown Shreveport.

Community members are invited to attend the kickoff, where organizers will unveil the theme for the upcoming Christmas in the Sky season. Attendees are encouraged to bring a friend and join in the excitement as planning begins for one of the area’s signature holiday events.

Free street parking will be available after 5 p.m.

Christmas in the Sky is presented by the Shreveport Regional Arts Council, located at 801 Crockett Street in Shreveport.

Organizers say the kickoff marks the first step in preparing for this year’s festivities and encourages the community to get involved early.

---

Theda Annette Haire Perrin (Aka Aunt Red) was born August 21, 1947, and went to heaven on January 15, 2026. She was born in Pleasant Hill, Louisiana. and raised in the Wallace Community. Although she never had children of her own, she was always there to help raise, “spoil” all her nieces and nephews. She was happiest when the family gathered to enjoy great food and family time together and she was always there to listen and help if needed.

She was preceded in death by her parents Hattie and Truman Haire, along with her brother Valrey and his wife Jessie, her brother Jack and his wife Aubyn, her brother Waymon Haire, and one sister Mary Ann Hinds and her husband Terral. She is survived by her sister- in -law Bobbie Nell Haire and too many nieces, nephews, grands, great grands to mention them all.

Aunt Red worked at Cypress Baptist Church for over 30 years. She had numerous jobs while there, but Brother Billy Pierce used to say she was there to keep him in line and they were great friends till the end.

One of her hobbies – first and foremost – was collecting antiques. She would go to garage sales and find all the bargains. She wrote a letter 20 years ago stating that she found an urn at a garage sale that we could put her in. Where that urn is now – nobody knows but it’s probably buried in her garage with all the other great treasures she has accumulated over the years. The boys told her she was never moving again after they had the task of moving her and her “treasures” from Bossier.

She also enjoyed plants. She could tell you what they were , how to care for them and give you a cutting to start one of your own. She had so many different varieties that it took a horse trailer to move them all to Wallace.

The family suggests any memorials go to Wallace Baptist Church, Wallace Cemetery, or St Jude Children’s Hospital .

A celebration of life service will be held at Wallace Baptist Church on February 28, 2026 with visitation beginning at 10 A.M. and the service to follow at 11 A.M. Following the fellowship meal with family and friends, interment will be at Wallace Cemetery.

---

Ronnie Wayne Anderson, (R.W.), went to meet his Lord and Savior on Monday, February 9, 2026 in Shreveport, Louisiana. A “Celebration of Life” will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. at The Summit, 5400 East Texas St. in Bossier City, Louisiana.

Ronnie Wayne was born on April 4, 1956 in Shreveport, Louisiana to Arnold and Nadine Anderson and passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026 in Shreveport. He had recently retired from Kyocera Senco Industrial Tools, Inc. after 46 years of service. He received multiple service awards. He was always immensely proud of his attention to delivering the best customer service to his clients.

He was involved in various athletic sports before he became ill. Tennis was a sport he enjoyed often and always wished he could still play. Golf became one of his passions. Even after he quit playing often, he stayed connected with all his golfing friends. They were a reliable source of happiness for him. Fishing was a love as a young boy and continued throughout his life. He loved going to his sister Karen’s pond attempting to get that trophy bass. He loved his family deeply, and they were always his top priority.

But he was most proud of the band, “Raven.” Raven went from a band no one had heard of to one of the most sought-out bands in the Shreveport/Bossier area. They performed at local restaurants and casinos. He felt that this was “some of the most talented people he had ever played with in one group.”

Left to cherish his memory is his daughter, Jennifer Shea Anderson and his grandson, Trason; the love of his life, Deanna Robinson Parker; sisters, Gloria Wray and husband, Charles, Pat Neel, and husband, Jerry, Linda Mauldin and husband, Steve, Karen Ryan and her partner, Mickey McLeland; brother, Ronald Anderson and wife, Karen; nephews, Ronald Anderson, Jr., Jeff Wray, Wesley Ryan and Stoney Ryan; and niece, Chrystal Neel Crawford.

---