James Raymond Graves, 54, of Caddo, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at his home on July 25, 2026.

James was born on July 3, 1972, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to Clyde Lee Creel Jr. and Dale Elaine (Lyons) Graves.

James attended school in Minden, Louisiana. He was a talented artist who enjoyed drawing and creating projects both for himself and for others. He had a creative spirit and loved expressing himself through his artwork. He was also an avid gamer who especially enjoyed playing Fortnite, Minecraft, and Dragon games, along with many other action games. James was a devoted Star Wars fan and loved collecting and building car models.

James is survived by his son, James Graves of Durant, OK; sisters, Robin Wallace and husband Chad of Caddo, OK, Katrina Peden and husband Eddie of Mead, OK; nephews, Tyler Moore, and Isaiah Moore of Caddo, OK.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Clyde Lee Creel Jr. and Dale Elaine (Lyons) Graves; bonus father, James Graves; grandfather, Lloyd Lyons; grandmother, Dorthy Lyons; aunt, Cardinal Dianne.

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NO SERVICES SCHEDULED AT THIS TIME

CONDOLENCES MAY BE SENT TO THE FAMILY BY EMAIL TO: BROWNS@ATOKA.NET. PLEASE REFERENCE THE NAME OF THE DECEASED IN YOUR CORRESPONDENCE

CREMATION UNDER THE DIRECTION OF

BROWN’S FUNERAL SERVICE – ATOKA, OK

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Shreveport police have arrested a woman accused of pointing a firearm at two people during a road rage incident on Youree Drive.

On June 26, 2026, officers assigned to the Shreveport Police Department’s Area 2 Patrol Division responded to the 8500 block of Youree Drive regarding an assault and battery complaint. Officers learned the incident had occurred earlier that morning in the 8700 block of Youree Drive.

Investigators obtained video footage, interviewed the two victims and canvassed nearby businesses. Additional surveillance footage and witness statements helped detectives determine that Latasha Williams, 40, allegedly pointed a handgun at both victims while the vehicles were traveling along Youree Drive.

On July 17, detectives obtained an arrest warrant charging Williams with two counts of aggravated assault with a firearm.

Williams turned herself in at the Caddo Correctional Center on July 21, 2026, and was taken into custody.

The Shreveport Police Department reminds motorists that anger behind the wheel can quickly turn a minor traffic dispute into a serious criminal case. Drivers are encouraged to avoid confrontation, create distance and contact law enforcement if they feel threatened.

SHREVEPORT, La. — Shreveport police have arrested a woman accused of pointing a firearm at two people during a road rage incident on Youree Drive.

On June 26, 2026, officers assigned to the Shreveport Police Department’s Area 2 Patrol Division responded to the 8500 block of Youree Drive regarding an assault and battery complaint. Officers learned the incident had occurred earlier that morning in the 8700 block of Youree Drive.

Investigators obtained video footage, interviewed the two victims and canvassed nearby businesses. Additional surveillance footage and witness statements helped detectives determine that Latasha Williams, 40, allegedly pointed a handgun at both victims while the vehicles were traveling along Youree Drive.

On July 17, detectives obtained an arrest warrant charging Williams with two counts of aggravated assault with a firearm.

Williams turned herself in at the Caddo Correctional Center on July 21, 2026, and was taken into custody.

The Shreveport Police Department reminds motorists that anger behind the wheel can quickly turn a minor traffic dispute into a serious criminal case. Drivers are encouraged to avoid confrontation, create distance and contact law enforcement if they feel threatened.

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Caddo Parish Public Schools has announced three new principal appointments for Booker T. Washington High School, University Elementary and Pine Grove Elementary.

Matt Ezell has been named principal of Booker T. Washington High School. According to the district, Ezell brings leadership experience to the role and will work alongside students, staff, families and alumni to honor the school’s traditions while building for the future.

Charles Moser has been named principal of University Elementary. Moser has served the school for more than two decades as a teacher and, most recently, as instructional coordinator. The district said his experience, strong relationships and commitment to the University Elementary community will provide a seamless transition into the leadership role.

Tiffany Davis has been named principal of Pine Grove Elementary. Davis brings 17 years of experience in education, including service as a classroom teacher and instructional coordinator. According to the district, she has demonstrated a commitment to supporting teachers, strengthening instruction and using data to improve student outcomes throughout her career.

Caddo Parish Public Schools welcomed all three principals as they begin their new leadership roles.

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The City of Bossier City has issued a precautionary boil advisory for customers along East Texas Street from Youree Street to Benton Road following a water main break near 2061 E. Texas St.

According to the city, a contractor working in the area struck a 12-inch water main. Bossier City crews have isolated the line and are working to complete repairs.

Affected customers are advised to boil water for one minute before drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth or preparing food until the advisory is lifted. Residents may continue using water for bathing and other non-consumption purposes.

The city said this is a precautionary boil advisory, not a boil order. Water samples will be submitted for testing, and residents will be notified once the advisory has been rescinded.

The advisory affects customers along East Texas Street from Youree Street to Benton Road.

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Louisiana Key Academy announced that its Caddo Parish campus has received an AT&T Connected Learning donation.

According to the academy, the donation will help provide students with greater access to technology and resources.

Louisiana Key Academy thanked AT&T for supporting its students and helping the school continue its mission of educating dyslexic thinkers.

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Tracy Jo Fortner, age 53, entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior on July 19, 2026.

Born in Greenville, Texas, Tracy was the beloved daughter of Fred Gregory and Dianah Murphy. She devoted her life to her family as a homemaker and found her greatest joy in caring for those she loved. Tracy was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a fiercely dedicated caregiver to her special daughter, Shelby. Her daughters were the center of her world, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

One of Tracy’s greatest blessings was her precious granddaughter, Eliyanah, whom she adored beyond measure. The love she shared with her family will forever remain a treasured part of their lives and memories.

Left to cherish her memory are her loving husband, Jesse Fortner; her daughters, Brittany and Shelby Keith; her mother, Dianah Murphy; her sister, Ronnie Miller; her brother, Stacey Gregory; and her cherished granddaughter, Eliyanah.

Tracy was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Jordan Keith, who left this world far too soon, and by her father, Fred Gregory.

Though her earthly journey has ended, Tracy’s love, kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A private Celebration of Life will be held with family and close friends.

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Ronald Wayne “Ronnie” Adams, 77, of Elm Grove, Louisiana, passed away on July 17, 2026, after a lengthy illness. He was born on July 7, 1949, to Thomas Jeff Adams, Sr. and Wilma Evelyn Horton.

Ronnie was a resident of Elm Grove for the past 20 years and was well known for his love of fishing and his dedication to his community. He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army. Following his military service, Ronnie enjoyed a long and distinguished career with the City of Shreveport Waste and Water Management Department, where he worked for 27 years before retiring as Superintendent.

An avid fisherman throughout his life, Ronnie was active in several fishing clubs, including the H2O Club and the Old Folks Fishing Club, where he formed many lasting friendships. Ronnie was also a member of the Lake Bistineau Pool League and the APA. 

Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Jeff Adams, Sr. and Wilma Evelyn Horton.

He is survived by his daughter, Pamela Miller; his son, Ronald Wayne Adams, Jr.; his grandchildren, Landon Jacob Miller, Jr., Noah Wayne Miller, and Ethan Charles Roth; his great-granddaughter, Adelyn Grace Miller; and his brother, Thomas Jeff Adams, Jr., along with numerous extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

Ronnie will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his love of the outdoors, and the time he spent with family and friends. His kindness, dedication, and quiet strength will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

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A Shreveport man who coerced a teen-aged girl to have sex was found guilty in Caddo District Court Wednesday, July 22, 2026.

Antonio Leon, 44, was convicted by a two-woman, four-man jury in District Judge John D. Mosely’s court, which deliberated for one hour and 12 minutes before returning its verdict of guilty as charged of molestation of a juvenile. The trial began July 20, 2026.

Jurors determined that on a Friday evening in October 2023, defendant Leon, the live-in boyfriend of the victim’s mother, coerced the teen to have sex.

The next day the victim told her sister and her boyfriend at the time and swore them to secrecy for fear of the effect on her family. The following September, the mother of the victim’s boyfriend told the victim’s father, who reported the crime to the police. The victim was taken to the Gingerbread House and interviewed, where she detailed the crime.  Leon was questioned and confessed.  

When Leon returns to Judge Mosely’s court for sentencing on August 31, 2026, he faces at least five and up to 20 years in prison with or without hard labor and a fine of up to $10,000.

Assistant District Attorneys Ashlyn Thomas and Ross Owen prosecuted Leon, who was defended by the Caddo Parish Public Defender’s office.

The case was docket No. 404330.

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The Caddo Parish School Board unanimously approved an employee stipend plan during its meeting Tuesday, continuing its commitment to invest in the employees who serve Caddo students and schools.

All eligible employees will receive a $1,000 stipend. Employees on salary grades with starting pay below $30,000 will receive an additional $500, bringing their total stipend to $1,500. Payments will be made on or before Aug. 15.

The approval follows the board’s June action providing a 6% across-the-board pay raise for eligible employees. According to the district, the investments recognize the work of Caddo Schools employees and support efforts to recruit and retain educators and support professionals.

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The Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office recognized three longtime employees today as they officially retired following years of dedicated service to the agency and the citizens of Bossier Parish.

Family members, friends, and fellow employees gathered with Sheriff Whittington to honor Lieutenant Johnnie Estess, Dispatchers Vickie Baker-Kleinsasser, and Tina Revoir during a retirement ceremony celebrating their careers and contributions to the Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Whittington said, “Today we recognize three individuals whose careers have left a lasting impact on this agency. Their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to serving others have helped make the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office stronger, and we are grateful for the example they have set throughout their careers.”

Lieutenant Estess began his career with the agency in 1998 and served in a variety of assignments throughout nearly three decades of service. His career included time in Patrol, and on the DEA Task Force before advancing through the ranks to Lieutenant. He concluded his career at the Viking Drive Substation, where he served as Escort Team Coordinator, EVOC Instructor, and assisted with POSSE operations.

Vickie Baker-Kleinsasser joined the Communications Division in 2007 and became a respected leader within the department, serving for many years as a shift supervisor. As the agency’s Terminal Agency Coordinator (TAC), she played a key role in maintaining CJIS compliance and ensuring personnel remained current on required certifications and testing.

Tina Revoir also began her career in Communications in 2007 and became known for her steady calm presence, professionalism, and commitment to service. Throughout her career, she provided critical support to deputies in the field while serving as a calm and reassuring voice during emergency situations.

Please join us in congratulating Johnnie, Vickie, and Tina on their well-earned retirements and thanking them for their years of service to the people of Bossier Parish.

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Jody was born June 18, 1939, to Harry James and Nettie Cannon Van Dyke and heard the Master’s call on Saturday, June 18, 2026.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Patricia Van Dyke Frey. She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 56 years, Thomas “Tom” Staggs; nephews and nieces, James Frey (Rachael), James Barnett (Amy), and Becky Henderson; her heart sister, of 50-plus years, Marilyn Abbott; loyal, faithful and loving friends, Debbie Rudolph, Holi Teague, and Wanda Fields; daughter, Karen Foster (Garth); five grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren.

Jody was a devout Christian and strived to obey the commands of the Lord Jesus and was always active in the church where she and Tom resided. One of the great joys in her life was her privilege to serve as a “Pink Lady” with the Schumpert Hospital Guild in Shreveport.

Jody grew up in Shreveport, and since her father was denied the companionship of sons, he raised his daughters as if they were. She was an accomplished horsewoman, could willow a duck blind, lay a spinner bait at the foot of a cypress tree 30’ away, and much to the chagrin of her husband, could back a boat trailer better than he. When they married, Tom brought her to Houston, where he had a bachelor apartment in the bohemian section of the Westheimer/Montrose neighborhood. The next morning when he left for work, she went for a walk in the district and little did he know, when he returned home, they would be relocating. He just thought it was a great place to live.

Jody and Tom kept horses during the time they lived in The Woodlands, Texas, and spent many happy hours trail riding, grilling, and fishing at the horse pasture. They loved traveling in the Texas Hill Country, and they covered thousands of miles on rural ranch roads of the hills and the land of clear living waters.

While living in The Woodlands, Jody was exposed to a situation where children were traumatized as a result of a motor vehicle accident. She envisioned a program that would bring comfort to children experiencing distress, and so the “Hug-A-Bears” initiative was born. She created a pattern of a child’s stuffed bear, hounded stores for cloth and stuffing donations, and recruited women’s civic clubs and organizations in South Montgomery County to sew. These Hug-A-Bears were supplied to ER rooms, firefighters, police, and other first responders to give to children in trauma situations. For her efforts, she was selected as the Montgomery County “Woman of the Year” in 1990.

The family would like to thank Tommie Ann Cassidy, FNP-C, and her staff for their loving and compassionate care through the years. We also would like to recognize Bristol Hospice staff, Selina Harper, Tamya Sims, Sonya Walton, and Tonia Hogan for their tender and devoted care of Jody.

The family suggests memorials may be made to the Springhill Methodist Church Choir, 104 4th Street NW, Springhill, LA 71075.

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John Manuella, 92, of Sandusky passed away peacefully early Wednesday morning July 15, 2026, at his home surrounded by his children.

Born on January 17, 1934, in Shreveport, LA, the son of Pete and Grace Manuguerra. He worked in sales for over 20 years with Grill Meats and later retired from Dinner Bell Foods.

He will be remembered as being a loving, kind, selfless father and grandfather who enjoyed being with his family.

He is survived by his daughter, Cindy Urso and her family, and his son, Thom Manuella, and his family. As well as numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, and nieces, and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Angie Zam, and three brothers, Mike, Joe, and Frank Manuella, his wife of 50 years Betty (Baumler) Manuella, his two sons, Jeff and Jude Manuella, his daughter-in-law Debbie (Baumeister) Manuella, and his grandson Jon Manuella.

As per John’s wishes, there will be no services. His desire was to be cremated and laid to rest with his wife, Betty.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made in his memory to Cancer Services, 505 E.  Perkins Ave, Sandusky, OH  44870.  Many thanks go out to Clair with Western Reserve and Kelly with Ohioan Home Health and Hospice.

Arrangement entrusted to David F. Koch Funeral and Cremation Services 520 Columbus Ave, Sandusky, OH 44870

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The Shreveport-Caddo Financial Crimes Task Force has arrested Leigh Ann Rigsby following an investigation into the alleged theft of funds from Water Works Irrigation Incorporated.

Investigators learned Rigsby managed the company, which was owned by her ex-husband, from approximately August 2025 through April 2026. During that time, she allegedly created a similarly named business and diverted customer payments into accounts under her control.

Financial records showed that multiple checks intended for Water Works Irrigation Incorporated were deposited into Rigsby’s business account, including one check totaling $20,055.28.

Investigators also obtained evidence that customers were directed to send payments to a post office box associated with another business operated by Rigsby.

Rigsby was arrested for one count of Theft and booked into the Caddo Correctional Center on July 21, 2026. 

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A citizen tip led to the arrest of a wanted burglary suspect on July 20, 2026, according to the Shreveport Police Department.

Officers arrested Trevell Jackie Ray Tyler on active warrants connected to multiple property-crime investigations.

Police said a concerned citizen contacted law enforcement after seeing information on social media and reported that Tyler was at Ants Urban Lounge. Officers responded to the business, located Tyler and confirmed he was the wanted individual.

During the arrest, officers also discovered that Tyler was in possession of a stolen firearm. He was taken into custody without further incident and booked on the outstanding warrants, along with additional charges unrelated to the original investigations.

Tyler faces the following charges:

• Five counts of simple burglary
• Two counts of access device fraud
• One count of principal to access device fraud
• Resisting an officer
• Possession of a stolen firearm

The Shreveport Police Department said the arrest demonstrates how information shared with the public can generate valuable tips and help officers quickly locate wanted individuals.

The department thanked the citizen who recognized Tyler and contacted law enforcement.

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Hot and mostly dry conditions will continue across Caddo and Bossier parishes through early next week, with afternoon temperatures remaining in the mid to upper 90s and heat index values climbing above 100 degrees each day.

Wednesday will be sunny and hot with highs in the upper 90s. Northeast winds will range from 5 to 10 mph, and heat index values could reach 106 degrees during the afternoon. Wednesday night will be clear with lows in the mid 70s and northeast winds of 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday will be mostly sunny with highs in the mid 90s and northeast winds of 5 to 10 mph. Thursday night will be mostly clear with lows in the mid 70s.

Friday will be partly cloudy and hot with highs in the mid 90s. Friday night will be partly cloudy with lows in the upper 70s.

Saturday will remain partly cloudy and hot with highs in the mid 90s. Heat index values could reach 105 degrees during the afternoon. Saturday night will be partly cloudy with lows in the upper 70s.

Sunday’s forecast calls for mostly sunny skies and highs in the upper 90s. Afternoon heat index values could once again reach 105 degrees. Sunday night will be mostly clear with lows in the upper 70s.

The hot weather is expected to continue into Monday with mostly sunny skies and highs in the upper 90s. Heat index values could reach 105 degrees during the afternoon.

Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, and take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses as the prolonged stretch of summer heat continues across northwest Louisiana.

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Troopers have made an arrest in connection with the fatal hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of 43-year-old Jerry Vest.

As a result of the investigation and through information obtained, Troopers identified the vehicle involved in the crash as a 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe and determined that 71-year-old Miguel Angel Ceballos-Vasquez of Shreveport was the vehicle’s driver when it struck Vest.

On July 20, 2026, working in coordination with local, state, and federal authorities, Troopers located Ceballos-Vasquez and took him into custody without incident. Ceballos-Vasquez was transported to the Bossier Parish Maximum Security Jail, where he was processed on charges of felony hit-and-run driving and obstruction of justice. This investigation remains active and ongoing.

See below for the initial news release.

TROOP G NEWS RELEASE

June 21, 2026

Troopers Request Public Assistance in Bossier Parish Fatal Hit-and-Run Investigation

Bossier Parish – On June 20, 2026, at approximately 10:30 p.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop G responded to a fatal hit-and-run crash on Louisiana Highway 3 near Courtney Lane. The crash claimed the life of

43-year-old Jerry Vest, Jr. of Mooringsport.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Vest was walking south in the left lane on Louisiana Highway 3 when he was struck from behind by an unknown vehicle. Vest sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The unknown vehicle did not contact law enforcement and fled the scene in an unknown direction.

Impairment on the part of Vest is suspected. Standard toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers are still working to identify the driver and vehicle involved. Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact Louisiana State Police Troop G at 318-741-7411. Information can also be reported anonymously through the Louisiana State Police online reporting system by visiting lsp.org and clicking on Report Suspicious or Criminal Activity, or calling the Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.

Louisiana State Troopers urge pedestrians to remain vigilant while walking near roadways. Taking simple precautions such as wearing light-colored clothing, keeping safe distances from travel lanes, and walking while facing oncoming traffic can greatly reduce the risk of pedestrian-related crashes. Additionally, drivers need to be aware of the consequences of hit-and-run driving. Those who commit the crime of felony hit-and-run driving resulting in death or serious bodily injury can face fines of up to five thousand dollars and up to ten years in prison.

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Bossier City Mayor Tommy Chandler hosted his monthly Mayor’s Prayer Luncheon, bringing together residents, community leaders, first responders, elected officials and local businesses for a time of faith and fellowship.

Chandler thanked Judge Jeff Cox for delivering a message during the luncheon and recognized Addalynn Allen for sharing a musical performance.

Chandler also thanked Sam Armenio for sponsoring this year’s luncheon and Lil Smokehouse BBQ for providing food for the event.

Chandler expressed appreciation to those who attended and helped make the event a success, noting the continued support, prayers and commitment of the community.

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Ivan Lake has received several recent improvements aimed at enhancing the experience for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting the lake.

Located within the Bodcau Wildlife Management Area in Bossier Parish, the lake received upgrades from Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Division staff.

Recent renovations at the Ivan Lake Fishing Pier and surrounding areas included replacing damaged boards on all five fishing piers, stabilizing pier railings to improve safety, clearing and mulching bank fishing areas near the piers, erosion control work along sidewalks, maintenance of channel marker signs and drainage improvements to help protect the piers from future damage.

Ivan Lake underwent a complete renovation from 2006-2011, with fishing piers and channel markers installed in 2012. Fourteen years later, the improvements are intended to help the lake continue providing fishing opportunities for visitors each year.

Visitors are invited to enjoy the upgrades, whether fishing from the pier, fishing from the bank or enjoying the scenery.

Before visiting, users of the Bodcau Wildlife Management Area are required to have a WMA Access Permit and complete a Self-Clearing Permit.

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It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Willie Ray Boggs Jr., who passed away on July 16, 2026, at the age of 62.

Willie Boggs was born on July 18, 1963, in Shreveport, Louisiana. Willie lived a life defined by love, kindness, hard work and dedication to his family and friends. He touched the lives of many through his generosity, wisdom and unwavering support for those around him. Throughout his life, Willie was known for his 20 years in Testament Construction, his handyman work, and took great pride in fishing, making birdhouses, crosses, helping others and shooting pool. Whether spending time with family and friends, enjoying the grandbabies and great-grandbabies, or lending a helping hand to someone in need, he left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Willie had several friends and cousins who looked up to him for guidance.

Above all, Willie cherished his family. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Bridget Boggs; his children: April Moseley, her husband Chris and their children; Rainey Broadway, her husband Jake and their children Eloise and Stella; Jordan Young, his girlfriend Angel and Jordan’s son, Jordan Jr.; Delaney Malone and her boyfriend Kenneth; and Betty Nicole Williams, her husband Chris and their son, Chris’shaun.

Willie also had three stepchildren: Samantha Butcher, her husband James and their son Killian; Chasidy Gentry, her husband Jamie and their daughters Lilly and Grace; and Dalton Kuhn, his only stepson.

Also left to cherish his memory are his sisters, Kim Boggs and her children, and Glenda Briceno and her children; and his brothers, David Wyndon and his children, and Billy Johnson and his children.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Ray Boggs Sr. and Ola Glennis Johnston; his sister, Tonie Renea Tanner; his brother, Roger Dale Boggs; his great-grandbaby, Georgia Dale Broadway; and his ex-wife, Barbara Boggs.

Though hearts are heavy, his family finds comfort in the memories they shared and the legacy of love, strength and compassion he leaves behind. His guidance, laughter and gentle spirit will be deeply missed. He always kept his faith in the Lord and will be forever remembered.

Services will be held Wednesday, July 22, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Aulds Funeral Home, 7849 East Kings Highway, Shreveport, LA 71115.

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John “Scotty” Wade, the son of U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. (Ret.) and Mrs. Ernest Wade, both now deceased, passed away at the age of 72 in Alexandria, Louisiana.

Due to his father’s military service, Scotty Wade, a native of Shreveport, Louisiana, lived in many states, including spending more than 50 years in Warner Robins, Georgia.

While in Warner Robins, Scotty enjoyed bowling with his friends from Happy Hour, participating in Special Olympic Games and traveling throughout the state. Wherever he went, he always had a big smile and brought smiles to those around him. He never met a stranger, only a friend he had not yet met.

Survivors include his brother, Paul C. Wade of Louisiana, and two nephews, Jason C. Wade of Louisiana and Samuel T. Wade of Colorado.

Scotty passed away on Christmas Day 2025, but due to veteran and family interment delays, a graveside service at Arlington National Cemetery is scheduled for July 31, 2026, at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Happy Hour Services at happyhourservicecenter.org. Donors are asked to reference “Scotty” in the comments.

The service will be held Friday, July 31, at Arlington National Cemetery, 1 Memorial Ave., Arlington, VA 22211, from 2 to 2:30 p.m. (Central time).

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The Shreveport Police Department reported that officers arrested a man after recovering a concealed AK-9 semiautomatic handgun near a school.

According to the department, members of the Violent Crimes Abatement Team were conducting investigative follow-ups on July 16, 2026, when they observed Dalvin Hall Jr. walking in the 700 block of West 63rd Street along the northern boundary of the Caddo Career and Technology Center.

Officers noticed a visible bulge near Hall’s waist and contacted him. Hall admitted he had a firearm concealed inside his shorts. Officers recovered an AK-9 semiautomatic handgun and ammunition.

Hall was taken into custody and charged with negligent carrying of a handgun and possession of a firearm in a firearm-free zone.

The Shreveport Police Department said it supports the Second Amendment and the rights of responsible, law-abiding gun owners but noted that officers must investigate situations involving concealed firearms, particularly near schools.

The department said officers recognized that something was not right, took immediate action and safely removed a dangerous weapon from an area near a school. It added that the officers’ proactive policing may have prevented another violent crime in the city.

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The Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office marked several career milestones this morning during a ceremony at the Sheriff’s Command Center in Plain Dealing.

Sheriff Julian Whittington administered the Oath of Affirmation to Deputies Preston Emerson, Ryan German, Zach Hawkins, and Stone Smith, officially welcoming them to the agency. The four deputies will begin their service assigned to one of the Sheriff’s Office correctional facilities.

The ceremony also recognized Dispatcher Rebecca Koglin, who was promoted to Supervisor within the Communications Division and will serve as a shift supervisor.

Sheriff Whittington said, “Whether beginning a career or advancing to a new leadership role, each of these individuals has demonstrated a commitment to serving others. We are proud to recognize their achievements and look forward to their continued success.”

Please join us in congratulating our newest deputies and Supervisor Koglin as they begin the next chapter of their careers with the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office.

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The Bossier Parish Talented Arts Program (TAP) has welcomed Dyra Turner to its team for the 2026-2027 school year.

Turner joins the program’s visual arts department. According to the Talented Arts Program, she will bring unique skills, excitement and creativity to her students, the schools she serves and her colleagues.

Turner is a graduate of C.E. Byrd High School and Northwestern State University of Louisiana, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts.

She said she has had a passion for art from an early age, beginning with doodling in school notebooks and later exhibiting her work in multiple galleries. Through her education and artistic experiences, she said she looks forward to sharing what she has learned with students as they discover their own artistic paths and build confidence in their abilities.

Turner said she is honored to join the Bossier Schools community and is looking forward to a fun and inspiring school year alongside talented young artists.

Her goals for the upcoming year include participating in two or more gallery exhibitions, creating more opportunities for community members of all ages to experience and create art together, and continuing to explore new techniques for creating glass art and mosaics.

Turner also shared three fun facts about herself. She has a twin brother, her favorite television show is “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” and she started her own handmade jewelry business in 2020.

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The Shreveport Regional Arts Council will host Water Day at Caddo Common Park on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026, from 1 to 4 p.m. The free event will feature water slides, slip and slides, face painting, hands-on art activities and other summer activities.

Attendees are encouraged to bring towels, sunscreen and be prepared for an afternoon of outdoor fun. Families and friends are invited to attend as the community wraps up the summer with the free event.

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