Funeral services for Stanley McDonald, 61, were held on Aug. 12 at Rose-Neath Funeral Home in Many. Burial followed at Cassel Cemetery in Converse. 

Stanley was born on November 3, 1963, to John McDonald and Earlene Boudloche in Natchitoches, Louisiana, and passed away on Saturday, August 9, 2025, in Many, Louisiana.

He was preceded in death by his father, John McDonald. He was survived by his mother, Earlene Boudloche and her husband, Huey, of Many, Louisiana; sons, Kasey Currie and wife, Christina, of Many, Louisiana, John Currie of Clearwater, Florida, Jackson Shoalmire of Shreveport, Louisiana, Samuel Balentine of Shreveport, Louisiana, James McDonald of Campti, Louisiana, and Simon Bond and wife, Bailey, of Shreveport, Louisiana; daughters, Kristen Lindsey of Shreveport, Louisiana, Brittany Harris of Shreveport, Louisiana, Leah Ryder and husband, Tyler, of Coushatta, Louisiana, and Kyendyl Tipton and husband, Zach, of Benton, Louisiana; sister, Terry Ann Lewis and husband, Marc, of El Dorado, Arkansas; brothers, Bradley McDonald and wife, Mary, of Noble, Louisiana, and Dean McDonald of Mansfield, Louisiana; along with 18 grandchildren.

Honoring Stanley as pallbearers were Kasey Currie, James McDonald, Jackson Shoalmire, John Currie, Solon Nussman, David Gonzalez, Simon Bond, and Samuel Balentine. Serving as honorary pallbearers were William Myers, Wayne Mouser, Jeremy Brewster, and Samuel Muze.

Funeral services for Frank “Eddie” Remedies, 72, were held on Aug. 11 at 2 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 307 Hammond St. in Zwolle. Burial followed at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Father Timothy Hurd officiated the service.

Eddie was born on April 28, 1953, to Frank Remedies and Johnnie Bell Remedies in Converse, Louisiana, and passed away on Thursday, August 7, 2025, in Many, Louisiana.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Johnnie Bell Remedies. He was survived by his daughters, Cassie Remedies (Omar) and Sandy Meshell; sisters, Karen “Tiny” Parrie (Patrick) and Mary Parrie (Raymond “Mutty”); grandchildren, Alijah Remedies (Kaylei), Destiny Jackson, Aaron Tarpley, and Austin Tarpley; and seven great-grandchildren.

Honoring Eddie as pallbearers were Chad Martinez, Larry Paul Laroux, Howard “Chubby” Meshell, Dewayne Lester, Anthony Remedies, Marcus Sepeda, Keelan Parrie, Keaton Parrie, and Patrick Parrie. Serving as honorary pallbearers were Scott Procell, Robert McTire, and Allen Parrie.

Services and care were provided to the family by Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home.

BOM is continuing our support of the Many High School football program. Pictured left to right: Alan Warfield, Tyler Haskell, BOM’s Daniel Bennett, and Micah Chaney.

Connie Lynn Seegers
April 22, 1956 – August 6, 2025
Services: Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025 at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 9891 Texas Highway in Many.
Visitation: 11 a.m followed by a memorial service at 12 p.m.

Sabine Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or npjnatla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge.)

You may email them to SPJContent@sabineparishjournal.com

UPDATE: August 13, 2025

On August 2, 2025, at approximately 9:42 p.m., Detectives with the Louisiana State Police Bureau of Investigations were requested by the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office (SPSO) to investigate a deputy-involved shooting that occurred on Branam Road.

The preliminary investigation revealed that SPSO Deputies attempted to stop a subject near Many to serve a property ban notice due to a previous incident. The subject failed to stop, and a vehicle pursuit ensued. The pursuit concluded at the subject’s residence, where he exited his vehicle armed with a firearm before retreating inside and barricading himself. Deputies established a perimeter and initiated negotiations in an effort to resolve the situation peacefully. After several hours, the subject exited the residence armed with a firearm and two knives. Deputies gave verbal commands immediately, but the subject refused to surrender his weapons. As a result, a Deputy discharged his firearm at the subject, striking him. Immediately after the shooting, Deputies rendered aid until EMS arrived on the scene. EMS then transported the subject to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Louisiana State Police is the lead investigating agency in this deputy-involved shooting incident. The investigation remains ongoing, with further information to be released in coordination with the Sabine Parish District Attorney’s Office at the appropriate time.

Anyone with information and/or pictures and video is urged to share that information with LSP Detectives. You may anonymously report information through the Louisiana State Police online reporting system by visiting lsp.org and clicking on Report Suspicious or Criminal Activity, or calling the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.

ORIGINAL

REGION 3 NEWS RELEASE
August 12, 2025

Detectives with the Louisiana State Police Bureau of Investigations were requested by the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office (SPSO) to investigate a deputy-involved shooting that occurred on Aug. 2 around 9:42 pm on Branam Road.

One subject was shot and has been pronounced dead. No Deputies were harmed during the incident. Detectives worked to process the scene and gather further information. 

The preliminary investigation revealed that SPSO Deputies attempted to stop a subject near Many to serve a property ban notice due to a previous incident. The subject failed to stop, and a vehicle pursuit ensued. The pursuit concluded at the subject’s residence, where he exited his vehicle armed with a firearm before retreating inside and barricading himself. Deputies established a perimeter and initiated negotiations in an effort to resolve the situation peacefully.

After several hours, the subject exited the residence armed with a firearm and two knives. Deputies gave verbal commands immediately, but the subject refused to surrender his weapons. As a result, a Deputy discharged his firearm at the subject, striking him. Immediately after the shooting, Deputies rendered aid until EMS arrived on the scene. EMS then transported the subject to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Louisiana State Police is the lead investigating agency in this deputy-involved shooting incident. The investigation remains ongoing, with further information to be released in coordination with the Sabine Parish District Attorney’s Office at the appropriate time.

Anyone with information and/or pictures and video is urged to share that information with LSP Detectives. You may anonymously report information through the Louisiana State Police online reporting system by visiting lsp.org and clicking on Report Suspicious or Criminal Activity, or calling the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.

The 2025–2026 school year for Sabine Parish Schools officially began on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, and the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office is reminding motorists to remain cautious as students travel to and from school each day.

With buses back on the roads and children crossing streets before and after class, drivers are urged to stay alert, slow down in school zones, and always stop for school buses when they are loading or unloading students. Louisiana law also strictly prohibits the use of digital devices while driving in a school zone.

Patrol deputies continue to actively monitor traffic in school areas, investigating all reports of speeding or failing to stop for school buses. Violators risk fines, citations, and other legal consequences.

As in previous years, School Resource Officers (SROs) are stationed on every campus in the parish, working to ensure the safety of students, staff, and visitors throughout the school year.

More information about school campuses, safety measures, and traffic laws is available through the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office App and the official website at http://www.sabinesheriff.org.

Sheriff Aaron Mitchell encourages all residents to do their part in keeping Sabine Parish students safe by driving attentively and obeying all school zone laws.

The excitement is building as the town rallies to show off its Tiger spirit with a spirited community-wide competition designed to ignite pride and enthusiasm. Two coveted Spirit Sticks will be awarded in a vibrant contest that invites both businesses and fans to demonstrate their loyalty to the Tigers.

Best Decorated Storefront:

Local businesses are called upon to transform their storefronts into dazzling displays of red, black, and white. From painted windows to waving flags, participants are encouraged to creatively showcase their Tiger pride in hopes of capturing the judges’ attention.

Best Cheer or Chant:

Fans have the opportunity to make some noise by crafting an original 30 to 60-second cheer or chant. These spirited performances should be submitted as videos under the “Spirit & Chant Post” on the Rally in the Alley event page, promising a fun and competitive atmosphere.

The MHS Cheerleaders will serve as judges for both categories, selecting winners based on creativity and spirit. Organizers are encouraging everyone to get loud, be imaginative, and demonstrate the community’s unwavering support for the Tigers.

The town can’t wait to see the energetic displays of pride and cheer as everyone comes together to celebrate their beloved team. Let the Tiger spirit shine bright!

The Louisiana Charter Boat Association (LCBA) will host a Captains’ Meeting and Social for Toledo Bend area captains on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 6 p.m. The gathering will be held next door to Toledo Town & Tackle, located at 11904 Texas Highway, Many, Louisiana.

Following the meeting, attendees will enjoy a social event featuring free food and complimentary Abita beer—the official craft beer of LCBA—along with a raffle for door prizes.

The meeting is open to all Toledo Bend charter captains, regardless of LCBA membership status. Captains are encouraged to bring one guest. Only captains will be eligible to participate in the door prize raffle.

In addition to networking, the event will provide updates on LCBA’s free online booking and marketing opportunities, as well as an overview of ongoing advocacy efforts on behalf of Louisiana charter captains.

Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP by emailing Richard@LouisianaCharterFishing.com.

For more information about the Louisiana Charter Boat Association, call 985-257-3303 or visit LouisianaCharterFishing.com.

Story and photos by KEVIN SHANNAHAN, Journal Services

NATCHITOCHES — Season ticket pickup for the NSU Demons’ upcoming football season was a fun family-friendly event this year as the athletic department held “Fan Fest 25” at the Don Kelly Fieldhouse, last Saturday, August 9.

Several hundred eager Demon fans came to campus to pick up their season tickets, enjoy a superb free jambalaya lunch, and meet the young men of the Northwestern football team. Two talented students from NSU’s Art Department painted children’s faces while members of NSU’ Tri-Sigma sorority helped children make NSU spirit bracelets.

Winnfield’s Deep Water Rehab performed their signature mix of classics and original songs. Frontman Thomas Little is a 2016 NSU alumni as well as a four year player on the Demon football squad as a two-year starting center, and his cousin Eli is a redshirt freshman offensive lineman on the current team.

The Demons’ extended scrimmage was the cornerstone event Saturday and contributed to the palpable sense of excitement surrounding the rebuilding program as Coach Blaine McCorkle embarks upon his second year at the helm. This year’s team has a distinctly Louisiana flavor with many of the players coming from a 150-mile area around Natchitoches. In fact, 81 percent of the players McCorkle and staff have brought in are Louisiana natives.

The Demons will be counting on production from the storied Many High School program. Former All-State Many Tiger star Jeremiah James will play his redshirt freshman season as one of NSU’s top running backs.

Look for Number 25 on the field! Be sure to watch for James this fall and hopefully more Many Made players in future years at Turpin Stadium and on ESPN+ telecasts of all Demons’ games.

The 105 young men in practice currently  are in high spirits and working hard. The intensity is easy to see. This team is gearing up to show progress this season.

The Demons’ home opener is Thursday, August 28 at 7:00 in Turpin Stadium against Alcorn State. For a modest admission price, you can watch some hard-hitting gridiron action, a superb halftime show from the Spirit of Northwestern Marching Band as well as enjoy a family-friendly tailgate before the game.

The Journal Services family is donating access to the photographs from last Saturday’s event. Fans, players and families are welcome to download any photos they wish.

Once upon a time, there was such a thing as courtesy and etiquette with all people who loved to go fishing. Today those two words do not exist on our area lakes and waterways. Why is that? Is it because people don’t care anymore? Or is it because we have raised a generation of anglers who have never been taught the unwritten rules of the water?

People today, I believe, no longer have patience and think that when they are on the lake, there are no rules. We have become such a “me” society that no one thinks about how their actions might affect others on the lake; and to add to that, they don’t care!

I want to take the high road here and give people the benefit of the doubt when it comes to courtesy. But then, you pull up to a boat ramp and watch how people are oblivious as to what is going on around them. They’re in their own little world blocking the entire boat ramp while they get all their junk in the boat.

You would think by now, in 2025, that word would have gotten out about how to manage a boat ramp the proper way. You should load all your gear into the boat AWAY from the ramp, not once you line up to launch your boat.

People talk about road rage and how people have forgotten how to drive. Well, this same rage is now taking place on our area lakes. Boaters with little to no experience are on the water now and have no idea on navigation do’s and don’ts.

Even experienced tournament anglers are doing things they know are not right. The worst and most common thing happening today is one angler cutting off another angler. While I don’t have a problem with sharing a particular stretch of boat docks or a point, there’s an unwritten rule on how you should approach another angler that’s already there.

The rule is if you approach another angler on a stretch of boat docks, you don’t come in on him and start fishing one dock away, especially if his boat is pointing in the direction of the dock you pulled up on. Go down 5 or 6 docks, start there and go away from the angler and fish in the opposite direction … not towards him.

If you pull up on a point with another angler already there, either go to the next point or ask permission to share the point with him. The rule in fishing goes back to what we’ve always heard, “First come, first serve.” You’re always better asking for permission to share a point than to just bulldoze your way in.

So, to all the up-and-coming anglers, listen up! There are two things to always remember. One: Never cut another angler off when he’s fishing a stretch or fishing boat docks. ALWAYS pay attention to the direction the guy is fishing and go the opposite direction!

Two: Never pull up on a point when another angler is already there. If you just insist on trying to fish there, ask the other angler for permission and how he’s going to fish it.

Bottom line, follow the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Good luck, good fishing and hopefully cooler weather is coming soon!

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com.

Christianity is full of beautiful contradictions. Not the kind that make you question your GPS or your life choices after eating gas station sushi, but the kind that make you sit back and say, “Wait… what?” It’s a faith built on polarities—divine paradoxes that somehow make perfect sense if you squint hard enough and drink enough coffee.

Let’s start with the classic: free yet bound. Christians are told they are “free in Christ.” Free from sin, free from death, free from the tyranny of trying to earn God’s love through interpretive dance or excessive casserole-making. But then, in the very next breath, we’re told we’re “slaves to righteousness.” Bound to Christ. Servants of the King. So which is it? Are we liberated spiritual butterflies or holy house elves?

The answer is yes.

It’s like being given a lifetime supply of chocolate and then being told you can only eat it in moderation. You’re free to indulge, but bound by wisdom, love, and the haunting memory of your last dentist bill. In Christian terms, freedom isn’t about doing whatever you want—it’s about finally being able to do what you were created for. Like a fish being “freed” from land and tossed back into water. Sure, it’s wet and smells like algae, but that fish is finally home.

Then there’s the delightful identity crisis of being both saint and sinner. This one really messes with your spiritual résumé. On one hand, you’re a redeemed child of God, washed clean, clothed in righteousness, and probably glowing faintly in the dark. On the other hand, you still yell at slow drivers, binge-watch morally questionable TV shows, and occasionally eat an entire pizza alone while contemplating the Book of Lamentations.

Martin Luther, the original Reformer and part-time beer enthusiast, coined the phrase simul justus et peccator—simultaneously justified and sinful. It’s like being declared legally innocent while still tripping over your own shoelaces in public. You’re a walking contradiction, a spiritual mullet: business in the front (saint), party in the back (sinner).

This duality is not a bug—it’s a feature. It keeps Christians humble. Just when you start feeling holy enough to levitate, you remember that you still need grace like a toddler needs snacks. And just when you feel like a hopeless mess, you’re reminded that God sees you as beloved, chosen, and inexplicably worth saving.

Even Jesus himself embodied paradox. Fully God, fully man. Eternal, yet born in a barn. Sinless, yet hung out with tax collectors and people who probably didn’t wash their hands before dinner. His entire ministry was a masterclass in flipping expectations: the last shall be first, the meek inherit the earth, and the kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed—which, let’s be honest, is not the most majestic metaphor unless you’re really into condiments.

So, what do we do with all these polarities? Embrace them. Laugh at them. Let them stretch your mind and soften your heart. Christianity isn’t a tidy spreadsheet—it’s a divine mystery wrapped in grace, dipped in paradox, and served with a side of humility.

Because in the end, being free yet bound means we’re tethered to love. Being saint and sinner means we’re never too far gone, and never too perfect to need saving. And that, my friends, is the kind of holy tension worth celebrating—even if it makes your brain do theological cartwheels.

The Natchitoches Parish School Board is actively seeking a highly qualified, ethical, and results-driven professional to fill the role of Director of Finance. This key leadership position is responsible for overseeing the financial operations of the district and ensuring strong fiscal management in support of
academic excellence.

The Director of Finance will play a critical role in managing the district’s budgeting, accounting, payroll, purchasing, financial reporting, and audits. As the chief financial officer of the district, this individual will work closely with the Superintendent and School Board to ensure responsible stewardship of public funds and support long-term financial planning aligned with the district’s strategic goals.

Ideal candidates will bring a strong background in public finance, proven leadership, and a deep understanding of governmental accounting practices and Louisiana school finance regulations. A bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field is required, along with a minimum of five years of financial management experience—preferably in an educational or public sector setting. A CPA or master’s degree is preferred.

Key responsibilities include:

Developing and managing the district’s annual budget
Overseeing payroll, purchasing, grants, and financial reporting
Ensuring compliance with state, federal, and local financial regulations
Supervising business office staff and maintaining effective internal controls
Supporting district-wide planning and resource allocation

Interested candidates can view the full job description and apply online at: http://www.npsb.la/page/careers.

Evelyn Ryan worked hard helping her husband, Leo, provide for their struggling family. Evelyn and Leo married in 1936 and had ten children together. Since 1943, Leo had been employed by the Defiance Screw Machine Products, but his salary usually failed to meet the needs of such a large family. Leo purportedly turned to alcohol to quell the stresses of their financial struggles which only worsened the situation. Evelyn had too many household obligations to take on a job which required her to be away from home, but she needed a way to earn money. By the early 1950s, Evelyn and Leo’s older children were nearing their teenage years, and the family’s financial struggles along with Leo’s drinking was getting worse. One day in September 1953, Evelyn took a momentary break from her endless chores to read the newspaper when she saw an advertisement for a Western Auto Bike Contest.
Evelyn had a background in writing. While in junior high, her step-grandmother, Josephine Etchie, who was the editor of the Sherwood Chronicle, got Evelyn an after-school job as a typesetter for the newspaper. In 1931, Evelyn was the valedictorian of Sherwood High School. Soon after graduation, she became a columnist at the newspaper. She worked at the newspaper until she quit to take care of her growing family.

She read the Western Auto Bike Contest information again and learned that she could enter by completing the phrase in 25 words or less, “I like the all-new ‘X-53 Super’ Western Flyer bicycle because…” The ad announced that the “winner’s family gets all this: $5,000 cash and bike for child, plus 15-h.p. outboard motor for dad, plus automatic washer and dryer for mom!” While Evelyn returned to her endless household chores, she mulled over her entry. Finally, she completed the phrase on the entry form, “brand new ideas about safety, service, sleekness, combined with Western Flyer’s old reliable construction, make ‘X-53 Super’ a standout in ANY bike rack.”

The Wester Auto Bike Contest was just the first of many writing contests that Evelyn won. In 1961, she won a 1961 Triumph TR3 sports car, a Seeburg jukebox, and a trip for two to New York City to appear on Merv Griffin’s Saturday Prom television show. She quickly sold the car and jukebox to pay bills, but she and her son Bruce enjoyed their trip to New York. Evelyn won about one in every four contests she entered. She won kitchen appliances, TVs, watches, sports equipment, and a host of other items. She won so many contests that she earned the nickname the Contest Queen.

At first glance, it appeared that the Ryans were rolling in money, but the large family remained impoverished. In 1965, unbeknownst to Evelyn, Leo took out a second mortgage on their house at 801Washington Avenue in Defiance, Ohio. Evelyn learned about the second mortgage when she received a final notice from the bank. Unless they could come up with $3500, they would be homeless. Evelyn read about a contest held by Dr. Pepper in which contestants were asked to complete the following limerick: “With Dr. Pepper, the flavor that’s in. It’s distinctive and bright. It’s lively and light.” Evelyn completed the form with, “There’s no time like NOW to begin!” Out of 250,000 entries, Evelyn won the grand prize, which was a two-week trip for two to Switzerland, a new Ford Mustang, his-and-hers gold Longines wristwatches, and $3500 in cash. Evelyn received the cash payment on the day before they were to be evicted from their home.

Sources:

1. Bryan Times, August 1, 1983, p.3.

2. The Blade, August 31, 1998, p.16.

3. W.H. Chip Gross, “Contest Queen,” February 1, 2022, Ohio Cooperative Living, https://ohiocoopliving.com/contest-queen.

Funeral services for PaPa Sepulvado, 34, was held on  Monday, August 11, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 307 Hammond St., Zwolle, Louisiana. A burial followed at St. Joseph Cemetery. 

PaPa was born on January 30, 1991 to Ricky Dale Sepulvado and Cheryl Renee Sepulvado in Shreveport, Louisiana and passed away on Tuesday, August 5, 2025 in Shreveport, Louisiana.

PaPa enjoyed many of the simpler things in life such as relaxing on the porch talking to his mama, sister, and brother. One of his favorite things was boiling crawfish with all the fixings, making homemade sausage, or BBQ-ing for his family and friends. When he wasn’t watching WWE Wrestling, you could find him fishing or riding on the back roads. He had a passion for working on his mud trucks and was always happiest when he was mud doggin’. Through his journey in life, PaPa never met a stranger. He would carry on conversations with friends and strangers. He was willing to help those around him anyway he could; if that meant taking the shirt off his back to give to them, he would do it. He always looked forward to arm wrestling every October at the Zwolle Tamale Fiesta. Above all else, his greatest love was playing with his children, nephews, and niece.

PaPa was preceded in death by his father, Ricky Dale Sepulvado; grandfathers, Sammie Garcie and Teofilo Sepulvado. He is survived by his wife, Darlene Campbell of Zwolle, Louisiana; mother, Renee Sepulvado and significant other, Todd Meshell, of Zwolle, Louisiana; grandmother, Margie Garcie of Zwolle, Louisiana and Lois Sepulvado of Zwolle, Louisiana; son, Rylan Dale Sepulvado of Zwolle, Louisiana; daughter, Kaytelynn Faith Sepulvado of Zwolle, Louisiana; sisters, Angel Rickay Sepulvado and significant other, Kirk Buster, of Zwolle, Louisiana and Miranda Bliss and husband, Ray, of Zwolle, Louisiana; brother, Dillon Seth Sepulvado and significant other, Elizabeth Martinez, of Zwolle, Louisiana; and a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Honoring PaPa as pallbearers were Wayne Sepulvado, Clint Sepulvado, Steve Longoria, Kurt Sepulvado, Joey Garcie, Jr., Timmy Meshell, Matt Wolfe and Justin Parrie. Serving as honorary pallbearers are Levi Sepulvado, Eli Long, Cree Long, Alli Grace Sepulvado, Joshua Hugh Meshell, Abby Meshell, Roxie Wolfe, Christina Garcie, Brianna Brandon, Weston Garcie, Aalecea Cagle, Isiah Bliss, and Layla McBride.

The family would like to thank everyone for their much-appreciated thoughts, prayers, and support. We love all of ya’ll from the bottom of our hearts.

Services and care were provided to the family by Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home.

Funeral services for Mary Lou Sepulvado, 83, were held on Friday, August 8, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 307 Hammond St., Zwolle, Louisiana. A burial followed at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. 

Mary was born on December 21, 1941 to Antonio Carrera and Genoveva Carrera in Austwell-Tivoli, Texas and passed away on Saturday, August 2, 2025 in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Mary is preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Sepulvado; special friend, Steve Melvin Procell; parents, Genoveva and Antonio Carrera; son, John Wesley Sepulvado; grandson, Joseph Anthony Sepulvado; sister, Anita Morales; and brothers, Tony Carrera, Johnny Carrera, Raymond Carrera, Joe Carrera, and Sonny Carrera. She is survived by her daughters, Shirley Sepulvado of Zwolle, Louisiana and Marilyn Hastings of Waldorf, Maryland; daughter-in-law, Robin Sepulvado-Whittington of Converse, Louisiana; sister, Delia Guijosa; grandchildren, Wesley (Shellie), Karla (Kenton), Michael (Amelia), John (Laurie-Anne), Lisa (Sherman), Madison (Brandon), Bryce, Geroge Jr., Melissa, and Leloni; great-grandchildren, Maci, Kaylie, Hadli, Madeline, Elvy, Atreus, Ban, Hunter, Jaxton, Dayvie-Lynn, Weston, Emma, Summer Paige, Luke, Eli, Katilyn, Kaleb, Julie, Korbyn, John, and Lennon; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Honoring Mary as pallbearers were Michael Morgan, John Sepulvado, Wesley Sepulvado, Eli Sepulvado, Benny Boy Rameriz, and Brady Broussard.

Services and care were provided to the family by Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home.

August 13 is a day steeped in historical and pop culture moments—but perhaps none as delightfully irreverent as the debut of South Park on Comedy Central in 1997. What started as a series of crude animated shorts shot to fame and evolved into one of the most iconic, boundary-pushing shows in television history.

On that summer night, four foul-mouthed third-graders—Stan, Kyle, Cartman, and Kenny—introduced themselves to the world through the show’s debut episode, Cartman Gets an Anal Probe. With shock value dialed to eleven, the humor was raw, unfiltered, and cartoonishly absurd. That first episode, and many that followed, quickly established South Park as the new heavyweight champion of satirical animation, a legacy that still resonates after more than two decades.

The show, known for causing controversy, has also drawn reactions from figures associated with the Trump administration, some of whom have criticized recent episodes of South Park for satirizing President Donald Trump. In the episodes, a Trump-like character is portrayed in absurd scenarios, culminating in a scene that depicts him “getting in bed with the devil.” While the show’s creators have long targeted political figures across the spectrum, supporters of the president have expressed frustration over what they see as an intentional effort to demean him.

From skewering the news headlines of the day to ranting about everything from politics to pop culture, South Park redefined what an animated series could do. Its biting satire, theatricality, and fearless commentary became staples of its identity. Over time, the show pushed the envelope in storytelling, garnering awards, notoriety, and a die-hard (if often offended) fan base.

By lampooning social norms and taking on topics most shows wouldn’t dare touch, South Park broke barriers—and nerves—with gleeful irreverence and surprising insight. Creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone turned animated bathroom humor into a platform that dissected cultural absurdities with surgical wit.

In 2025, South Park is more than a TV show—it’s a cultural phenomenon, a mirror for societal satire, and often a lightning rod for debate.

Happy Anniversary, South Park. It’s your world. The rest of us just live in it.

Kylie Donay Ebarb
July 9, 1978 – August 10, 2025
Visitation: August 15, 2025 from 10:30 AM until  at 2:00 PM at Warren Meadows Funeral Services: August 15, 2025 after visitation at Warren Meadows Funeral Home Chapel

Sabine Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or npjnatla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge.)

You may email them to SPJContent@sabineparishjournal.com

As the 2025–2026 school year approaches, the Sabine Parish School Board is reminding families that the Student Progress Center (SPC) is now more accessible than ever—available through both the district and individual school websites, as well as the JCampus Student mobile app.

These digital tools allow parents and students to stay fully informed with real-time access to:

Attendance records
Grades and report cards
School announcements and news
Disciplinary actions
Notifications and more

“Our goal is to strengthen communication between schools and families,” the district said in a statement. “The Student Progress Center and JCampus app help ensure that everyone stays on the same page.”

Families with existing SPC accounts can log in directly through the app. New users are encouraged to download the JCampus Student app and follow the on-screen instructions to create an account and link it to their student’s information.

The district is gearing up to welcome students back to class on Monday, August 12, and encourages all families to stay connected and informed through the digital platforms.

For more information or assistance with setup, visit the Sabine Parish School Board website or contact your child’s school.

On August 2, 2025, at approximately 9:42 p.m., Detectives with the Louisiana State Police Bureau of Investigations were requested by the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office to investigate a deputy-involved shooting that occurred on Branam Road. Detectives are working to process the scene and gather further information.

One subject was shot and has been pronounced dead. No deputies were harmed during the incident. This is an active investigation; further information will be released when it becomes available.

Anyone with information and/or pictures and video is urged to share that information with LSP Detectives. You may anonymously report information through the Louisiana State Police online reporting system by visiting lsp.org and clicking on Report Suspicious or Criminal Activity, or calling the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.

Over my many years of fishing lakes all across this country, I’ve had a few bad encounters with dock owners, but never had I been told by a public official that I couldn’t fish in a particular area. Today, I’ll tell you about an incident that I experienced on a public body of water in Texas.

With every passing day, anglers’ rights to fish and navigate certain bodies of water is being threatened by different activist groups like PETA (People for Ethical Treat of Animals).

For some reason, people who live on a public lake and own a dock think they have the right to tell an angler that he can’t fish around their dock. But legally, anglers can fish there because the dock itself is on a public body of water. You can own the dock, but you don’t own the water underneath it.

This is a concept so many homeowners who live on a public body of water seem to have trouble comprehending. Look, if you don’t want people to fish your dock, then don’t build your dream home on the lake! I too live on a lake and never have I told any angler that they can’t fish my dock, even though I have plenty of brush (that I put there) that holds fish.

But on a hot summer day on Lake Palestine a few weeks ago, I was fishing a two-day tournament. On Day 1 I weighed in 15.80 pounds of bass and was sitting in fourth place overall.

Let’s not forget that on Day 1 I lost a fish that was well over seven pounds off one specific boat dock. When the fish came off, I thought to myself that I might be able to catch that fish again on Day 2 since I did not get a good hookset on that fish.

As Day 2 rolled around, it was apparent that the fish just were not biting the way they were on Day 1. So, with three fish in the live well at 10 that morning, I decided to go back to the dock where I had lost the seven-pounder the day before.

Running across the lake and into the pocket where this certain dock was located, I shut down and jumped up on the front deck to drop the trolling motor into the water. It was at this time that two Texas Game Wardens approached me. At first, I thought they were pulling up to do a routine boat and license check.

But no, that was not the case, as they proceeded to tell me that the pocket I wanted to fish was off limits for the day. At first, I asked if they were kidding, but they begrudgingly told me that due to a party on the main lake point, the entire pocket (1/4 mile long) was off limits for the day and that I would not be allowed to fish there.

Standing on the front deck of my boat and in shock that I was having to leave because of a party, this did not sit well with me. I expressed my displeasure with the wardens’ request. They fully understood as they reiterated that this pocket was off limits.

I could tell from the very beginning of my encounter with the wardens that they did not want to tell me this. But once again, it became evident that whoever was hosting the party on the point had a lot of financial influence. If there’s one thing that still holds true today, it is if you have the money, you can rule the world — or shut down a lake!

After returning home, I did a little research and found out that in order to eliminate any section of a public lake, you must have a permit signed by the local lake authority before it’s legal. Knowing this earlier, I could have requested to see the permit.

But being the good guy that I am, I just cooperated and moved on to a different part of the lake, even though six of my best boat docks were in this pocket that I was not allowed to fish on Day 2.

Did this cost me a win? Probably not, but it did possibly cost me a few places in the final standings as I dropped from 4th to 9th while being unable to fish my best six docks.

These confrontations are becoming more common place on lakes and waterways all across the country. It’s up to us as anglers to stand up for our rights to fish. So, the next time you’re confronted or being told a part of the lake is off limits, make sure to ask and see the permit that was granted by the local lake authority. Or maybe asked to see the cash that was given in order to block off a part of the lake!

‘Til next time, good luck, good fishing and enjoy your time on the water, while you still can!

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com.

After two years of collecting aluminum coke tabs, Sabine Parish 4-H has made a heartfelt delivery to help families in need. Local 4-H member Caleb Corley personally delivered the tabs to the Ronald McDonald House in Little Rock, Arkansas, marking the culmination of the organization’s long-running community service effort.

The donation supports Ronald McDonald House Charities, which provides housing and resources to families with children undergoing medical treatment—allowing them to remain close to their loved ones during difficult times.

“This contribution helps ensure that families are able to stay together and connected while caring for their children in need,” said a representative from Ronald McDonald House. “We’re incredibly grateful for the generosity and dedication of the youth and volunteers in Sabine Parish.”

The aluminum tab program is one of many simple, sustainable ways supporters can assist RMHC. Proceeds from recycling the tabs help fund essential services for families, including lodging, meals, and emotional support.

Sabine Parish 4-H’s efforts are a strong reminder of how small acts—when done consistently—can have a big impact.

The copier at Trinity Methodist Church is named “Grace.” She is a busy girl. Printing church newsletters, bulletins, posters, letters, reports, and the miscellaneous Sunday school handout. She prints in color. She collates. She staples. She prints various sizes of paper. She also lies!

There is a moment in every office worker’s life when they stare at a blinking printer screen that boldly declares, “Paper Jam in Tray 2”—even though Tray 2 is empty, pristine, and untouched. You open the compartment, check every roller, and still the printer insists, “Paper Jam.” You sigh, mutter something unholy under your breath and wonder if church office machines can be possessed.

Welcome to the modern workplace, where technology lies, coffee spills, and emails are sent to the wrong “John.” But what if these everyday mishaps were just annoyances? What if they are subtle reminders of a deeper truth—of God’s mercy and forgiveness in the midst of our human error?

Let’s start with the class: knocking over your coffee just minutes before a big meeting. The puddle spreads across your desk like a slow-motion disaster movie. Important papers are soaked, your keyboard is sticky, and your nerves are frayed. You feel foolish, clumsy, and frustrated.

But then a coworker walks by, grabs paper towels and helps you clean up. No judgment. Just grace.

This is mercy in motion. Just as we make messes in life—through poor decisions, careless words, or selfish actions—God doesn’t stand over us wagging a finger. He kneels beside us, offering help, restoration, and a fresh start. The Psalmist reminded us, “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love.” Even when we spill, he stays.

Our printer, Grace, lied to the Membership Secretary. She was printing a report for me, and it is a very large report. The printer sent her a message that the report could not be printed. She hit the button twice and the same response appeared on her computer screen. She walked down the hall to look Grace in the face and there on the printer tray were both reports.

I guess Grace just wanted some personal attention.

Jesus’ message was consistent, the expectation for His followers is righteousness. We are to live rightly related to God and rightly related to fellow human beings. In this task, we all fail. In essence, we lie!

The remedy for our sins, past, present and future is the grace of Jesus Christ. It is a costly grace paid by Jesus’ death on the cross. It is a free grace given to those who seek that grace through faith.

The words are still true.

“Amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me.

I once was lost but now am found, was blind but now I see.”

No lie!