Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Deputy Courtney Brandon has completed her Level I Peace Officer Standards and Training certification and has been assigned as a School Resource Officer at Pleasant Hill High School.

Sheriff Aaron Mitchell announced that Brandon recently graduated from the Lafourche Sheriff’s Regional P.O.S.T. Academy in Thibodaux, where she completed the 12-week Level I transition academy.

Brandon received 300 hours of training covering areas including legal instruction, physical training, firearms, active shooter response, officer safety tactics, radar and lidar operations, and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing.

Earlier this year, Brandon earned her P.O.S.T. Level II certification, but continued her training with the goal of becoming a School Resource Officer.

Brandon has worked at the Sabine Parish Women’s Jail for approximately a year and a half. According to the Sheriff’s Office, she is one of only a few female deputies to earn Level I P.O.S.T. certification while employed by the department.

Following completion of the academy, Brandon was assigned to Pleasant Hill High School, where she will serve as a School Resource Officer under Capt. James Campbell.

Mitchell commended Brandon for her dedication and commitment to the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office and the citizens of the parish.

Brandon was pictured following her accomplishment with Training Deputy Greg Sculthorpe and CID Capt. Anthony Lowe Jr.

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The South Sabine Fire District is inviting the community to join local first responders for its annual 9/11 Memorial Walk on Friday, Sept. 11, honoring the lives lost and the sacrifices made during the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

The memorial walk will begin at 8 a.m. at Gandy Baptist Church and is open to the public.

Firefighters will be joined by first responders from across Sabine Parish as they walk in remembrance of the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives on 9/11, including the firefighters, law enforcement officers and other emergency personnel who responded that day.

Organizers are encouraging families, friends and community members to participate and walk alongside firefighters, law enforcement officers and EMS personnel in a show of remembrance and solidarity.

“Together, we remember. Together, we honor. Together, we will never forget,” the South Sabine Fire District shared in announcing the event.

The annual walk provides Sabine Parish residents an opportunity to reflect on one of the most consequential days in American history while also recognizing the courage and sacrifice of first responders, both then and now.

Community members of all ages are welcome to attend.

South Sabine Fire District Annual 9/11 Memorial Walk

Date: Friday, Sept. 11

Time: 8 a.m.

Location: Gandy Baptist Church

Who can attend: Everyone is welcome

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SABINE PARISH, La. — Sabine Parish will see continued hot temperatures along with daily chances for showers and thunderstorms through the Labor Day weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

Wednesday will be partly sunny with a 50% chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 1 p.m. The high will reach around 93 degrees, while heat index values could climb as high as 103 degrees. Winds will be calm before becoming southeast around 5 mph. Wednesday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 72.

Thursday will be sunny and hot with a high near 96 degrees and a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. A chance of thunderstorms will continue before 7 p.m. Thursday night, followed by mostly clear conditions and a low around 73.

Friday will bring a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Otherwise, conditions will be mostly sunny and hot with a high near 95. Friday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 72.

Rain chances increase again Saturday, with a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Storms will be possible after 1 p.m., while temperatures climb to around 95 degrees under mostly sunny skies. Saturday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 73.

Sunday will be sunny and hot with a high near 96 and a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunday night will be mostly clear with a low around 73.

The hottest temperature of the extended forecast is expected on Labor Day, when the high could reach 98 degrees. The day will be sunny and hot with a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Overall, Sabine Parish can expect afternoon highs ranging from 93 to 98 degrees through Labor Day, with scattered showers and thunderstorms possible each day. Wednesday and Saturday currently carry the highest rain chances at 50%, while Wednesday’s heat index could reach 103 degrees.

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Dove hunters across Louisiana can officially head back into the fields this weekend as the state’s 2026 dove hunting season opens Saturday, Sept. 5, according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

The season is divided into North and South zones, with each featuring three hunting segments extending into January.

In the North Zone, dove hunting will be open Sept. 5-27, Oct. 10-Nov. 15 and Dec. 19-Jan. 17, 2027.

The South Zone will be open Sept. 5-20, Oct. 17-Nov. 29 and Dec. 12-Jan. 10, 2027.

Hunters 18 and older must have a basic Louisiana hunting license and Harvest Information Program certification, commonly known as HIP certification, to participate. Youth hunters age 17 and younger are not required to have a hunting license or HIP certification to hunt dove.

For opening day, LDWF will have lease fields available in DeRidder and Colfax. Dove hunting opportunities will also be available on several Wildlife Management Areas across Louisiana.

The statewide opener marks the beginning of a popular fall tradition for Louisiana sportsmen, with dove season often providing an opportunity for families and friends to gather in the field as hunting activity begins to pick up across the state.

Hunters are encouraged to review all applicable regulations before heading out and to make firearm and field safety a priority throughout the season.

The 2026 dove season officially opens statewide Saturday, Sept. 5.

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Rodeo action is returning to Sabine Parish this September as the 9th Annual Benton Johnson Memorial Rodeo prepares for two nights of competition, entertainment and family fun in Many.

The 2026 rodeo will be held Friday and Saturday, Sept. 25-26, with performances beginning at 7:30 p.m. each night at the arena located at 115 Fairgrounds Road in Many.

Admission is $10, while children 5 and younger are admitted free. Advance tickets will be available at Family Farm & Garden for $10 and include admission to both the Sabine Parish Fair and the rodeo.

The weekend festivities will extend beyond the arena. A Youth Rodeo is scheduled for Thursday at 7 p.m., with books opening at 5:30 p.m. On Saturday, a rodeo parade will travel through downtown Many beginning at 1 p.m.

Saturday evening will also feature live entertainment from Sage Johnson and Jake Williams beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the arena. A rodeo ticket is required for the performance.

Rodeo clown Jake Britt will also be part of this year’s event.

Local competitors will have opportunities to get involved through Hometown Barrels and Hometown Team Roping. Those interested can contact Katie at 318-652-2553 for additional information.

The Benton Johnson Memorial Rodeo has become part of the annual fair and rodeo tradition in Sabine Parish, bringing competitors and spectators together for a weekend of Western entertainment.

With the rodeo, parade, live music and youth competition all on the schedule, organizers are inviting residents to make plans to head to Many and enjoy the festivities Sept. 25-26.

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Say hello to Deanna Hilliard, Mortgage Loan Processor, and the newest member of the BOM Bank family! Deanna is from Many, LA, where she graduated from Many High School. She now lives in Marthaville with her family. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, boating on the lake, and watching dirt track racing and NASCAR. She’s also a proud dog mom to three pups! In fact, Deanna says she spends just as much money on her dogs as she does her kids—after all, they’re her children too! Please join us in giving Deanna a warm welcome to BOM Bank! We’re excited to have her on the team and can’t wait to see all that she will accomplish!

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Gaylon Earl Faircloth

Funeral services for Gaylon Earl Faircloth, 65, were held on Monday, August 31, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at San Patricio Baptist Church, 41 San Patricio Rd., Converse, Louisiana. A visitation was held on Sunday, August 30, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 9891 Texas Hwy, Many, Louisiana. A burial followed the service at Cassel Cemetery, 993 San Patricio Rd., Converse, Louisiana. Officiated by Brother Danny Asbell and Brother Kyle Clayton.

Gaylon was born on December 14, 1960 to Ocie Lee Faircloth and Corine Marie Faircloth in Zwolle, Louisiana and passed away on Wednesday, August 26, 2026 in Zwolle, Louisiana.

Gaylon was preceded in death by his parents, Ocie and Corine Faircloth and brothers, Tommy Faircloth and Allen Faircloth.

He is survived by his wife, Carol Mora of Zwolle, Louisiana; sons, Matthew Faircloth and wife, Elsa of Zwolle, Louisiana and Gerald “Buddy” Whittington and wife, Morgan Miller of Bossier City, Louisiana; sisters, Marie Springer of Converse, Louisiana, Joyce Patrick of Many, Louisiana, and Kathy Sepulvado of Noble, Louisiana; brothers, Ricky Faircloth and wife, Janet of Zwolle, Louisiana, Johnny Faircloth and wife, Donna of Converse, Louisiana, and James Faircloth and wife, Kristie of Zwolle, Louisiana; 8 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild.

Honoring Gaylon as pallbearers were Ricky Burnett, Presley Faircloth, Carter Faircloth, Mason Faircloth, Cody Pattison, Joey Williams, and Mateo Faircloth. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Shanna Ebarb, Bayley Williams, Emilio Ramos, and Carlos Ramos.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Superior Hospice for their care and devotion; especially Shanna Ebarb and Bayley Williams.

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

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Joseph “Joe” Zammit, Sr.

Funeral services for Joseph Emile Zammit, Sr., 94, was held on Saturday, August 29, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Terence Catholic Mission, 44847 Highway 191, Florien, Louisiana. A Rosary began at 10:45 a.m. A burial followed at Zammit Family Cemetery, 63 Emerald Dr., Many, Louisiana. Officiated by Father Timothy Hurd.

Joe was born on November 29, 1931 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana to Walter Robert Zammit and Edna Katherine Zammit and passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2026 in Many, Louisiana.

Joe was a long-time resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana before retiring to Toledo Bend in 1998. He married his wife, Mary Alice, on December 29, 1951 and worked for Gulf States Utilities for 42 years, working his way up to Plant Superintendent. He was a parishioner of St. Terence Catholic Mission in Florien, Louisiana.

Joe enjoyed hunting, fishing, and gardening. Family was everything to Joe and he most enjoyed spending time with them. He leaves a legacy of love and will be deeply missed and always cherished.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Edna Zammit; his wife of 58 years, Mary Alice Hudson Zammit; an infant son, Mark Keith; 3 brothers; 3 sisters; grandchildren, Ty Joseph Zammit and Kimberly Zammit Gautreau.

He is survived by his children, Joey Zammit of Toledo Bend, Louisiana, Tim Zammit and wife, Pam of Lake Charles, Louisiana, and Margaret Zammit and fiancé, Don Gauthreaux of Toledo Bend, Louisiana; 7 grandchildren, JoAllison Rodriguez, Kori Schexnyder, Nicole Zammit, Megan Guillory, Keely Davidson, and Rayne Skelton; as well as 18 great-grandchildren.

Honoring Joe as pallbearers were Jo Henry Rodriguez, John Parker, John Schexnyder, David Gautreau, Chris Davidson, and Scott Guillory.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made I honor of his wife to the Kidney Cancer Foundation at www.kidneycancer.org or 1988 Momentum Place, Chicago, IL 60689-5319.

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

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Sue Beasley Manning
June 18, 1943 — August 25, 2026
Visitation: Saturday September 5 from 1:00 – 2:00 pm at Warren Meadows funeral home
Services: Saturday September 5 at 2:00 pm at Warren Meadows funeral home

Sabine Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access.

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Two Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office School Resource Officer supervisors recently completed advanced leadership training designed to prepare law enforcement professionals for command-level responsibilities.

Sheriff Aaron Mitchell announced that Capt. James Campbell and Lt. Steven Myers attended the FBI-Law Enforcement Executive Development Association Command Leadership Institute at the Humble Independent School District Police Department in Humble, Texas.

The intensive program is designed for law enforcement leaders seeking to strengthen the skills needed for command-level assignments. The course follows FBI-LEEDA’s “Cops Teaching Cops” professional development model and emphasizes practical leadership strategies that can be applied within law enforcement agencies.

Training topics included command leadership, effective and creative team building, ethical decision-making, resilient leadership and techniques for supervising challenging employees.

Campbell and Myers also examined the roles of credibility, accountability and motivation in effective supervision while receiving instruction on liability and disciplinary issues that law enforcement leaders may encounter.

According to the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office, the skills gained through the program will assist both officers in their daily supervisory roles within the agency’s School Resource Officer program.

Mitchell thanked the Humble ISD Police Department for its hospitality while hosting the officers for the training.

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ZWOLLE, La. — The Zwolle Museum on the Bend has temporarily closed its doors while repairs are made to address water damage and air conditioning issues at the facility.

Museum officials announced Aug. 20 that the closure is expected to last for the next few weeks while the problems are addressed.

A specific reopening date has not yet been announced.

Despite the temporary closure, museum officials are already looking ahead to a special exhibit planned for October.

The upcoming exhibit will celebrate 50 years of the Zwolle Tamale Fiesta, highlighting the history and traditions surrounding one of Sabine Parish’s best-known annual celebrations.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to watch for additional information regarding the museum’s reopening and the October exhibit as details become available.

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SABINE PARISH, La. — Sabine Parish will remain hot through the week, with chances for showers and thunderstorms developing Wednesday night and continuing through Friday before drier conditions return for the weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

Wednesday will be sunny and hot with a high near 99 degrees. Winds will be calm before becoming southwest around 5 mph. Wednesday night will bring a 30 percent chance of precipitation, with showers and thunderstorms possible before 10 p.m. and a chance of showers between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m. The low will be around 75.

Thursday will bring a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Otherwise, conditions will be mostly sunny and hot with a high near 95. Thursday night will be mostly cloudy with a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m., followed by a slight chance of showers. The low will be around 72.

Friday will be mostly sunny and hot with a high near 96 degrees and a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Friday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 72.

Saturday will be sunny and hot with a high near 97. Saturday night will be mostly clear with a low around 72.

Sunday will continue the sunny and hot pattern with a high near 97 degrees.

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MANY, LA – Bossier Parish Community College and the BPCC Foundation are proud to announce Vincent Korb as the recipient of the Robert Byles Endowed Scholarship in Electrician Technology at BPCC Sabine Valley.

The scholarship honors the life of Mr. Byles, who passed away in February 2017, and is awarded to students who are enrolled in the Electrician Technology program at BPCC’s Sabine Valley campus.

Korb is currently pursuing a Technical Diploma in Electrician Technology. During the scholarship presentation, Mrs. Jennifer Byles expressed her pride in his accomplishments and encouraged him to continue his education by pursuing an Associate Degree after completing his diploma.

Cynthia Johnson, Sabine Valley Assistant Campus Administrator, said the scholarship provides valuable support for students while continuing the legacy of Robert Byles.

“We are grateful to Mrs. Byles for her continued support of our students through this scholarship,” Johnson said. “It is a meaningful way to honor the memory of her late husband, Robert Byles, while helping students overcome financial barriers as they pursue their education and prepare for their future careers.”

The awarding of the Robert Byles Endowed Scholarship is a demonstration of BPCC’s commitment to providing quality education and opportunities for students pursuing careers in high-demand technical fields. For more information about the BPCC Foundation, contact Susannah Stinson, J.D., Associate Vice Chancellor for Institutional Advancement, at (318) 678 6000.

BPCC offers associate degrees, technical diplomas, Career and Technical Certificates in pathways such as healthcare, computer technology, manufacturing, business, and general studies. For more information on any of the College’s programs and to apply, visit www.bpcc.edu. Detailed information regarding applying, registration, tuition costs and deadlines can be found online at www.bpcc.edu/admissions or contact the BPCC Admissions Office at (318) 678-6004 or admissions@bpcc.edu.

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The Zwolle Junior High boys basketball team brought home a first-place finish following a strong showing at the Ebarb Junior High Basketball Tournament.

The fifth- and sixth-grade Hawks captured first place in the tournament, earning recognition from Zwolle Elementary School for their performance on the court.

School officials congratulated the players for the hard work, teamwork and determination that helped lead the team to the tournament title.

“Your hard work, teamwork, determination, and Hawk Pride truly paid off,” the school stated. “We are so proud of you!”

The championship finish added another accomplishment for the young Zwolle athletes as they represented their school and community at the Ebarb tournament.

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Hunters hoping for an opportunity to participate in Louisiana’s 2026 black bear hunting season have only a few days left to enter the state’s permit lottery.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is reminding hunters that the deadline to apply for the 2026 Louisiana Black Bear Hunting Lottery is Friday, Aug. 28.

This year, 42 black bear tags will be available through the lottery, with hunting opportunities offered across all Louisiana Black Bear Management Areas.

The 2026 black bear hunting season is scheduled for Dec. 5-20.

Applicants must have a valid Louisiana black bear hunting license before submitting a lottery application. The application fee is $50 and is non-refundable.

Bear harvest permits are divided into three categories: WMA, Private Landowner and General.

Hunters selected through the lottery will also be required to attend an LDWF bear hunter training course before participating in the hunt. Training courses are scheduled for Oct. 16, 17, 22 and 23. According to LDWF, failure to attend the required training could result in forfeiture of the permit.

Louisiana’s black bear hunting season returned in 2024 following decades without a regulated season. The hunt is managed through a limited permit system as part of the state’s black bear management program.

Hunters interested in entering the 2026 lottery should complete the application process before the Aug. 28 deadline.

Additional information, eligibility requirements and application instructions are available through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ Louisiana Black Bear Hunting Lottery webpage.

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Louisiana residents planning to take to the roads or waterways during the upcoming Labor Day weekend are being reminded to drive and boat sober as law enforcement agencies prepare to increase impaired-driving patrols across the state.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries hosted the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission’s “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” press conference on Monday, Aug. 24, in the Joe L. Herring Room in Baton Rouge.

LDWF Enforcement Division Col. Stephen Clark joined representatives from several law enforcement agencies to emphasize that impaired operation of vehicles and vessels will not be tolerated. Officials said DUI enforcement patrols will increase during the upcoming Labor Day holiday weekend.

“During Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over, Louisiana Game Wardens will join our law enforcement partners in maintaining a visible presence statewide,” Clark said. “While our primary responsibility will be on the waterways, we are part of the same coordinated effort to prevent impaired operation and save lives. Through that coordinated effort, we can carry a consistent safety message from Louisiana’s roadways to its waterways.”

Louisiana game wardens will focus much of their enforcement efforts on the state’s waterways, where increased recreational boating is expected during the holiday weekend.

The statewide campaign also involves agencies responsible for highway and local traffic enforcement.

Other speakers at Monday’s press conference included Louisiana State Police Superintendent Col. Frank Besson, New Orleans Police Department Capt. Anthony Micheu, Baton Rouge Police Chief Thomas “TJ” Morse Jr., Lafourche Parish Sheriff Craig Webre and Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Executive Director Lisa Freeman.

Officials are urging residents to make plans for a sober driver before drinking and reminding boat operators that impaired operation on the water can have serious consequences just as it can on the highway.

The message from participating agencies heading into the holiday weekend is simple: Drive sober. Boat sober. Help keep Louisiana’s roads and waterways safe.

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Many Fall Fest 2026 is set for Saturday, Oct. 17, bringing an evening of games, food, entertainment and fall activities to the Many Town Square.

The annual event will be held from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at the Town Square, located across from the Many Police Department.

Fall Fest will feature carnival-style games and activities, food trucks and the annual Chili Cookoff Fundraiser, sponsored by Community Bank of Louisiana. Carnival-style entertainment will also be featured, sponsored by Sabine Parish America 250.

As part of the ongoing America 250 celebration, organizers will hold a “Spirits of 1776” Costume Contest. Participants are encouraged to dress as an American historical figure to enter the contest.

Organizers are currently accepting registrations for activity booths and applications from food vendors. Sales vendors will not be accepted as activity booths.

Additional details about Many Fall Fest are expected to be announced as the event approaches.

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Jerome “JC” Clarence Powell

Funeral services for Jerome “JC” Clarence Powell, 74, were held on Friday, August 14, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 9891 Texas Hwy, Many, Louisiana. A visitation was held on Thursday, August 13, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A burial followed on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Lewis Cemetery, 355 Lewis Cemetery Rd., DeRidder, Louisiana. Officiating the service was Brother Matt Warren.

Jerome was born on July 1, 1952 to Marvin Elmore Powell and Mary Germaine Powell in Newton, Texas and passed away on Monday, August 10, 2026 in Many, Louisiana.

Jerome served in the military for 8 years. He was Boatswain Mate 1st Class. He was a lifetime member of the Zwolle Ebarb VFW Post 5187 as well as the American Legion in DeRidder Post 27. He retired after 39 years and one day from the Boise Cascade Paper Mill in DeRidder, Louisiana. He was known as the mayor of Shadow’s Landing and took care of the residents. He had an infectious laugh and drew all in that heard him. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He always left things better than he found them.

Jerome was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Mary Powell; mother-in-law, Sue Riley; father-in-law, Red Riley; sister, Mary Ann Powell; brothers, Francis (Fuzz) Powell, James Powell, and Thomas Powell.

He is survived by his wife, Katy Jo Powell, of Many, Louisiana; daughters, Amanda Stokes (Jeff) of Arcadia, Oklahoma, Heather LaBee of Fayetteville, Arkansas, and Emily Powell (Sarah) of Queen Creek, Arizona, Hope Wayland (Todd) of Dothan, Alabama; sisters, Wannelle Jaeger of Leesville, Louisiana, Roxieanne Briggs of Leesville, Louisiana, and Bridget Huie of Leesville, Louisiana; brother, Ben Powell (Karen) of Bay St. Louis, Alabama; 5 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; his precious sidekick, Tater, who patrolled and visited beloved friends of Shadow’s Landing; and numerous nieces, nephews, and a lot of cool cousins.

Honoring Jerome as pallbearers were Billy Owen, Ronnie Cunningham, Jason Richard, Nathan Richard, Tony Baker, and Glyn Harper. Serving as honorary pallbearers were Jeff Comeaux, Jeff Thibideaux, Bobby Stephens, Tommy Richard, and John Dever.

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

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William E Sepulvado

Funeral services for William “Sweet” Ernest Sepulvado were held on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 307 Hammond St, Zwolle, Louisiana. A visitation took place on Tuesday, August 18, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with a Rosary at 6:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 9891 Texas Hwy, Many, Louisiana. A burial followed at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Officiating the service will be Father Keith Garvin.

William passed away on August 16, 2026, at the age of 81. He was born in Zwolle, Louisiana on October 4, 1944, to Susan and Ernest “Bocat” Sepulvado.

William, lovingly known as “Sweet”, was a true family man who took great pride in the people he loved. He was a hardworking man who spent many years working as a log truck driver before retiring. He was known for his strong work ethic, kind heart, and the love he had for his family. His presence, stories, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew him. William was the youngest of five children.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Susan and Ernest “Bocat” Sepulvado; his two brothers, Joseph Harvey Sepulvado and Marvin Sepulvado; and his special friend, Ethel Paddie.

He is survived by his three sons, Rodney “Head” Meshell, Rodney Sepulvado, and Doyle Sepulvado; his sisters, Marjorie Craig and Jane Permenter; his beloved companion, “Bulldog”; grandchildren, Brittany Evans, Kristen Meshell, Kelsey Meshell, Elana Sepulvado, Rex Sepulvado, Marissa Sepulvado, and Aiden Sepulvado. He also leaves behind many other family members, friends, and loved ones who will forever cherish his memory.

“Sweet” was a man who valued family, hard work, and the simple things in life. Though his time here has come to an end, the love he gave and the memories he made will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Rest easy, Sweet. Your work here is done. You will be dearly missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Honoring Sweet as pallbearers were his nephews, Justin Sepulvado, Marty Sepulvado, Brayden Sepulvado, Ernie Sepulvado, Jr., Ernie Sepulvado, Sr., Todd Sepulvado, and Corey Sepulvado. Servings as honorary pallbearers were Doyle “Monkey Man” Remedies, Lennis Meshell, Tim Meshell, Simon “Slick” Leone, Leroy “Red Billy” Sepulvado, Michael Meshell, and Jimmy Meshell.

The family would like to extend their warmest thanks to Dr. Kirtan Koticha and his staff as well as Superior Hospice for all the love and dedication to “Sweet”.

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

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Joseph “Joe” Zammit, Sr.
November 29, 1931 — August 23, 2026
Services: Saturday, August 29, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Terence Catholic Mission

Sabine Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access.

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A parish-wide burn ban is now in effect in Sabine Parish due to high temperatures and an extended period without precipitation.

The burn ban took effect Friday, Aug. 14, 2026, and prohibits all outside burning throughout Sabine Parish, including the burning of garbage, grass, leaves and brush.

According to the burn ban declaration issued by the Sabine Parish Police Jury, high temperatures and a lack of precipitation have resulted in dangerous fire conditions and an elevated threat to property and residents.

Work-related burning permits must be issued by one of the parish fire chiefs.

Sabine Parish Police Jury President Ronny Bison also proclaimed a State of Emergency within Sabine Parish due to the fire conditions. Emergency preparedness plans and parish hazard emergency operation plans may be activated if necessary.

According to the declaration, violations of the burn ban are subject to penalties of not less than $100 and not more than $500, plus court costs, upon conviction.

The declaration was issued Aug. 14 and will remain in effect until fire conditions improve or for 30 days from the date it was issued.

The Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office advised anyone with questions or concerns about the burn ban to contact their local fire district.

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The Central Sabine Fire Department responded to 122 calls during July, an increase of 14 calls from the previous month, with officials reporting noticeable increases in EMS calls and woods and grass fires.

According to the department’s July run report, EMS calls accounted for 76 responses, the largest category for the month. Crews also responded to 11 woods or grass fires and 15 motor vehicle accidents.

Other calls during July included six fire or smoke alarms, three incidents involving arcing power lines, two car fires, five public assists, two chlorine or gas leaks, one structure fire, one dumpster fire and one landing zone setup.

Fire officials said persistent dry conditions have contributed to an increased danger of woods and grass fires. Dry vegetation can ignite easily and allow fires to spread more quickly than expected.

The department also attributed the increase in EMS calls in part to summer heat, noting that heat exhaustion and heat stroke can develop quickly, particularly during prolonged outdoor activities.

Central Sabine Fire Department encouraged residents to stay hydrated, use caution in the heat and consider the fire danger before burning.

“Our crews are always ready to respond, but the best emergency is the one we can prevent,” the department stated.

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SABINE PARISH, La. — Sabine Parish will experience a prolonged stretch of hot and sunny weather through the weekend, with afternoon temperatures remaining near 98 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.

Wednesday will be sunny and hot with a high near 98 degrees and calm winds. Wednesday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 76.

Thursday will remain sunny and hot with a high near 98 degrees. Thursday night will be mostly clear with a low around 76.

Friday will be sunny and hot with a high near 98 degrees. Friday night will be mostly clear with a low around 75.

Saturday will continue the sunny and hot pattern with a high near 98 degrees. Saturday night will be mostly clear with a low around 75.

Sunday will bring another sunny and hot day with a high near 98 degrees.

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