Tony Dean Burgstiner
August 4, 1964 — March 31, 2025
A memorial service will be held in his hometown of Savannah, Georgia.

Jerry Lee Vines
July 3, 1946 — April 14, 2025
Service: Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Zwolle

Carol Ann Huffman
June 24, 1967 — March 27, 2025
Arrangements TBA

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

Longtime Sabine Parish District Attorney Don M. Burkett was among the seven honorees from throughout the state inducted into the Louisiana Political Hall of Fame in its 33rd annual induction ceremony on April 5.

Winnfield’s Louisiana Political Museum and Hall of Fame tells the story of the state’s ofttimes colorful political history with historical artifacts and memorabilia. The Hall of Fame honors those politicians and civic leaders who have made a particularly noteworthy mark on our state’s leadership scene.

Don M. Burkett was recognized for a lifetime of public service to Sabine parish and Louisiana. His 41 years as Sabine parish district attorney is the longest such tenure in the state’s history, a testament to the caliber of his character and legal ability. Continuing his legacy of service, Burkett also served as president of the Louisiana District Attorney’s Association and the board of directors of the North Louisiana Crime Lab. He was inducted into the Louisiana Criminal Justice Hall of Fame in 2023.

His fellow 2025 inductees were: Judge Marion F. Edwards, Jimmy “Jim” Harris, The Honorable James Maxwell “Max” Kelley, Carloyn R. Phillips, Marsha Shuler, and Charles S. “Charlie” Weems.

Sabine Parish Sheriff Aaron Mitchell and Chief Deputy Brad Walker have announced that the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office has officially joined the Louisiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force.

Three detectives from the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office are now assigned to the task force and will be responsible for investigating internet crimes against children in Sabine Parish. The partnership is in collaboration with the Office of the Louisiana Attorney General.

The Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office joins law enforcement agencies across the state in efforts to keep children safe from online predators.

BATON ROUGE – A bill introduced in the Louisiana House of Representatives aims to restrict the types of food that can be purchased with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. House Bill 260, authored by Representative Romero, seeks to prohibit the use of SNAP benefits to buy certain unhealthy snack foods, including sugary, salty, and high-fat items.

The bill, filed for the 2024 Regular Legislative Session, cites concerns about the health and well-being of Louisiana’s children as a key motivation. Lawmakers argue that the current availability of unhealthy snack foods to SNAP recipients undermines efforts to promote healthier diets among low-income families.

If passed, the bill would add a new section to the state’s Revised Statutes—R.S. 46:302—which defines “unhealthy snack food” as including, but not limited to:

Sugary items such as candies, cookies, cakes, and sweetened beverages

Salty snacks like chips, pretzels, and other high-sodium processed foods

High-fat foods including fried foods, pastries, and packaged snack cakes

The legislation directs the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) to develop and implement rules to enforce the restrictions. Additionally, the department would be tasked with collaborating with healthcare professionals, nutritionists, and other experts to create educational materials for SNAP recipients. These resources would inform families, children, and caregivers about healthier snack alternatives that can be purchased using SNAP benefits.

Supporters of the bill argue that it promotes better nutrition and long-term health outcomes for families relying on public assistance. Critics, however, may raise concerns about government overreach and the challenges of defining and enforcing what qualifies as “unhealthy” food.

As the legislative session progresses, the proposal will be subject to committee review and potential amendments before reaching a full vote in the House.

By Steve Graf  

Not really sure where to start with this article. I understand that we live in a world that is constantly moving forward in so many ways, especially when it comes to technology. All sports evolve with time! While some progress is for the good of the sport, it could be argued that some is not. 
 
Golf, for example, has become so advanced due to technological advances with equipment, that some golf courses are becoming obsolete. Whether it’s the clubs or the balls, the advancements are insane and have made some golf course architects lengthen their new designs to accommodate the improvements in golf equipment. 
 
This is true even with bass tournaments. Rods and reels, tackle, bass boats and electronics have all come so far in the last 20 years that the sport is no longer just about who can catch bass, but who has the best equipment. 
 
Technology has leveled the playing field with the controversial forward-facing sonar (FFS). This invention has allowed the younger generation of anglers coming up to compete with the older more experienced anglers. No longer can an angler just go flip bushes and win an event. He or she better be good at using FFS and looking for fish that are roaming in open water, a technique that was unheard of 10 years ago. 
 
Also, 10 years ago, 20 pounds was the target weight if you wanted to have a chance to win. Not today! The new normal at weigh-in time has become 25 pounds or better. Twenty pounds today is average with this new FFS technology. 
 
Another question that’s being asked today: “Why has bass tournament participation gone way down?” By way down, we mean cut in half, as most tournament trail registrations are down 50 percent! Why? There could be several reasons like the economy, the price of bass boats, etc., but most will say forward-facing sonar. 
 
Anglers using FFS are dominating tournaments. While other anglers can’t afford it, some have just rejected or refused to learn to fish this way. They have come to the realization that they just can’t compete with anglers who are using this advanced technology. Therefore, many have decided to withdraw from tournament competition all together.
 
What does this mean for tournament organizations in the long run? Well, if they don’t adapt and change, some will just fade away like the sun going down. But I think there might be a glimmer of hope! 
 
Some tournament organizations have taken the initiative to ban FFS in all their events in order to encourage tournament anglers to come back. Up until now, only a few have taken a hardline stance on this issue. Most benefit tournaments like the Despino Tire Fishin’ for Kids event have banned this technology and have had record numbers of anglers show up to fish their tournament. The Dylan Kyle Poche Tournament for 2026 will also be a no-FFS event. 
 
Other organizations have also taken a stance to ban this technology like the newest professional level circuit, the NPFL (National Professional Fishing League). Top name pros have made decisions to leave major organizations like Major League Fishing (MLF) and the Bassmasters (B.A.S.S.) in order to fish with no FFS. 
 
As some of the older anglers will tell you, the sport of bass fishing should not come down to who has the best electronics, but rather who has the most skill for both finding and catching bass. The new technology has ruined the purity and integrity of the sport of bass fishing. For the first time in my life, FFS may be the most controversial advancement that a lot of anglers feel has not been good for the sport. 
 
So where do we go from here? Will 2026 bring a whole new set of rule changes like banning forward-facing sonar? Will all tournament organizations finally take a stance and do what’s best for the sport or will they be convinced by money from these electronic sponsors to maintain the status quo? 
 
Only time will tell what the future will hold for so many tournament organizations as they attempt to reel in so many anglers that have left the sport for what they feel is an unlevel playing field. 
 
‘Til next time, make sure your hooks are sharp, and your boat is full of gas. Hope to see you on the lake! 

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

By Doug De Graffenried

The other day I counted the words that I have created, these were either spoken words, or words like this article. In the 43 years of ministry, I have produced 15,000,000 words! You knew that preachers talked too much, now you have proof. That number includes, articles, 10 years of writing Sunday School materials, sermons, weddings, funerals, and the ever present “come speak to our group” events. I handle lots of words! The majority of those words had something to do with Jesus!

The Gospel of John (21:25) states that if everything Jesus did were written down, “I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written,” That is certainly a statement of hyperbole, right? Jesus lived 33 years on this earth. We have an extensive record of what he did during his three-year public ministry. Sounds like the gospel writer was exaggerating for effect, right?

Most scholars believe that Jesus was crucified between 27-33 A.D. There is no way of determining the exact date, but we know his life came to an end on the cross. We are also preparing to celebrate Easter. The good news that the tomb is empty because; He is risen!

Since he is risen from the dead, and now intercedes for us with the Father, since the Holy Spirit dwells in each one of us, Jesus is still “doing things” in our world and in the lives of individuals. The books would never catch up with what Jesus is doing, because He is ahead of the books.

Right now, as you read, He is working in your life. Now as you read, He offers you love and grace. In this moment, He whispers to your soul, “Follow me.” Jesus is walking the life pathway with all his children, through the Spirit. The books will never catch up with the powerful presence of Jesus in the life of the church and in the individual lives of believers.

The words of your life story are not complete, because Jesus, the Word made flesh is still working in you and through you.

Jesus keeps working in me and I share those words through writing and speaking. His Word is not finished in my life, yours either.

That is a good word!

Sheriff Aaron Mitchell reports two men were arrested on March 29 for stealing communication wire off Hwy. 191, South of Zwolle.

Sabine Parish Sheriff Patrol FTO (Field Training Officer) A. Early was traveling on Hwy 191 just south of Obrie Street around 9:15PM Saturday night when he noticed two men walking in the ditch and a SUV and trailer parked on the shoulder of the road. Deputy Early stopped to investigate and identified Leon Glen Williams (age-43) of Zwolle and Joseph Chris Vines Jr (age-28) of Noble.

K-9 Deputy J. Alford and Sgt N. Sepulvado arrived on the scene to assist Deputy Early as both men were acting suspicious. Deputies located hundreds of feet of communication (copper) wire, a cutting saw, and straps lying on the side of road. Other cutting tools, blades, saws, and pieces of wire were discovered inside the SUV belonging to Williams.

Detective D. Self was called to the scene to lead the investigation and questioned Williams and Vines about the wire. Both men blamed each other for stealing the wire. The communication company was contacted and said it would cost over $50,000 to replace the wire.

Williams and Vines were transported to the Sabine Parish Detention Center and each booked for:
-Theft over $25,000,
-Simple criminal damage to property over $50,000.

Williams bond was set at $7,500, Vines bond was set at $5,000, they both bonded.

Sheriff Mitchell commends Deputy Early for being at the right place at the right time to catch these thieves in the act.

If you wish to report a crime or any suspicious activity, please call the Sheriff’s Office at 318-256-9241 option 5, or submit an anonymous tip through our Sabine Parish Sheriff App.

Sheriff Aaron Mitchell has announced the latest felony narcotics and firearm-related arrests for March 2025. These arrests and investigations reflect ongoing efforts to combat drug-related crimes and keep the community safe.

Francis Elizabeth Hernandez (age-54) of Natchitoches
• Possession of schedule II (Meth),
• Possession of drug paraphernalia,
• Possession of firearm in presence of CDS.
Bond set at $5,000, she bonded.

Rita Ann Randolph (age-75) of Natchitoches
• Possession of schedule II (Meth),
• Possession of drug paraphernalia,
• Possession of firearm in presence of CDS.
Bond set at $5,000, she bonded.

Derrick Dwayne Williamson Jr (age-24) of Houston, TX
• Possession of schedule I (Synthetic Cannabinoids),
• Possession of schedule II (Oxycodone).
Bond set at $5,000, he bonded.

Brandon Jay Lewis (age-34) of Anacoco
• Possession of schedule II (Meth),
• Possession of drug paraphernalia,
• Obstruction of justice,
• No turn signal.
Bond set at $4,000, he bonded.

Dakota Allen Wyatt (age-32) of Many
• Domestic abuse battery by strangulation,
• False imprisonment,
• Possession of firearm by person convicted of domestic abuse battery,
• Aggravated assault with a firearm.
No bond, he remains in jail.

Shawn Xavier Pearce (age-21) of Grand Cane
Warrant for:
• Possession of firearm by person convicted of certain felonies,
• Obstruction of justice.
Bond set at $15,000, he bonded.

Rex Matthew Snell (age-40) of Many
• Possession of schedule II (Meth),
• Second or subsequent offenses,
• Possession of drug paraphernalia,
• Domestic abuse battery,
• Simple criminal damage to property,
• Resisting a peace officer with force or violence,
• Resisting an officer,
Warrants for:
• 2-counts of Possession of firearm by person convicted of certain felonies.
Total bonds set at $17,000, he remains in jail.

Tyler Tyjaie McNeal (age-20) of Leesville
• Possession of schedule II,
• Possession of drug paraphernalia,
• Possession of a firearm in presence of CDS,
• Illegal carrying of weapons,
• Resisting an officer by flight,
• Contraband in penal institution prohibited.
Warrants for:
• Distribution of schedule I (Marijuana),
• FTA for Illegal possession of stolen things $5,000-$25,000.
Total bonds set at $55,000, he remains in jail.

Christopher Ray Nelson (age-33) of Florien
• Possession of schedule II (Meth).
Bond set at $3,000, he bonded.

Lester Lavan Thomas (age-65) of Many
• Warrant for Distribution of schedule II (Meth).
Bond set at $40,000, he remains in jail.

Savannah Paige Crittenden (age-27) of Florien
• Possession of schedule II (Meth),
• Possession of drug paraphernalia,
• Contraband in penal institution prohibited,
• Warrant for Simple burglary.
Total bonds set at $6,500, she bonded.

Tobias Antwardion Holbert (age-25) of Many
• Possession with intent to distribute schedule I (Marijuana),
• Possession of drug paraphernalia,
• Warrant for Cyberstalking.
Total bonds set at $6,500, he bonded.

Opal Leeanna Parrie (age-42) of Zwolle
• Possession of schedule II (Meth),
• Possession of drug paraphernalia,
• Illegal use of CDS in presence of persons under age 17,
• Obstruction of justice,
• Improper lane usage.
Bond set at $5,000, she bonded.

Tristion Clint Sepulvado (age-36) of Noble
• Possession with intent to distribute schedule I (Marijuana),
• Aggravated arson.
Bond set at $30,000, he remains in jail.

By Brad Dison

Each year since 1950, people have gathered at Scotland’s Edinburgh Castle Esplanade in August for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Not to be confused with soldiers having ink inserted into the dermis layer of skin, a military tattoo is a festival consisting of music, dancing, and general merrymaking focused on Scottish heritage and international culture. The most anticipated portion of the festival consists of numerous precision military displays.
Since 1961, His Majesty The King’s Guard of Norway, an elite unit tasked with protecting the Norwegian royal family, has participated in the military displays. In August 1972, while in Scotland for the Tattoo, the Royal Norwegian King’s Guard added another soldier to its regimental ranks. On that day, Nils Olav became a lance corporal, a rank which usually requires long or outstanding service to attain. It was Nils’s first day. His first duty as a soldier was to inspect his troops, a duty he performed with the confidence and skill of someone with much more experience. Nils proudly wore a pennant of the prestigious King’s Guard around his right arm. Most soldiers would have resented a newcomer reaching such a rank without earning it, but no one resented Nils. You see, Nils Olav’s family had deep Scandinavian roots, and he was, himself, a king.

Nils may have been given the rank of lance corporal on his first day, but promotions came slowly at first. In 1982, after 10 years as a lance corporal, Nils received his first promotion when he was made a full corporal. Five years later, he became a sergeant. In 1993, during that year’s Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Nils was promoted to regimental sergeant major. Nils’s promotion and his inspection of his troops was televised in Norway and throughout much of Europe. Nils became somewhat of a celebrity Europe, though most people in America were unaware of his rising fame. In 2001, during a ceremony at the Tattoo in which Nils was awarded the Norwegian Army’s Long Service and Good Conduct medal, the Royal Norwegian Guard promoted him to colonel-in-chief. On the morning of August 15, 2008, Nils’s fellow soldiers gathered for Nils’s knighting ceremony. He has been known as Sir Nils Olav ever since. He eventually rose to the rank of brigadier.

If you are able to watch the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo this Fall, you will probably see Sir Nils Olav’s inspection of the troops. He has done it each year since 1972. But if you were to look closely at photos of Sir Nils through the years, you might notice minute differences in his appearance. You must have a keen eye to notice. In 1987, Nils Olav died and was replaced by a lookalike. He looked so much like Nils Olav that no one noticed. When the lookalike died some years later, he was replaced by yet another lookalike who continued his work in the military as if nothing had happened. Why did news outlets around the world not pounce on the story which should have captured our attention? You see, Sir Nils Olav is a king…a three foot tall king penguin. He lives at the Edinburgh Zoo and is the mascot for the Royal Norwegian King’s Guard.

Sources:

1. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, accessed April 5, 2025, https://www.edintattoo.co.uk/

2. The Guardian (London, England), August 17, 1972, p.6.

3. The Daily Telegraph (London, England), August 18, 1993, p.4.

4. Irish Independent, August 18, 2005, p.T4.

5. East Oregonian, August 15, 2008, p.8.

Linda Kay (Durr) Martone, 76, was born on January 1, 1949 in Vernon, Texas to Ruben & Cleo (Adams) Durr. She passed away on Sunday, April 6, 2025 in Shreveport, Louisiana. She was raised with her brothers and sister in Vernon until she met and married the love of her life, Richard Martone, in 1964. They moved to Baton Rouge, Louisiana and started their family, into which they welcomed two sons and two daughters, finally making their home in Walker, Louisiana. In 1982, they moved to Many, Louisiana, on Toledo Bend Lake where Linda was able to be close to her mother.

Linda’s life and indomitable spirit serve as a worthy example of grit, authenticity, humility, self-sacrifice, simplicity, and love. Her doors were always open to her many “adopted” family members and her home was always filled with laughter and love.

Linda is preceded in death by her father and mother, Ruben & Cleo Durr; brothers, Raymond, Jerry, and Charles; sister, Rita; and daughter, Melissa Martone-Perez. She is survived by her husband, Richard Martone, Sr.; sister, Ruby (Doug) Curtis; brother, Billy Durr; sons, Richard (Christina) Martone and Tim (Cherokee Brown) Martone; daughter, Edie (Scott) Gowen; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews and nieces.

A memorial mass will be held on Saturday, April 12 at 10:00 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Many, Louisiana. Following the mass, family and friends are invited to meet at Martone’s Italian Restaurant to visit, share memories, and celebrate Linda’s life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Shriners Hospital for Children.

June 24, 1967 — March 27, 2025

Carol Ann Huffman was born on June 24, 1967 to Mary Ellen McMillion in Evergreen Park, Illinois and passed away on Thursday, March 27, 2025 in Noble, Louisiana.

Carol was a loveable soul, that was nice to a fault. She enjoyed every day and everywhere she went because she never met a stranger and made friends all along life’s way. Carol was known for her tardiness when it came to her arrival at any event. One of Carol’s passions was photography and taking pictures of her grandchildren was one of her favorite subjects. Carol loved her grandchildren and will be missed by each and every one of them.

Carol is preceded in death by her mother, Mary Ellen McMillion and stepfather, Harry Allen. She is survived by her husband of 16 years, David Huffman of Noble, Louisiana; son, Cory McMillion and wife, Tiffany, of Noble, Louisiana; daughters, Alexandria Marr and husband, Jake, of Logansport, Louisiana, Catherine Marr of Burleson, Texas, Jaclynn Marr of Mansfield, Louisiana, and Marian Linhart of Converse, Louisiana; sister, Rebecca Manor; grandchildren, Ava Miller, Zoey McMillion, Kylee Tetu, and Levi Martin.

A memorial service will be announced at a later time.

October 26, 1940 — March 25, 2025

Funeral services for Ottis Lyman Branam, 84, were held on March 30 at Little Flock Baptist Church in Many under the direction of Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home. A visitation was held on March 29 and March 30 at Little Flock Baptist Church. A burial followed the service at Little Flock Cemetery. Officiating the service was Brother Wayne Chance and Brother Jimmy Speight.

Ottis was born on October 26, 1940 to Levoie Branam and Hazel Miller Branam in Many, Louisiana and passed away on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 in Many, Louisiana.

Ottis was ordained on July 31, 1975 by Little Flock Baptist Church and was called to preach in November of 1993. He pastored Little Flock Baptist Church for 32 years. His greatest loves in life were his God, church, and his family. He passed out Dum Dum suckers to every baby he came across until the day he met his Lord.

Ottis was preceded in death by his wife, Billie Branam; parents, Hazel and Levoie Branam; son, Keith Branam; and brother, Bill Branam. He is survived by his sons, Ottis Dane Branam and wife, Kim, of Many, Louisiana and Tracy Branam of Many, Louisiana; daughters, Katrina Dowden and husband, Wayde, of Many, Louisiana and Nerissa Pitt and husband, Mike, of Many, Louisiana; sisters, Joan Robins of Shreveport, Louisiana and Nesta Reeves and husband, Stan, of Many, Louisiana; brothers, Merl Branam of Shreveport, Louisiana and Kerry Branam and wife, Sheila, of Many, Louisiana; 12 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren.

Honoring Ottis as pallbearers were Chris Cook, Chris Gatti, Lenny George, Brandon Hyatt, Dennis Reeves, Tommy Snider, John Tedder, and Lynn Turnley.

Hollie Lynn Magee was born on October 4, 1984 to Felicia Marie Nequin in Bogalus, Louisiana and passed away on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 in Natchitoches, Louisiana.

Hollie is preceded in death by her mother. She is survived by her stepdad, Gordon Fontenot of Many, Louisiana; son, Colby Hinton of Many, Louisiana; daughters, Brandi Magee of Many, Louisiana, Akira Lasyone of Houma, Louisiana, and Nevaeh Hinton of Many, Louisiana; and brother, Randall Magee (Lacey Lasyone) of Many, Louisiana.

For over 15 years, the Women’s Resource Center has hosted the Run Baby Run, a one mile fun run and a 5K, to increase awareness of the Center and the services it provides. These free services for clients include: pregnancy tests, limited ultrasounds, educational sessions, visits with our client advocates, supportive services and material assistance. The mission of the WRC is to educate and empower individuals to make life-affirming choices. The Women’s Resource Center provided over 850 services in 2024 and is currently serving clients from ten parishes.

We are excited to announce that this year’s Run Baby Run will be held in conjunction with the 28th Annual Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival. On May 10, runners, walkers and supporters will be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of Natchitoches while supporting the Center. When Jazz Fest organizer (and WRC Supporter) Rodney Harrington was asked about this new collaboration he said “I think it’s awesome that the Run Baby Run is going to be held the morning of the Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival on May 10! It’s going to be a spectacular day in our town. The participants will be able to finish their run, shower and still make it down to the riverbank in time to hear Gretchen Wilson, the BAR-KAYS and all the other great acts at the festival. See y’all there!”

Runners, walkers and supporters of the Women’s Resource Center will gather at First Baptist Church, located at 508 Second Street, Natchitoches before 8 AM. Runners and walkers will take the beauty of the Historic District of Natchitoches, while enjoying the buzz and excitement the morning before the musical entertainment takes over downtown. Information, including registration link, can be found at wrcnatchitoches.org/events/2025-run-baby-run.

The success of the WRC is strongly based on the support of its advocates, volunteers and donors. While some grants are received, the Center offers numerous ways to support through monetary and material donations. From the support of volunteers to NSU special interest groups to local churches, the Center draws its strength from supporters in all forms. The Run is one of two fundraisers the Center hosts during the year. Our largest fundraiser will be our Annual Right to Life Gala slated for Sept. 18 at the Natchitoches Event Center. Visit our website for more details or call 318-357-8888.

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National Holiday: National Unicorn Day

April 9 brings a touch of magic with National Unicorn Day. This whimsical celebration honors the mythical creature that has captivated imaginations for centuries. From ancient myths to modern pop culture, unicorns symbolize purity, enchantment, and wonder. Fans can partake by donning unicorn-themed apparel, enjoying unicorn-inspired treats, or simply embracing the day’s fantastical spirit.

Historical Event: The Journey of Reconciliation Begins

On this day in 1947, the Journey of Reconciliation commenced. Organized by the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE), this initiative involved 16 Black and white activists traveling together through the American South to challenge segregation on interstate buses. This courageous act served as a precursor to the more widely known Freedom Rides of the 1960s, highlighting early efforts in the Civil Rights Movement to confront racial injustice.

Hollie Lynn Magee
October 4, 1984 — April 2, 2025
No arrangement information

Linda Kay Martone
January 1, 1949 — April 6, 2025
Service: Saturday, April 12th at 10:00 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Many

Carol Ann Huffman
June 24, 1967 — March 27, 2025
Arrangements TBA

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

State Fire Marshal (SFM) deputies have booked into the Sabine Parish Detention Center a Zwolle, Louisiana man on charges of Aggravated Arson and Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana.

On March, 29, 2025, the North Sabine Fire District responded at 2:02 p.m. to a report of smoke coming from an apartment complex in the 500 block of Oak Street. When firefighters arrived and entered the apartment, they found a smoldering mattress. State Fire Marshal deputies also found a large quantity of marijuana in the apartment. While investigators were searching the residence, the occupant, Tristion Sepulvado (26) returned home and deputies arrested him.

Witnesses say in the early morning hours leading up to the fire, Sepulvado was acting very strangely. They claim he was chain smoking and waiving a fire extinguisher outside of his apartment. A State Fire Marshal’s investigation determined that Sepulvado set his mattress on fire, removed the fire extinguisher from his apartment, and didn’t alert his neighbors putting them in jeopardy.

Anyone with information regarding any suspected arson case is asked to submit tips through our Arson Hotline at 1-844-954-1221 or online at lasfm.org. All tips can be submitted anonymously.

With crawfish season upon us, Acadia Parish Sheriff’s deputies have taken an aggressive approach to reduce thefts against farmers. Crawfish is a much-needed crop for the operations of farmers and deputies work hard to support their efforts.

On March 27, deputies patrolling on Potters Road, observed a vehicle which was suspicious. Upon further investigation, the deputy observed an individual running the crawfish traps in the field. Continuing his investigation, the deputy was able to determine that the individual was not employed by the land owner nor had permission to harvest the crawfish.

Brandon Miller, 31 of Many, was arrested for One count of Felony Theft and one count of Criminal Trespassing. He was booked into the Acadia Parish Jail.

“I appreciate our deputies’ efforts to resolve crime within our parish and also like their proactive approach while patrolling our parish” stated Sheriff KP Gibson.

The Town of Many asking for all tractor and trailer rigs that park near Ivanhoe and Mississippi to be moved by Sunday, April 6 so maintenance crews can proceed with mowing and weedeating. Owners may resume parking in this area on Wednesday, April 9. The Town of Many thanks everyone for their cooperation.

Photo: File Photo

Sabine Parish will once again honor the memory of Deputy Adam Nelson with the 2nd Annual Adam Nelson Memorial Bass Pond Fishing Tournament on Saturday, April 26. The tournament will begin at 6:30 AM, with the official weigh-in at 3:00 PM at 331 Wyatt Road at Richard Wyatt’s house.

Deputy Nelson, who passed away unexpectedly in December 2022 due to a medical condition, was a dedicated officer known for his commitment and leadership at the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office. His work ethic and passion for service inspired his fellow deputies, and this annual event serves as a tribute to his lasting impact.

The tournament is open to anglers of all skill levels, with a $50 entry fee and an optional $10 Big Bass entry. Participants may fish in any pond in the area, with a five-fish stringer weigh-in that includes their biggest bass. The tournament will feature a 60/40 split-the-pot payout, with one place paid per every five entries. Special prizes include a 15-and-under division award and a $100 prize for the smallest bass caught.

Sabine Parish Sheriff Aaron Mitchell, who participated in last year’s event, called it a great success and encouraged the community to take part once again.

For more information or to register, contact Bradley Ford at 318-471-8585 or Richard Wyatt at 318-471-5557.

As Deputy Nelson often said, “Let it motivate you, Bro.”

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By Doug De Graffenried

I was chasing a rabbit the other day and I went down the theological rabbit hole. This is what I discovered.

There is a great deal of sleeping going on in the New Testament.

Jesus was asleep in the back of the boat during a storm. The story appears in all three synoptic gospels. The disciple’s question was, “Lord, don’t you care that we perish?” The Bible says after God created; he rested. The Hebrew word is the intensive form of the verb. God intensely rested and commanded us to rest too! I’m not surprised Jesus was asleep after a long day of preaching and healing!

According to Luke, the disciples were asleep on the Mount of Transfiguration. The bright light and the visitation of Moses and Elijah awakened them. As Luke records the story, the bleary-eyed disciples missed the good stuff and became “fully awake” toward the end of the event.

Jesus told His followers to stay awake and watch for signs of great spiritual upheaval and then the second coming. He asked the disciples to stay awake and watch while He was praying in Gethsemane. But after the big supper and wine, the disciples kept falling asleep.

Sleeping soldiers were the first witnesses to the resurrection of Jesus. “And suddenly there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord, descended from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it…. For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men.” The punishment for a Roman soldier falling asleep on duty was death. The soldiers had a problem explaining to their superiors who rolled the stone back from the tomb’s entrance. Can you hear these soldiers trying to give the angel report? It was easier for them to face death and confess to being asleep.

The book of Acts records another example of a sleepy disciple. Seated in a window was a young man named Eutychus, who was sinking into a deep sleep as Paul talked on and on. When he was sound asleep, “he fell to the ground from the third story was picked up dead.” The story has a happy ending, he was not dead, just had the wind knocked out of him.

Sleeping is a good thing. In some of the modern works on spiritual formation, sleep is listed as a spiritual practice under “stillness” or “Sabbath.” God rested, Jesus slept, should we not take the hint?

The other side of the coin is known as “spiritual sleepwalking.” That happens when we practice all the rituals of our faith, yet we are not connecting with God. It does happen in church, when after the hymn singing the congregation sits down and some of them zone out.

I leave you with the words of the Apostle Paul, “And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.”

The Town of Many received five new trash receptacles through the Keep Louisiana Beautiful Grant. These additions will help keep the downtown area clean and litter-free, making the community even more beautiful.

Many is grateful for this opportunity to promote a cleaner environment and encourage everyone to do their part—dispose of trash properly and keep the town looking its best.

By Brad Dison

Love at first site is such a rarity that it is usually only found in Hollywood films, but it can and does happen. By all accounts, Carl was tall, dark, and extremely… shy. On June 1, 1964, Carl was driving along the city’s 8th Avenue. As he approached the Wishy Washy laundromat, he saw Rebecca standing just outside its door.

On the day before, Rebecca had graduated from high school. She had anxiously awaited her graduation day because she planned to move from the one-room rural childhood home she shared with her parents and 11 siblings to a city 200 miles away which offered many more opportunities. Rebecca’s aunt and uncle had agreed to let her rent the upstairs apartment in their small house. When graduation day came, Rebecca went to the graduation ceremony and then gathered her clothes to leave. She was in such a hurry making plans to leave that she had forgotten to do her laundry. On Rebecca’s first day in the big city, rather than taking in the sights, she walked to the Wishy Washy laundromat. She put her clothes in the coin-operated washers and started the machine. When the washing machine stopped a half hour or so later, Rebecca transferred her laundry to a drier. To ease her boredom, Rebecca walked out of the laundromat to take a look around.

At that precise moment, Carl caught a glimpse of Rebecca. He then did something that was so out of character that he surprised himself. He pulled up beside her and said, “you’re going to get a sunburn out here.” The last thing Rebecca was looking for was a man. She had left two boyfriends, which she had at the same time, back home when she moved to the big city. Before Rebecca could even formulate her reply, she knew their meeting was destiny. She said later, “I knew it was him, and he knew it was me.” The topic of their conversation was not a memorable one, but they just enjoyed being in each other’s presence. It was love at first sight.

Carl visited Rebecca when their schedules allowed. He worked in construction and she as a babysitter. A few days later, Carl asked Rebecca to dinner, an invitation she immediately accepted. Rather than going to one of the many restaurants in the city, they drove to Carl’s parents’ house. When they walked in the door, Carl said, “Get this girl a plate. This is the girl I’m going to marry.” Rebecca was flattered. Carl realized soon thereafter that there was a problem. Carl and Rebecca lived on opposite sides of the city.

One day, Carl told Rebecca, “You’re either going to have to move to the other end of town or we’re going to have to get married.” Rebecca responded, “Is that a proposal? I accept.” That weekend, Carl and Rebecca began an almost 59-year marriage in Ringgold, Georgia, which lasted until Carl died last month.

For Carl and Rebecca, it was certainly love at first sight when they met outside the Wishy Washy laundromat in Nashville, Tennessee. Because of his shyness, most of us would never have recognized Carl Thomas Dean by sight or by name, but the world knows Rebecca. You see, Rebecca is the middle name of country legend Dolly Parton.

Source: “Dolly: God, Family and Show Business,” YouTube, October 11, 2024, accessed March 30, 2025, https://youtu.be/lek-CLwncqU?si=J0de4phWCnMjCcro.