December 9, 1932 – February 19, 2026

With deep love and sorrow, we announce the passing of Julian Gonzalez Arce, a beloved father, brother, grandfather, and friend, who departed this life peacefully on February 19, 2026, surrounded by family and love.

Julian was born on December 9, 1932, in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, to Florentino and Angela Gonzalez Arce. From childhood, he radiated kindness, strength, and grace. He carried these qualities throughout his life, touching the hearts of everyone he met.

At the age of eighteen, he moved to the United States, where he met and married Aida Luz Gonzalez, the love of his life and the mother of their four children.

Julian worked in a hamper factory before becoming self-employed and opening his own grocery and liquor store. He was a hardworking and dedicated provider. In his free time, he enjoyed doing word searches, watching wrestling, gardening, and carpentry.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Florentino and Angela; his beloved wife of 60 years, Aida Luz Gonzalez; their firstborn son, David Gonzalez; two brothers; and eight sisters.

Julian was the proud father of four children and three sons-in-law: Angela (Daniel) Diaz, Nancy (Edward) Rollis, and Elizabeth (Eugene) Rollis.

He was a loving grandfather to seven grandchildren: Javine Aida Arroyo, Ricardo Julian Diaz, Christopher Martin Rollis, Daniel Michael Diaz, Daniella Christine Ganaway, AidaLynn Lopez, and Jonathan Matthew Rollis.

He was also a devoted great-grandfather to ten great-grandchildren: Abriel Cadence Arroyo, Michael Angel Arroyo, Lucy Evangeline Ganaway, Leah Avery Arroyo, Julian Xavier Diaz, Kyle Anthony Ganaway, Logan John Diaz, Jude Joseph Ganaway, Anthony Julian Rollis, and Charlotte Julia Lynn Ganaway.

Julian’s life was a blessing, his memory a treasure. He is loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measure.

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Curtis Esmond “Buddy” Pursley
Services held Feb. 22

Betty Carolyn Gaskin Taylor
Service: March 7, 2026 at 3 pm at Good Hope Baptist Church in Anacoco

Julian Gonzales-Arce
No Service Information Listed

Judy C. Glover
Services held on Feb. 21

Charles A. Johnson
Service: Friday, February 27, 2026 at 2 pm at Christ Church of Oakdale

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

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Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies, Louisiana State Police, and Natchitoches Regional Medical Center EMS were dispatched on Feb. 22 around 7:03 am by the NATCOM 911 Center to a reported single-vehicle crash with injuries on Hwy. 117 near Pete Rodgers Road south of Hagewood, according to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies arrived on scene and found the sole occupant of the vehicle suffering from non-life-threatening injuries.

Preliminary information indicates that a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, operated by a 22-year-old Leesville woman, was traveling southbound on Hwy. 117 near Pete Rodgers Road when, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle exited the roadway on the right side. After leaving the roadway, the vehicle overturned at least three times before coming to rest near a tree line.

The driver was able to free herself from her seat belt and crawl out through the rear passenger door, where she flagged down a passing motorist who contacted 911.

The driver was transported by EMS to Natchitoches Regional Medical Center for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

Troopers assigned to Louisiana State Police Troop E are investigating the crash.

Deputies remind motorists to always wear their seat belt, including all passengers. Wearing a seat belt can significantly reduce the chances of serious injury or death in a crash.

Deputy B. Desadier responded for the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.

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The Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office is investigating a series of vehicle thefts that occurred early Feb. 17, 2026, culminating in a crash in a neighboring parish that left a juvenile seriously injured.

Deputies were first notified at approximately 3:50 a.m. of an abandoned vehicle parked in the roadway near Highway 10 and Webster Maricle Road. The vehicle was later determined to have been stolen from a residence on Marlow Road.

At approximately 4:52 a.m., deputies responded to a reported motor vehicle crash near Bailey Road and Highway 10. Upon arrival, they located a GMC pickup truck abandoned and stuck in a creek bed. Contact was made with the vehicle’s registered owner, who stated the truck had been parked in his yard the previous night and that no one had been given permission to use it.

Later, at approximately 8:15 a.m., the sheriff’s office was contacted by the Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Office regarding a crash that occurred in Beauregard Parish. Authorities learned that a 13-year-old male juvenile from Vernon Parish had been involved in the crash. The vehicle he was driving was registered to a Vernon Parish resident.

The juvenile was transported from the scene to a hospital in Lake Charles with serious injuries. Deputies later confirmed with the vehicle’s owner that the vehicle had been parked in the driveway and was taken without permission. The owner was unaware the vehicle was missing at the time.

Following further investigation, deputies determined the 13-year-old was responsible for the theft and property damage involving all three vehicles.

Officials said the juvenile will be arrested and charged accordingly upon his release from the hospital.

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The Rosepine Police Department is currently accepting applications for a full-time police officer position.

Applications may be picked up at the department Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Officials encourage interested candidates to apply during regular business hours. Additional information regarding qualifications and hiring requirements may be obtained directly from the department.

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The Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office announced an upcoming Hunter Education course scheduled for April 10–11 at the Leesville Forestry Building located at the parish fairgrounds.

The class will be held Friday, April 10, from 6 to 9 p.m., and Saturday, April 11, beginning at 8:15 a.m. and continuing until completion. Participants must attend both days and successfully pass a written exam to receive certification.

The 10-hour classroom course covers firearm and hunting safety, wildlife management principles, ethics, game identification and outdoor survival. Students are also required to complete a live-fire exercise. Firearms and ammunition for the exercise will be provided, and students are instructed not to bring their own firearms or ammunition.

According to registration information, only four seats remain available. Those wishing to attend must register online in advance through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website at louisianaoutdoors.com.

Instructor Dewey D. Rains will lead the course.

Officials encourage interested participants to register as soon as possible due to limited seating.

louisianaoutdoors.com/events/195594/register-login/register

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The Paul Magee Memorial Tournament will take place Feb. 21–22 at the Leesville Recreation Complex, inviting the community to enjoy a weekend of softball and view recent upgrades to the facility.

Games are scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. Saturday, with Sunday matchups starting at 11 a.m. Tournament play is expected to continue through 8 p.m. each day.

Organizers are encouraging residents to come out and support local travel ball teams while experiencing improvements recently completed at the complex.

The event is open to the public and aims to bring the community together in support of area athletes.

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Members of the Pilot Club of Leesville recently refreshed the StoryWalk installation at Dogwood Park, providing families with a renewed opportunity to enjoy reading outdoors.

Zandra, Melissa and Sheri worked to update the StoryWalk displays along the park’s walking path, with assistance from Beaux and Scott.

The StoryWalk allows children and families to read a book page by page while strolling through the park. Visitors are also encouraged to stop by the Book Nook during their visit to select a book to take home and enjoy.

Club members invite the community to bring children or grandchildren to experience the updated StoryWalk and spend time reading together in the park.

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March 24, 1942 – February 18, 2026

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March 3, 1963 – February 17, 2026

Funeral services for Cynthia “Cindy” Lee Kay will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Freedom Rest Baptist Church with Brother Travis Kay officiating. The burial will follow in Beech Grove Cemetery under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service. Serving as pallbearers will be Austin Billeaud, Sean Billeaud, Jace Billeaud, Caden Billeuad, Leeroy Blackmon, and Jayce Corbett. The honorary pallbearers will be Brandon Lindsey, Joel Hennigan, Javis Hennigan, Eli Sawyer, Mayson Kay, and Justin Sawyer.

A visitation will be held at Freedom Rest Baptist Church on Friday, February 20th from 5:00 p.m. until the time of service on Saturday.

Cindy was born March 3, 1963, in New York, New York and passed away February 17, 2026, in Alexandria, Louisiana at the age of 62. She worked a variety of jobs including working for Cubic, as a waitress at Bobby G’s Restaurant in Merryville, LA, and at the office of Dr. Lubbos, but her most important job was making a loving home for her family. Some of her hobbies included reading, crocheting, shopping, and enjoying some time at the casino. Most of all, Cindy loved spending time with her family and friends.

Cindy was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Lee Kay; mother, Velda Mae Rundle Wilburn; and brothers, Donny Grettner and Sean Grettner.

Those left to cherish her memory are her son, Payton Kay of Anacoco, LA; daughters, Amanda Martin of Anacoco, LA, Alicia Hennigan (Javis) of DeRidder, LA, Keshia Hennigan (Joel) of Merryville, LA, and Tiffany Sawyer (Justin) of Rosepine, LA; grandchildren, Austin Billeaud, Sean Billeaud, Jace Billeaud, Caden Billeaud, Jaylin Shirley (Jeremiah), Jerra Corbett (Jayce), Gracie Hennigan, Ashlynn Hennigan, Madalyn Sawyer, Eli Sawyer, Ayla Kay, Nevaeh Kay, Mayson Kay, Odie Kay, and Adlee Kay; great-grandson, Winston Corbett and one on the way; father, Gordon Lindsey; brother, Brandon Lindsey of Delta, CO; and numerous extended family members and friends.

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Cynthia “Cindy” Lee Kay 
Service: Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 11 am at Freedom Rest Baptist Church

Judith Carol Allen Reeves
July 15, 1954 — February 17, 2026
Service: Saturday February 21, 2026 at 12 pm at Dry Creek Baptist Church at 8237 LA-113 in Dry Creek

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

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Sheriff Sam Craft of the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office announces recent arrests made by VPSO.

February 11, 2026

Coby Midkiff, 24 of Leesville, was arrested on two outstanding Bench Warrants. Bond was set at $3,000. Midkiff remains in the VPSO jail.

February 12, 2026

Carolyn Ann Talbott, 58 of Hornbeck, was arrested and charged with one count of Domestic Abuse Battery, one count of Introduction of Contraband into a Correctional Facility, and one count of Possession of Cocaine. Bond has not been set and Talbott remains in the VPSO jail.

ALL PERSONS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.

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February 18 marks the birthday of Toni Morrison, one of the most influential literary figures in American history and a towering voice in African American culture. Born in 1931, Morrison reshaped how Black stories were told, studied, and valued, leaving a permanent mark not only on literature but on pop culture, education, and national conversations about race and identity.

Morrison’s novels centered Black life with depth, complexity, and honesty at a time when those perspectives were often marginalized or excluded altogether. Works such as Beloved, The Bluest Eye, and Song of Solomon explored themes of history, trauma, love, and resilience, challenging readers to confront uncomfortable truths about America’s past and present.

While Morrison’s work is frequently studied in academic settings, her cultural influence extends far beyond classrooms. Her storytelling style, which blended folklore, realism, and lyrical prose, has inspired filmmakers, musicians, and writers across genres. References to her work appear in song lyrics, visual art, and modern television narratives that focus on generational memory and identity.

February 18 offers a moment to reflect on how Morrison helped redefine whose stories mattered. In 1993, she became the first Black woman to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature, a milestone that elevated African American voices on the global stage. Her achievement wasn’t just personal — it signaled a broader recognition of Black literature as essential to understanding the human experience.

Morrison was also deeply engaged in popular discourse. Her interviews, essays, and public speeches were widely shared and quoted, especially during periods of heightened racial tension in the United States. She had a rare ability to speak with clarity and authority while remaining accessible, making her a cultural figure whose influence reached well beyond literary circles.

Even after her passing in 2019, Morrison’s presence in pop culture continues to grow. Book clubs, social media discussions, and film adaptations have introduced her work to new generations of readers. Quotes from her novels regularly circulate online, often used to frame conversations about justice, beauty, and self-worth.

As Black History Month continues, February 18 stands as a reminder of the power of storytelling — and of Toni Morrison’s role in ensuring African American stories were not only told, but honored.

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The Leesville Diamond Youth Baseball/Softball is reminding families that registration for the upcoming baseball and softball season will close on Feb. 22.

The league is open to players from Weeball divisions through ages 13–15. Registration is $75 per player.

Parents are encouraged to register online at www.leaguelineup.com/leesvillediamondyouthsports before the deadline to ensure their child has the opportunity to participate.

In-person registration is also available at the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office. Those registering in person should ask for Christi Ashworth.

League officials urge the community to share the information to help ensure every child who wants to play has the chance to take the field this season.

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Remember when canceling cable was supposed to save us money? This week’s cartoon takes a playful jab at the modern household budget, where the “Streaming Services” column somehow rivals the mortgage. With platforms multiplying faster than passwords can be remembered, viewers may be wondering if they traded one big bill for five smaller ones that add up even faster. It’s a lighthearted look at subscription overload in the age of endless content — and endless monthly charges.

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Well, here we go again! Only a month and a half into the new year and controversy prevails in the bass tournament world. After a 2025 season full of controversy and one disqualification after another, in the first tournament of the year on Sam Rayburn, once again we have another disqualified winner. As a tournament angler myself, I’m not even sure I can put this into words. 

Are you kidding me? Why and how does the BFL (Cowboy Division) season start off with someone breaking the rules? I would say I’m surprised, but with so many disqualifications this past season, I’m not. 

I’m beyond the shock value of someone getting caught cheating or failing a polygraph. This was something that basically never happened from when I started tournament fishing (1990) till 2020. But over the last six years, it’s becoming the norm, especially in 2025. 

So many anglers today either can’t read or they’re just plain dumb. Tournament bass fishing is not a difficult sport to understand. It’s really quite simple; as an angler all you have to do is READ THE RULES! 

I have been a part of the tournament bass fishing world for over 30 years and never have I seen so many rule breakers and cheaters! Anglers who are willing to do whatever it takes to get into the winner’s circle or cash a check.

The sport has acquired a “win at all costs” mentality. But what’s making me nervous is there seems to be a trend that’s taking place in ALL bass tournament circuits nationwide. Is this a reflection on our society or just the fact that so many anglers feel the odds are in their favor when it comes to NOT getting caught?

Some bass fishing trails offer random polygraphs to a handful of anglers in the tournament no matter what their place of finish. It’s normal for the first-place angler to take a polygraph while other anglers are selected at random by computer. 

There are some organizations that don’t offer polygraph testing due to the cost involved with paying an examiner. These are events that I tend to shy away from, as I’ve seen first-hand that there are anglers out there that will cheat even on a local weeknight three-hour tournament for a $200 first place prize. 

On a sadder note, one angler this past year got caught cheating in a Fisher’s of Men tournament! An organization that is basically an outreach program to bring anglers closer to Christ. 

If you asked those who have cheated why they did it, if they’re honest, I’ll bet it wasn’t just about the money, but more about being recognized as one of the best anglers in their region. Like so many other athletes in sports, it’s all about their ego!

Now understand this, there is a difference between a cheater and rule breaker. Not all violations fall under the category of cheaters. For example, all anglers are required to wear a lifejacket when the big engine is running or the boat is on plane so, if an angler forgets to put on his lifejacket while running from point A to point B, he’s not cheating, but rather he has broken a rule. 

Webster defines a “cheater” as someone who violates rules dishonestly. Bass tournament organizations define it as someone who knowingly decided to break a rule on purpose with the intent of gaining a competitive advantage.  

So, where are we in terms of getting rid of the cheaters in a bass tournament?  First, there must be severe consequences for those that choose to cheat instead of playing by the rules. 

Second, tournament organizations and judges must make examples out of these low-lifes by prosecuting them to the fullest extent of the law. After all, once they walk across that stage and receive a check, they’ve just committed fraud.   

It’s also up the anglers themselves to help police these bass tournaments by reporting anything they see that would be considered breaking a rule or cheating during the tournament. 

If you see suspicious activity like an angler putting fish in a basket under a dock or you find bass that have been tied to a stump on a shallow flat, make sure to report all suspicious activity to the tournament director immediately. 

We can only hope that one day anglers will show more integrity and honesty by following the rules. After all, it’s only a bass tournament, not a matter of life and death.

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About Ida

Beginnings are tricky, but here we are—fresh page, blinking cursor, and a head full of questions. I’m Ida B. Torn, a lifelong Southerner from Kenner, Louisiana, who’s spent years working in newsrooms, design studios, and public service. I’ve seen my share of life’s chaos and comedy—and learned that sometimes, folks just need straight answers and a little laughter along the way.

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November 28, 1931 – February 15, 2026

Billy Gray Jones, age 94, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 15, 2026, with his loving wife of over 73 years by his side. Billy was born on November 28, 1931, in Rosebud, Texas, to Gray Clarence Jones and Ethel Suggs Jones. Billy graduated from Burbank High School in 1949 in San Antonio. After graduation, he joined the United States Army where he was sent to Camp Polk for training and then stationed in Germany where he served as a field medic. While at Camp Polk, he attended a Leesville High football game and met the love of his life, Cordelia Dempsey. He was honorably discharged in July 1952. On October 11, 1952, he and Cordelia were married. He began his life long career with National Cash Register (NCR). This career took him from San Antonio to Uvalde, Monroe, Alexandria, and Beaumont, where he retired after 37 years from NCR. After retirement, Billy and Cordelia moved to Leesville where they have enjoyed life with many friends. They have traveled all across the United States of America visiting every state and also every province in Canada. He was an active member of First Baptist Church of Leesville, where he served as a deacon and also was active on many committees; he also found joy in singing in the choir. Billy was involved with The Gideon’s International. He also served for 20 years as an elections commissioner in Vernon Parish. He enjoyed this position because he got to visit with everyone on election days. Later in life he took up the game of golf. He enjoyed playing with many friends and family at Leesville Municipal Golf Course. Even though he owned a full set of clubs, he only used two of them – his driver and his putter. In Uvalde, Texas, he proudly served as a volunteer firefighter with the Uvalde Volunteer Fire Dept. While in Monroe and Alexandria, Billy was very active with the Jaycees.

Billy was preceded in death by an infant child, Gary Lynn Jones, his parents, his sister Juanita and her husband, Frank Hartman. Billy is survived by his wife, Cordelia Jones, and their three children, David (Jysele), Billy Wayne (Kim), and Sharon (Robert Logan). He is also survived by grandchildren, Heather Jones, Danny Jones (Caroline) , Robert Jones (Donna), Annie Niyigena (Eric), Nicole Shively (Justin), and Mandi Logan. He is also survived by great grandchildren Dawson Jones, Olivia Soileau, Madeline Soileau, Camille Soileau, Chloe Niyigena, Caleb Niyigena, Chase Wyatt, Izaih Wyatt, Izeik Wyatt and one great great grandson, Sterlyng Wyatt.

Also surviving Billy is a brother-in-law A.B. Dempsey (Stacy), two sister-in-law’s, Billie Richard (Sherman), and Dianne Dempsey Legnon and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Billy Gray Jones will be held Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Leesville at 2:00 pm with Pastors Darin Worthington and Jerry Penfield officiating. A visitation will be held from 12:00-2:00 pm to the time of the service. Burial will follow in Castor Cemetery under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service of Leesville.

Serving as pallbearers will be Danny Jones, Dawson Jones, Robert Jones, Eric Niyigena, Robert Logan, and Justin Shively. Honorary pallbearers will be all of the FBC deacons. A very special acknowledgement to all of their many friends that have always been there to help them; especially Gail Wagner, Pat Totten, Gene Lacaze, Dianne Council, Masel Howard, Beaver Moore, Debbie and Randall Smith, Brenda and Charlie Bealer, Jackie and Michelle Self, and Loretta Poe.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staffs of Byrd Regional Hospital, The Woodlands Healthcare Center and Passages Hospice out of Alexandria for their compassionate care and support during Billy’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to First Baptist Church of Leesville.

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