Everyone’s racing to hit the Assumptions button like it’s a reflex… while the big red FACTS buzzer just sits there, untouched.
Cue the game show music. Cue the dramatic pause.
Wrong answer, but thanks for playing.
In real life, jumping to conclusions doesn’t win prizes — it just spreads confusion. Accountability starts when we slow down, check the facts, and resist the urge to react first and think later.
Lately, during the extremely cold weather that we experienced a couple of weeks ago, I took some time to watch a few fishing podcasts. There are a handful of programs that I follow from top anglers within the world of professional bass fishing.
One of these is “After the Cast” with Major League Fishing pros Andy Montgomery, Edwin Evers and Ott DeFoe, strong personalities and great reputations for not only being outstanding anglers, but good Christians.
Their podcast is a behind the scenes look at the daily rigors that tournament anglers go through from the travel they face, to practice and tournament days.
But they’ll also sit down and talk about hot topics going on in bass fishing. They’re not afraid to voice their opinions and share their thoughts which makes the podcast very interesting to watch.
Another podcast I follow is “Zaldangerous,” also known as “The Bilge,” a program with Elite Series angler and Texas pro Chris Zaldain and his wife, Trait. These two do not shy away from controversial topics and are not afraid to challenge the establishments of B.A.S.S. or Major League Fishing (MLF) when it comes to rules violations or recent decisions that have been made with regards to a tournament organization.
Both podcasts, “After the Cast” and “Zaldangerous,” are programs that anyone would enjoy. They’re both great at shedding light on the hot topics in professional bass fishing while discussing possible solutions.
These are people “living the dream” by fishing for a living. They travel like gypsies and caravan across the country, fishing the best fisheries in America. They discuss today’s anglers and how to navigate the demands of professional bass fishing.
But their biggest concern is trying to provide for their families as a pro fisherman. So many of today’s anglers face obstacles that previous generations did not. First and foremost, how to navigate social media. This is a problem the older generation of anglers never had to deal with.
All three professional bass tournament organizations require that all anglers participate in social media. This can be in many forms like a podcast, Facebook page, YouTube videos, Tik Tok or maybe an Instagram account.
In today’s business world, it’s important that anglers have a social media presence as a way of promoting sponsor product and themselves as well. Of course, we all know that social media can be a place of controversy with people who are looking to discredit or cast blame on others for a particular situation.
Having a great social media presence is all about how many “clicks” or “likes” you’re getting with the posts you’re making. A really good account can translate into valuable dollars. It’s also another avenue where anglers can make money to help supplement their income.
But here’s a question — can the average angler make it as a professional bass fisherman today? The biggest issue facing anglers today are with sponsors; there just are not enough to go around. Sponsors are a critical part of how anglers make a living and provide for their families. Tournament winnings are just a bonus for anglers and are not factored into their annual budgets.
The fishing industry in general is just not big enough to support all the anglers looking to fish professionally. Most are stretched very thin with regards to how many anglers they can afford to sponsor.
The industry is short on sponsorship dollars with there being three major professional bass fishing organizations — Major League Fishing (MLF), B.A.S.S. and the new National Professional Fishing League (NPFL).
Anglers today are having to think outside the box and look at nonendemic companies that may have never had a presence in the bass fishing market.
Back during the old FLW days (2000 to 2012), there was Walmart, Land of Lakes, Kellogg’s, Snickers, Castro Motor Oil and many more that sank huge amounts of money into many of the old FLW Tour anglers.
But ever since the demise of the FLW Tour around 2012, these sponsors have chosen to walk away and are no longer interested in this market, leaving a huge sponsorship void for anglers to pursue.
Less sponsors means a bigger strain on anglers’ budgets as they try to navigate the costs involved with making a living as a professional.
Bottom line is this: with a shortage of sponsors it makes it very difficult for the average angler to participate on the professional level. It’s sad but it’s starting to look like only those anglers who have money, have a good financial support system like mom or dad, or wealthy grandparents will be the anglers who can compete on bass fishing’s highest level.
As the old saying goes, “money can’t buy happiness,” but it can buy you a spot on a bass pro tour!
In 1957, after years of bit parts in numerous films and television shows, Thomas was cast as Lana Turner’s love interest in the film “Another Time, Another Place.” In the second week of October 1957, Lana’s boyfriend Johnny Stompanato, a former marine who was a bodyguard and enforcer for mob boss Mickey Cohen, flew from Los Angeles to Cornwall, England, to be with her for the remainder of filming. For three months, Johnny watched from the sideline as the chemistry between Thomas and Lana grew. Thomas and Lana played their parts so well for the camera that Johnny became increasingly suspicious and jealous. Around New Year’s Day 1958, while Lana and Thomas were filming an intimate scene, Johnny’s jealousy could take no more. He rushed on screen, pointed a pistol at Thomas’s head, and threatened him to stay away from Lana. In a split-second move, Thomas forcefully disarmed Johnny. Thomas was aware of Johnny’s underworld connections and knew to expect a reprisal of some sort.
Lana was not a pushover by any means. When her marriage to Lex Barker broke down six months earlier, she forced him at gunpoint to leave her home. Lana had Johnny removed from the film set and contacted police who quickly deported Johnny from England. He was back in Hollywood by January 4, 1958. Despite this incident, Lana and Johnny remained on speaking terms. According to letters between Lana and Johnny, Lana wanted space. In a letter dated January 15, 1958, Lana wrote to Johnny, “You must let me alone in my own world for a while, to rest, think, rest, think… I need the time and a different place to funnel thru all the emotional turmoil I’ve been through.” Johnny had no intention of giving her the space she requested. He wanted to marry. Johnny wrote to Lana, “Let me prove that you and I belong together.” In another letter he wrote, “Every second of every day since you have been gone, I’ve thought of nothing but you and your kisses.” Johnny persuaded Lana’s 14-year-old daughter Cheryl to help convince Lana to marry him. On a letter dated April 3, 1958, Cheryl wrote to Johnny, “I just got your letter this morning because I was home for the weekend. How have you been? …When are you all coming back? Soon, I Hope. Mother and I really had a wonderful time in Europe.” She ended the letter, “Love ya and miss ya loads, Cherie.” She only had a short time to wait.
On the following day, April 4, Cheryl and Lana were at their home in Beverly Hills when Johnny stopped by for another attempt at convincing Lana to rekindle their romance and marry him. Johnny’s sweetness quickly turned to rage when he realized she could not be convinced. Johnny grabbed Lana and shook here while he cursed and threatened her. Cheryl heard Johnny yell, “I’ll get you if it takes a day, a week, or a year. I’ll cut your face up. I’ll stomp you. And if I can’t do it myself, I’ll find somebody who will.” As Johnny continued his tirade over Lana, Cheryl grabbed a 10-inch butcher knife and sank it to the hilt into Johnny’s abdomen. He died moments later. Cheryl was not prosecuted because a coroner’s jury deemed the killing a justifiable homicide. Mob boss Mickey Cohen linked Johnny’s death back to the altercation in which Thomas disarmed Johnny in a move similar to what we would expect to see in a James Bond film. Well, Thomas eventually became James Bond. His full name was Thomas Sean Connery.
Sources:
1. San Francisco Chronicle, October 1, 1957, p.25.
2. Berwick, PA., Enterprise, October 15, 1957, p.4.
3. The New London, Connecticut Evening Day, January 4, 1948, p.16.
4. The Akron Beacon Journal, April 5, 1958, p.1.
5. The Oregonian, April 11, 1958, p.10.
6. Los Angeles Times, April 12, 1958, p.1.
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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February 11 marks the birthday of one of the most influential voices in modern music history: Whitney Houston. Born on this date in 1963, Houston’s impact on pop culture extends far beyond record sales, reshaping the sound of popular music and redefining what vocal excellence looked like for generations that followed.
Rising to fame in the mid-1980s, Houston quickly became a cultural force. Her 1985 self-titled debut album produced multiple chart-topping singles and introduced audiences to a voice that blended pop accessibility with gospel power. At a time when female pop artists were often boxed into narrow roles, Houston crossed genres effortlessly, finding success on pop, R&B, adult contemporary, and international charts simultaneously.
Her influence wasn’t limited to music. Houston’s presence on television and in film helped expand representation in mainstream entertainment. Her starring role in The Bodyguard (1992) cemented her status as a crossover superstar, while the film’s soundtrack became one of the best-selling albums of all time. Songs like “I Will Always Love You” became cultural touchstones, played at weddings, graduations, sporting events, and moments of public mourning.
February 11 also invites reflection on Houston’s broader cultural legacy. She broke barriers for Black women in pop music during an era when radio formats were more rigidly segregated. Her success opened doors for countless artists who followed, including Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, Jennifer Hudson, and Adele, all of whom have cited Houston as a major influence.
Even decades after her peak, Houston’s voice remains a benchmark. Viral clips of her live performances continue to circulate online, often sparking renewed appreciation from younger audiences discovering her for the first time. Vocal coaches, music critics, and fans alike frequently reference her control, tone, and emotional delivery as unmatched.
While Houston’s life also included public struggles, her artistic legacy continues to overshadow controversy. Each year on February 11, fans around the world revisit her catalog, celebrate her achievements, and reflect on how deeply her music is woven into shared cultural memory.
In an industry that constantly evolves, Whitney Houston’s voice remains timeless — and February 11 serves as a reminder of the day one of pop culture’s greatest legends was born.
October 7, 1965 – February 9, 2026
Teresa Raymer Cherry was born October 7, 1965, in Missouri and passed away February 9, 2026, in Leesville, Louisiana at the age of 60. She spent her childhood in Paris, Tennessee and was a dedicated healthcare worker practicing as a Certified Nurse’s Aid for 20 years. She retired to Leesville, LA with her adoring husband, Dennis Cherry, to be near his family. For the last several years she had kept vegetable gardens for family and friends. Then, around 2016, she began helping with the preservation and restoration of “Catalpa”, the cherished Smart Plantation house (circa 1855). Her attention to details, especially hand painted elements of the old house, was unsurpassed. She seldom complained, taking her disabilities and pains in stride. She will be remembered and terribly missed. Her’s was a simple and humble life, exemplary and sweet. She was saved by the grace of God, and her family is looking forward to seeing her again in heaven.
Teresa was preceded in death by her sisters, Tina Raymer and Marcia Raymer and nephews, Jeremy Raymer and Brandon Raymer.
Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, James Dennis Cherry of Anacoco, LA; sons, Chris and Wesley Paige of Paris, TN;
parents, Larry and Linda Raymer of Dover, TN; brother, Larry Don Raymer II (Daphne) of Mumfford, TN; and extended family members and friends.
Teresa’s cremation was entrusted to Jeane’s Funeral Service of Leesville.
October 14, 1975 – February 8, 2026
Michael Wayne Oates was born October 14, 1975, in Jasper, Texas and passed away February 8, 2026, at the age of 50. He could be described as a giant man because he stood 6 feet seven inches, but he was also a giant teddy bear with a big smile. Michael loved everybody, never met a stranger, and loved to talk. Watching sports was his favorite hobby – especially basketball, baseball, and wrestling. His dog, B. D., and his aunt’s dog, Flash, were important to him. Most of all, he loved his mama, and she will greatly miss her amazing son.
Michael was preceded in death by his fathers, Warren David Oates and Mack Clark; grandparents, Virginia Wilkerson Richards, Allen Richards, Myrtle Louise Oates, and Warren Durwood Oates; and cousin, Jennifer Sanchez.
Those left to cherish his memory are his mother, Mary Lou Clark; aunts, Ruby Martinez Rodriguez and husband Ellis, Patsy Self and husband Tony, Brenda Wall, Katherine Gilbert and husband Darrell, and Rita Rye; and cousins, Christina Oates, James Sparkman, Keisha Lago, Clint Gilbert, Nathan Gilbert, Richard Wall, and Rachel Mitchell.
October 18, 1940 – February 8, 2026
Linda Estelle Larson Westeen was born October 18, 1940, in Roseau, Minnesota and passed away February 8, 2026, in Leesville, Louisiana at the age of 85. She was one of ten children born to her parents, Oscar Larson and Edith Mattson Larson, and when she was young her family traveled through many states for her father’s employment. After marrying Loyal Odell Westeen, she became a devoted wife and mother who cared for her family as they followed Loyal throughout the south as he oversaw various construction projects. Linda had a strong Lutheran Faith and was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Leesville where she volunteered for many offices. She had a friendly personality and wanted to help people which she did while being a member of the LWML organization at her church and in her everyday life. Being outside in the sunshine working in her yard or watching the birds and squirrels was something she enjoyed. The greatest joy in her life was caring for her family, and they will be blessed by the legacy of love and faith she left for them.
Linda was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and numerous siblings.
Those left to cherish her memory are her children, Andrew James Westeen (Elaine), Lesa Westeen Perkins (Perry), Libby Holmes (David), and Laurie Holt (Russell); sister, Loretta Grothe; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held for Linda at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Leesville.
October 27, 2025 – February 5, 2026
A memorial service for Athena Faith Quintana-Pearman will be held on February 14, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Jeane Funeral Service. A visitation be held an hour before the service.
Athena Faith Quintana-Pearman was born on October 27, 2025 to Billy and Maria Pearman. She passed from this life on February 5, 2026. Though her life on this side of heaven was brief, she was a warrior princess and fought hard through any diagnosis she may have faced. She was loved immensely and will be missed by all her family.
Preceding Athena in death are her grandparents Donald and Eva Pearman, and great-grandma Rafeala Quintana.
Those left to cherish her memory are her parents Billy Pearman and Maria Pearman; brothers Trevor Pearman and Alexander Pearman, and a host of family members.
Cremation has been entrusted to Jeane’s Funeral Service of Leesville.
Richard Manaen Rockhold
Service held on Feb. 10
Mary Tena Joshlin Smart
Service held on Feb. 9
Athena Faith Quintana-Pearman
Service: February 14, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Jeane Funeral Service
Joyce Denell Collins Weeks
Service: Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 12:30 PM at Rosepine United Pentecostal Church
Kenneth Wray Horn Jr.
Service: February 15, 2026 at 3:30 PM at Jeane’s Funeral Service of Leesville
Linda Estelle Westeen
Service: Monday, February 16, 2026 at 11 am at Trinity Lutheran Church in Leesville
Stieve Eugene Holley
Service: Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 1 PM at Hornbeck Bible Baptist Church
Larry D. Lewis, Sr.
Service: Friday, February 13, 2026 at 11 AM at Mount Hermon Baptist Church in Lena
Teresa Raymer Cherry
Teresa’s cremation was entrusted to Jeane’s Funeral Service of Leesville.
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).
Federal prosecutors announced a sweeping indictment at a Feb. 9 press conference, charging 11 individuals for their alleged involvement in a large, multi-parish drug trafficking organization operating across central Louisiana.
The investigation began in late fall 2024 after the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office initiated a comprehensive narcotics probe targeting drug trafficking organizations operating locally and in surrounding parishes. As the investigation expanded, authorities partnered with multiple local, state, and federal agencies to increase the scope and effectiveness of enforcement efforts.
Participating agencies included the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Louisiana State Police, U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Forest Service, and sheriff’s offices from Vernon, Sabine, Rapides, Grant, Concordia, and Natchitoches parishes, along with local police departments.
According to federal officials, the coordinated investigation led to the disruption of several supply chains originating outside Louisiana and multiple takedowns of local distribution sources. Authorities say the operation significantly reduced the flow of illegal drugs into Vernon Parish and neighboring communities.
On Jan. 21, 2026, a federal grand jury in Lafayette returned a 12-count indictment charging the defendants with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine. The indictment also alleges that at least one individual possessed more than 2,000 fentanyl pills intended for distribution within the Western District of Louisiana. Prosecutors further allege that cell phone communication facilities were used to facilitate the drug trafficking operation.
All 11 defendants have been arrested and are currently in federal custody.
The individuals named in the indictment are:
Detrail Harris
Kameron Harris
Barry Pearson
Frank Coleman Jr.
Earl Thompson, also known as Nook
Michael Womack
Sevesta Sweet
Charles Jackson
Andrew Bulloch
Craig Hopkins
Buford Sawyer, also known as Dog Pound
Federal authorities emphasized that the indictment contains allegations only and that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The case is filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Louisiana under docket number 26-CR-27. Officials noted the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges or arrests may follow.
Sheriff Sam Craft of the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office announces recent arrests made by VPSO.
February 2, 2028
Caleb Ingalls, age 23, of Pitkin, was arrested on an outstanding Bench Warrant from the State of Missouri. Ingalls remains in the VPSO jail awaiting extradition to Missouri.
February 3, 2026
Reggie Alan Fee, age 28, of Pitkin, was arrested and charged with one count of Criminal Trespass and one count of Theft of a Motor Vehicle. Bond has not been set and Fee remains in the VPSO jail.
February 4, 2026
Andrew Koury Gilland, age 36, of Leesville, was arrested and charged with one count of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals. Bond has not been set and Gilland remains in the VPSO jail.
Eric Hunter Stanley, age 31, of Hornbeck, was arrested on an out of jurisdiction Bench Warrant from Sabine Parish. Stanley was transferred from the VPSO jail to Sabine Parish.
ALL PERSONS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.
The Vernon Parish School Board recognized its Principals of the Year during the board’s Feb. 5 meeting, honoring school leaders from across the parish.
Ami Green of Parkway Elementary School received the Elementary Principal of the Year award. Whitney Mawae of Anacoco High School was named Middle School Principal of the Year, and Tiffany Holt of Pitkin High School was recognized as High School Principal of the Year.
The board acknowledged each principal for their leadership, dedication to students and staff, and their positive impact on school culture and academic success throughout Vernon Parish.
The Vernon Parish School Board recognized its District Level Teacher of the Year recipients during its Feb. 5 meeting, honoring educators from across the parish for their dedication and excellence in the classroom.
The honorees included Kiersten Nolan of Hicks High School as Elementary Teacher of the Year, Rebecca Robbins of Leesville High School as High School Teacher of the Year, Brittany Hill of Rosepine Elementary School as Early Childhood Teacher of the Year, and Amanda King of Anacoco High School as Middle School Teacher of the Year.
School board members recognized each educator for their commitment to student success and their positive impact on their school communities. The district-level recognition highlights outstanding teaching across all grade levels within Vernon Parish schools.
February is a lively time to visit Vernon Parish, where community traditions, family-friendly events, and local culture come together in Louisiana’s Legend Country. From Mardi Gras celebrations to markets, author talks, and pageants, Leesville is full of ways to spend a winter weekend exploring, connecting, and celebrating.
Mardi Gras fun takes center stage on February 14th when the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce Mardi Gras Parade rolls down historic Third Street in Downtown Leesville at 2pm. Expect colorful floats, throws, and a festive atmosphere that makes this parade a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
https://vernonparish.org/event/greater-vernon-chamber-of-commerce-mardi-gras-parade/
That same Saturday, start your morning at the Leesville Main Street Market, held weekly from 8am–1pm on Third Street. Shop fresh produce, handmade goods, and local crafts, with Second Saturday adding extra family activities and fun.
https://vernonparish.org/event/third-street-market-3/
Literary lovers can head to the Vernon Parish Library on February 14th from 10–11:30am for an author talk and autograph session with Louisiana author Curt Iles, who will share insights from his Pineywoods-inspired books and stories of redemption. The library also hosts a special presentation on February 16th from 10–11:30am, telling the story of No Man’s Land outlaw John Murrell in the library meeting room.
https://vernonparish.org/event/author-talk-and-autograph-program-curt-iles/
https://vernonparish.org/event/no-mans-land-outlaw-john-murrell/
The month wraps up with the MayFest Legends & Outlaws Pageant on February 28th at the Vernon Parish Fairgrounds, where contestants of all ages compete for MayFest titles, honoring the music, folklore, and traditions of this historic area.
https://vernonparish.org/event/mayfest-pageant/
Looking ahead, be sure to mark your calendar for the Louisiana Moonshine Festival Pageant, set for March 7th at the Leesville Event Center. This event kicks off Moonshine Festival month, with pageantry, tradition, and local pride, making it a great reason to plan a return visit to Vernon Parish this spring.
https://vernonparish.org/event/moonshine-pageant/
Whether you’re catching a parade, browsing the market, learning from local authors, or cheering on pageant contestants, February is the perfect time to experience the heart of Vernon Parish. Plan a weekend getaway, explore Leesville, and discover why winter is anything but quiet in Louisiana’s Legend Country.
Alexis Jeter and AJ Turner were recognized as Honesty and Integrity Award winners by Anacoco Masonic Lodge Post No. 147, honoring their strong character and commitment to doing the right thing.
August 5, 1966 – February 4, 2026
Funeral services for Russell Alan Austin will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Hornbeck First Baptist Church with Reverends Jason Lupo and Jack Bell officiating. The burial will follow in Prewitts Chapel Cemetery under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service. Serving as pallbearers will be Christopher Austin, Cody Austin, Logan Hughes, Eric Beverly, Bobby Hooks, Joey Williams, Thomas Gaskin, and Jody Browning.
A visitation will be held at Hornbeck First Baptist Church on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service.
Alan was born August 5, 1966, in Zwolle, Louisiana and passed away February 4, 2026, at his home in Hornbeck, Louisiana at the age of 59. He spent most of his life living in Converse before moving to Hornbeck.
Alan was a man whose presence felt like home to everyone who knew him. He carried joy as if it were his first language — effortless, genuine, and freely given. His smile could light up a room before he ever spoke, and his hugs had a way of making people feel safe, valued, and deeply loved. He fit into the lives of others so naturally that even a few short years of friendship felt like a lifetime. Alan never asked for anything in return; his kindness, generosity, and sweet spirit were simply who he was. He was a steady rock for his wife Stacy and a constant source of love and encouragement for their children and grandchildren, offering unwavering support through every season of life.
Alan dedicated more than 30 years of hard work to the oil field, a career that reflected his strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to serve others without complaint. Most recently, he worked as a service technician with Apeck Construction, where his skill, dependability, and friendly nature left a lasting impression on coworkers. Those who knew him describe a man with a heart larger than himself — someone whose laughter made heavy days lighter and whose goodness never felt complicated.
Alan gave his life to Christ and was baptized at Hornbeck First Baptist Church, a decision that guided his final months with a willingness to share his faith. Even during his recent stay at MD Anderson, he continued to share his faith by praying with nurses and doctors. Above all titles and accomplishments, the role he treasured most was being “Pappy” to his grandchildren, a name that brought him his greatest joy and pride.
Alan was preceded in death by his parents, Larry and Joan Austin; daughter, Brittany Hughes; and brother-in-law, Stoney Raborn.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Stacy Austin of Hornbeck, LA; sons, Christopher Austin (Christina) of Converse, LA, Cody Austin of Converse, LA, and Logan Hughes (Alex) of Pace, FL; grandchildren, Kayden, MaKenlie, Lynleigh, Skylynn, Haigen, Harper, Waylon, Caralynn, Felcity, and Dinah; brother, Rodney Austin (Cheryl) of Converse, LA; sister, Kari Raborn of Converse, LA; and a host of extended family members and friends.
Funeral services for Verla Mae Burleson Micale will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, February 9, 2026, at East Leesville Baptist Church with Reverend Gil Arthur, Reverend Doug Dixon, Dr. Tommy Kiker, and Chaplain William “Bill” Tisdale officiating. The burial will follow in Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery under the direction of Jeane’s Funeral Service. Serving as pallbearers will be D.J. Brown, Donald Roy Perkins, Ben Iles, Roy Sons, Rick Jones, and Michael LeJeune. The honorary pallbearers will be Robert “Bob” Westmoreland and Donnie Perkins.
A visitation will be held at East Leesville Baptist Church on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.
Verla was born and raised in Kistachie, Louisiana and graduated from Kistachie High School in 1952 then earned a degree from a business college in Lake Charles, Louisiana in bookkeeping. During her career as a bookkeeper, she worked for Transit Bus Company, Roger Auto Parts, and Holicer Gas Company all of Leesville, Louisiana.
Verla was a Godly lady who loved her church, family, and everyone she came in contact with. You would always find her doing embroidery projects, word searches, and playing cards with family and friends. Also, she loved working in her yard and garden, and you would often see her sitting on her porch in her rocking chair.
Those preceding her in death were her husband of 50 years, Samuel C. Micale; daughters, Cindy Salvatore, Debra L. McWhirt, and Sandra K. Lewis; parents, James and Lula Burleson; brothers, Lester Burleson and Homer Burleson; sisters, Tru Dell Mullen and Exie Burleson; nephew, Donald Ray Burleson; and niece, Diane Brown.
Left to cherish her memory are daughters, Denise L. Waddell of DeRidder, LA and Anne Marie Micale of Leesville, LA;
grandchildren, Christina Feldkamp (Tom), Shannon Willis (Greg), Ashley Cushing, Kyle Waddell Jr., Notley Mark Lewis II (Sarah), Shane H. Waddell (Dustie), Samantha Haymon Marker (Kyle), James Lewis, and Chelsea McWhirt Elsey (Nathan);
great-grandchildren, Aubree Marker, Paulyanna Lewis, Notley Mark Lewis III, Kayden Willis, Bentley Willis, A.J. Feldkamp, Amelia Waddell, and Hadley Mae Waddell; brother-in-law, James Eugene Micale of Liverpool, NY; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Verla’s family would like to thank The Compassionate Care of Alexandria Hospice team and all the nurses, aides, doctors, and social workers for their love and support during the care of their mother.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Verla’s memory to either St. Jude Children’s Hospital (www.stjude.org) or Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home and Family Ministries (www.lbch.org).
Andrea Lafoe Reibold
Service: Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 11 am at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville
Verla Mae Micale
Service: Monday, February 9, 2026 at 12 pm at East Leesville Baptist Church
Russell Alan Austin
Service: Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 1 pm at Hornbeck First Baptist Church
JoAnn Moore Coon
Service: Saturday, February 7 at 10 a.m. at First United Pentecostal Church of Leesville
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).
The Leesville Police Department is conducting an investigation after a deceased individual was discovered behind a local business.
Officers responded to the scene and confirmed the identity of the individual. Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing and the Leesville Police Department is being assisted by the Vernon Parish Coroner’s Office.
Police also thanked Acadian Ambulance Service and the Leesville Fire Department for their assistance at the scene.
Officials said additional information will be released as it becomes available and when appropriate. Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Leesville Police Department.