RSS Feed

NATCHITOCHES PARISH – On Dec. 19 at approximately 7 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a one-vehicle crash on I-49 near Mile Post 141.
The crash claimed the life of 41-year-old Sean Franks Clark of Maurice.
The initial investigation revealed that a 1986 Toyota pickup truck, driven by Clark, was traveling south on I-49.
For reasons still under investigation, Clark’s vehicle traveled off the roadway, entered the southbound ditch and struck a large tree.
Clark, who was unrestrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Routine toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
While the cause of this crash remains under investigation, distracted and inattentive driving continues to be a leading cause of crashes in our state.
Louisiana State Police urges all motorists to stay alert while driving. A lapse in one’s awareness can have deadly consequences.
In 2023, Troop E has investigated 53 fatal crashes, resulting in 59 deaths.

July 21, 1946 - December 13, 2023

ABBEVILLE — Funeral services for Luna Ann Hardy Hills Spencer are scheduled for Thursday, December 21, 2023 for 11 a.m. at Briggs United Methodist Church -- 13528 Community Road (Mouton Cove).  Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until time of service.  Rev. James F. Haynes will officiate the services.  Interment will follow in the church cemetery. 
Mrs. Luna Ann Hardy, Hills, Spencer was born to her late parents Godman Richard Hardy, Sr. and Gracie Mae Mouton Hardy in Mouton Cove, Louisiana. Luna passed away peacefully at her home on December 13, 2023, with family members present.
Luna was baptized at an early age at Briggs United Methodist Church, where she was an active member.  Luna graduated from James Herod High School where she was a member of the choir, band(drums) and a majorette. She married the late Eddie Hills, and to that union four children were born. She received a Bachelor’s Degree from USL and became a substitute teacher at Meaux Elementary School. Luna later moved to San Fernando Valley, California, where she met and married the late Glenn Earl Spencer and had one child. She worked as a Postal Sales Clerk for the Broadway and Macy’s for almost 30 years. Upon her return to Abbeville, LA, she was selected as Commissioner in Charge of Precinct 46-A Parish Government Office.
Luna’s passion was her family and her church. Luna loved to sing and write songs. She wrote poems about those departed for the family. Luna enjoyed game shows, crossword puzzles and anything that challenged her mind.
She leaves to cherish her memory five children, Gracie Hills, Carlton Hills(La Tichia), Melissa Hills, Mary Hills(Jerome), and Sarah Pilette(Brian); eleven grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren, three great-great greandchildren; siblings, Warren Hardy, Connie Hardy, Patsy Mannie(Wayne), Kenneth Hardy, Wayne Hardy, Michael Hardy(Lupe), and Shedrick Hardy; one aunt, Perilla Mouton and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
 She was preceded in death by Grandparents Arthur and Ellen Hardy, sister Emma Jean Hardy, brothers, Claiborne Hardy, Godman Richard Hardy, Jr., Arthur Lenord Hardy, sisters-in-law Elta Mae Hardy, Stacie Hardy,Hazel Levy, Alzena Maze  and grandson, Brandon Hills.
Final arrangements have been entrusted to Kinchen Funeral Home, Inc. – 218 North St. Valerie Street, Abbeville LA.  (337) 898-9595.  Additionally, condolences to the family may be expressed via its website: www.kinchenfuneralhome.com.  

ERATH – Funeral services for Joyce Hargrove Suire, 87, will be held Monday December 18, 2023 at 1:00 PM at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Father Picard will officiate services. Burial will follow in Our Lady of Lourdes Mausoleum.
Visitation will be held at David Funeral Home of Erath on Monday, December 18, 2023 from 8:30 AM until time of services. A Rosary will be recited at 11:00 AM.
In loving memory of Joyce Suire, a remarkable woman whose life was marked by love, family, and a profound impact on those around her. Joyce passed away Thursday, December 14, 2023 surrounded by the warmth of the love she so generously shared throughout her life.
Joyce, a proud 1953 graduate of Glenmora High School, lived a fulfilling life filled with accomplishments, meaningful connections, and cherished moments. Her journey began in Glenmora, Louisiana, where she was the second oldest in a family of eight children. She showcased her athletic prowess as a member of the state championship softball team. These early experiences laid the foundation for a life characterized by resilience and a strong sense of community.
After her high school years, Joyce embarked on a new chapter alongside her husband. While he was stationed in Italy, she embraced the Catholic faith and underwent the sacrament of confirmation by the Bishop of Pisa, Italy. This spiritual commitment became an integral part of her identity and a source of strength throughout her life.
A passionate educator, Joyce dedicated two decades of her life to shaping young minds as a school teacher with the Vermilion Parish School Board. Her impact resonates through the halls of Dozier Elementary School, where she imparted knowledge, wisdom, and a love of learning to countless students.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Joyce found joy and fulfillment in various hobbies. Gardening allowed her to cultivate beauty and tranquility, while her culinary skills manifested in the delicious meals she prepared. Family held a special place in her heart, and she cherished every moment spent with her loved ones. She lit up every room she entered with her smile and gentle demeanor and had a knack for making those around her feel special.
One of Joyce's endearing qualities was her affection for ladybugs, a symbol of good luck and joy. This fondness extended to her granddaughters and great-granddaughters, whom she lovingly referred to as "ladybugs." This charming nickname reflected not only her playful nature but also the deep love and connection she felt for the younger generations of her family.
Joyce is survived by her husband Irving Chris Suire; daughters Suzanne Landry (Ricky), Fran Nunez (Carson), and Geri Bercegeay (Linden); four sisters, Yvonne Logan, Patsy Normand, Elaine Atkinson and Rhonda Conway; and twelve grandchildren, Lance Beal (Haley), Alyssa Credeur (David), D.J. Landry (Kassie), Emily Zamora (Isaac), Jacob Landry, Tressie Barrette, Dr. Jade Nunez (Allie), Beau Nunez (Brittan), Kyle Nunez (Sharla), Mya Nunez, Katie Bercegeay and Adam Bercegeay. She also leaves behind seventeen great grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Otto Hargrove, Sr. and Eva McHenry; a brother, Otto Hargrove, Jr.; and two sisters, Marie Moreaux and Lynda Nedd.
In lieu of flowers the family wishes for donations to be made to St. Jude Childrens Hospital.
The family of Joyce Suire would like to express their deepest gratitude to three remarkable individuals—Debbie, Mandy, and Christine. These dedicated sitters provided unwavering support, care, and companionship to Joyce during a time when their kindness meant the most. The family would also like to thank the team at Heart of Hospice who went above and beyond to ensure that Joyce was comfortable and at peace throughout her journey.
Serving as pallbearers will be Jade Nunez, Lance Beal, Beau Nunez, Kyle Nunez, Adam Bercegeay and Jacob Landry.
Serving as an honorary pallbearer will be D.J. Landry.
You may sign the guest register book and express condolences online at www.davidfuneralhome.org
David Funeral Home 209 E. Putnam Street Erath, La 70533 (337) 937-0405 will be handling the arrangements.

North State Street and the square around the Courthouse will undergo a transformation starting on Dec. 14-15 for a month-long Complete Street Demonstration.
In an effort to enhance safety and promote alternative modes of transportation, the city is advising downtown residents and commuters to exercise caution and be prepared for significant changes as the Complete Streets Demonstration begins on Dec. 14 and continues through mid-January.
The demonstration will introduce changes suggested to make downtown streets safer for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike. These changes are not the final design and are subject to adjustments before the final plan is confirmed.
One of the key modifications includes the installation of a dedicated bike lane starting at South Hollingsworth and extending down North State Street, resulting in the condensation of North State Street to one lane for traffic coming into town.
Drivers are urged to exercise caution during this period as North State Street will be reduced to a single lane to accommodate these enhancements. This temporary one-lane configuration is part of the demonstration’s effort to improve traffic flow and safety.
Around the courthouse square, alterations in parking arrangements will be noticeable, with additional crosswalks and new stop signs added in more places to enhance pedestrian and driver safety.
The wants to emphasize the importance of patience and vigilance during the month-long demonstration. These temporary changes are part of a larger plan to permanently revamp the area, ensuring that the streets are not only safer but also more inclusive for everyone.