Obituaries

In-page image(s)

Harelson, Jack Randolph "Randy"

Body
Randy was loved for his lifelong passion for art and enthusiasm for all life. He was born in Macon, Georgia on October 4, 1951, the younger son of Jack and Wessie Mae Harelson. He was raised, after age 7, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana where he attended LaSalle Elementary School, the LSU University Laboratory School (Class of 1969) and LSU, where he received a BS in Art Education. In 1973 he moved to Rhode Island to teach art in an innovative “integrated arts in education” program in Attleboro Public Schools and soon immersed himself by serving in other projects and interests including as Exhibit Designer for the Providence Children’s’ Museum and as the lead performer in the kids’ TV show, “All Amaze”. A gardener since childhood, his growing interest in horticulture led him to study at Harvard University’s renowned Arnold Arboretum and to serve as the Assistant Horticulturist for the Blithewold Mansion and Gardens and Arboretum, a 37acre property on Narragansett Bay. Randy later moved to the new community of Seaside, Florida where he opened and managed the Gourd Garden and Curiosity Shop, a nursery and landscape design business which received the S.J. Blakely Award in 2003. He later opened a second shop, the Courtyard, in nearby Rosemary Beach. After the death of his mother in 2006 Randy and his partner, Richard Gibbs, discovered the circa 1800 LeJeune House in New Roads, Louisiana, on what remains of the former 500-acre plantation upon which the town of New Roads was originally formed, and upon which he planted his own arboretum of well-chosen trees and other plants, all documented to have been in Louisiana by 1860. Throughout his life, in addition to his love of horticulture, Randy’s interests were many and varied and would come to include the authorship of 9 published books, at least 4 of which are notable children’s books, including “Amazing Days” and “The Bandanna Book”. He also coauthored and collaborated on multiple other books, notably with eminent photographer Richard Sexton, including “New Roads and Old Rivers” (with Brian Costello), and “Terra Incognita”. Among his many other accomplishments, Randy was active since 2010 as a member, board member and president of the Southern Garden History Society, which fosters and shares research about historic southern gardens, cultural landscapes, and horticultural history. He was instrumental in the continuing mission of the LSU Hilltop Arboretum as a unique educational and cultural facility. He coordinated with LSU Libraries Special Collections on the creation of “Louisiana’s Natural Treasure” an exhibition of selected paintings of Louisiana’s native flora by internationally known Australian naturalist and botanical artist Margaret Stones. Randy was an advocate for the Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation as well as for the restoration of the historic Rosedown Plantation Gardens. He wrote a successful grant for the restoration of the oldest continuingly operational Quaker meeting house in America, located in East Sandwich, Massachusetts, where Randy and Richard have maintained a summer home for many years. Though he grew up in the United Methodist Church, Randy had been a Quaker for the last several years, which is unsurprising to those who knew him well. Randy was a peaceful and loving person whose respect for life is reflected in his many interests, including as a part-time DJ for a local Florida radio station. Some think he cared as much for animals as people, a belief underscored by his 50+ years of vegetarianism. He was a kind and creative soul, spending countless hours sharing unique cards, letters, and music collections with his many and varied friends. With Richard and friends, he traveled worldwide, including many trips to South America and a memorable trip to India. He always followed his bliss, and many were influenced by his joy, having been elevated by his boundless spirit, energy, and deep love of others. Randy was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Clint. He is survived by his lifelong partner, Richard Gibbs, cousins Kay Parnell of Baton Rouge and Quinton Brown of Alabama, his dear friend Margo Eglin, plus hundreds of other friends, creative associates, fellow dreamers and humans and animals of all stripes. He held us all “in the light”. Randy was genuinely grateful for the care he received from his medical team, especially doctors Glenn Hanna, Mark Awad, Christopher McCanless, David Carver, and Gerald Miletello. Funeral arrangements will be managed by Rabenhorst Funeral Home in Baton Rouge. A graveside service was administered by Rev. Chris Andrews on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Roselawn Cemetery in Baton Rouge. A celebration of Randy’s life will be held on Saturday, March 16, 2024, from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. on the lawn of the LeJeune House, 507 E. Main St., New Roads. Donations in Randy’s honor may be made to the Southern Garden History Society, P.O. Box 631, New Roads, LA 70760, or southerngardenhistory.org .
In-page image(s)

Jackson, Rose Albert

Body
Rose Albert Jackson was born to the union of Wilbert and Victoria Albert on January 23, 1949. A retired teacher of the Pointe Coupee Parish School System, she leaves to mourn her passing and treasure her memory, her children Charnel Jackson of New Roads and Vickie Jackson of Prarieville, Louisiana, two granddaughters, Khristy and her husband Rodney Parson of Frisco, Texas and Leah Fields of Prarieville, Louisiana; one great-granddaughter, Kherrigan Parson of Frisco, Texas. Four siblings, Julia Carter of New Roads, Louisiana, Mary Ashford-Chandler of Sugarland, Texas, Ronald Albert and his wife Antoinette of Bear, Delaware, and Gregory Albert and his wife Karla of Geneva, Illinois; two sisters-in-law, Evelyn Albert and Gladys Albert, five goddaughters, Julie Carter, Frederica Taylor, Dawn Richard, Ebony Benton, and Bailey Flowers; and a special cousin Bernadine Flowers. She was proceeded in death by her husband of 42 years, Stanley C. Jackson, Jr., her parents, Wilbert & Victoria Albert, 10 siblings and a host of other relatives and friends. Viewing will be Friday, March 15, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Omega Omega Service - Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated 7:00 p.m. (open to the public). Memorial Tributes immediately following Omega Omega Service. Visitation will continue Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. followed by the funeral at noon officiated by Rev. Dr. Darren Bridgewater. All services will be at 8924 False River Drive, New Roads, LA 70760.
In-page image(s)

Baranco, Lisa Fowler

Body
Mrs. Lisa Fowler Baranco was born and raised in New Roads, La. Longtime resident of Baton Rouge since 1983, passed away March 2, 2024. She was 59 years old. She was a loving wife and an amazing mother. She was a former employee of Pizza Hut, Melrose Elementary School, KB Toys, Kmart and Walmart. Lisa F. Baranco was loved by so many. With her strong faith in GOD, she grew up wanting to be a nun. But met her husband and had 3 beautiful children. She was a very kind hearted person. She always wanted to make people smile, be happy and be there for all in need. Her family will miss her!! Visiting at Verrette Pointe Coupee Funeral Home March 8, 2024 from 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Religious service at Diciples of Christ Worship, March 9, 2024 (viewing 9:00 a.m.) funeral services 11:00 a.m. Followed by burial at Gilberts Memorial Cemetery (Baton Rouge, La). Survived by her daughter, Schyvanda Theresa Baranco, Lafayette, La.; two sons, Ramon Michael Baranco and Robert Gabriel Daigre Baranco III, both of Baton Rouge; sisters, Joyce Wooden, Georgiana Stevenson, Diane Johnson, a sister in-law Edith Baranco, Kenner. Brothers, Kevin Fowler, David Fowler (B.O.), Jason Fowler. Brother in law, David Baranco. Preceded in death by her loving Husband Robert G.D. Baranco Jr.; parents, Herman and Joesphine H. Fowler. Father in law and mother in law Robert G.D. Sr and Barbara Saizon Baranco. A Sister, Schyvanda Theresa Fowler, Brenda Ann Gremillion. A brother in law, Oscar Wooden III, Ernest Gremillion; and nephew Oscar Wooden IV, and Jaelan Fowler. Your family will love and miss you Mrs. Lisa F. Baranco. Everything you were and stood for!! Love you always Ma!! To infinity and beyond. -Your daughter, Schyvanda T. Baranco. “As long as you do your part from the heart, you have nothing to worry about”.Mrs. Lisa F. Baranco.
In-page image(s)

Donovan, Elizabeth 'Dale' Goodson

Body
Our precious mother, Elizabeth “Dale” Goodson Donovan, passed away on Monday, February 26, 2024, at Our Lady of the Lake Hospital in Baton Rouge, LA. She was there when each of her children took their first breaths and her three children, Duane “Frankie” Donovan, Rebecca Hosmer, and Patricia Martinez were there with her when she took her last. Dale is now reunited with the love of her life, Duane Francis Donovan who preceded her in death in November of 2022. Dale and Duane were married 56 years. During that time Duane served in the United States Marine Corps. They made their home wherever the Marine Corps sent them which included Georgia, Hawaii, Arizona, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and South Carolina. Dale also kept watch at home while Duane served in multiple tours in Vietnam. In 2004 Duane and Dale moved to Morganza, LA, which was Duane’s childhood home.Dale was born the youngest child of Katie Thomas Goodson and LeLand Goodson in Camilla, Georgia on September 29, 1946. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents as well as siblings Ralph Goodson, Gene Goodson, Katie Kay, and Ann Turner. She is survived by her three children, son-in-law Atanacio Martinez and her grandson, Patrick Martinez. An avid reader, gardener, and animal lover, Dale devoted her life to her husband and children. A wake including a Rosary was held on Sunday, March 3, 2024, from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Niland’s Funeral Home in New Roads. Visitation resumed at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, March 4 and services began at 11:00 a.m. Interment took place at St. Ann Catholic Cemetery in Morganza and a reception followed in the church hall.
In-page image(s)

Gosserand, Morris M.

Body
MorrisM.Gosserand,affectionately known as Mackey was born on January 8, 1951 in Mix, Louisiana to Agnes DeRogers Gosserand and Joseph Earl Gosserand, Sr. He departed this life and gained his heavenly wings on February 20, 2024 in Cypress, Tx surrounded by his two children from a former marriage to Rachel Ligon. A native and lifelong resident of New Roads, Louisiana were he was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church. Morris was a graduate of Rosenwald High School Class of 1969 and a Class of 1973 graduate of Southern University where he received his bachelor’s degree in accounting. Morris proudly served in the United States Navy and was a Vietnam Veteran. After leaving the military, he worked at Exxon Refinery of Baton Rouge for over 10 years retiring as a plant operator. Over the years Mackey enjoyed working seasonal at The Louisiana Nursery during the holidays and peak seasons. He was an income tax preparer and local baseball umpire for many years. Mackey was also employed for a brief period by Parks and Recreation of New Roads, worked part-time retail at Home Depot of Baton Rouge and Wal-Mart of Port Allen. Mackey will never be forgotten for his unwavering faith, love for his family, down to earth personality, tasty meals, showing kindness, lending a helping hand, and his one of a kind sense of humor. He leaves to cherish his memory, his two children, Damion (Irma) Katy, Tx, and Maya (Bradley) Tomball, Texas; two granddaughters, Katlynn (Houston, Tx) and Brea (Katy, Tx) and one great-grandson, Karter, his two brothers, Joseph (Diane) and John (Ora) both of New Roads, LA and two sisters, Josline(Russell)Harvey, LA and Clorice(Jerome)Stone Mountain, GA; one godchild, Donyalle (Sam) Opelousas, La); his beloved nieces, nephews, other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Earl Gosserand, Sr. Visitation at St. Augustine Catholic Church, on Thursday February 29, 2024 at 9:45 a.m. The Rosary recited at 10:30 am along with the Funeral mass at 11:00 a.m. conducted by Father Benjamin. Following the Funeral mass a Christian burial will be held at the church cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Hall Davis & Sons Baton Rouge.
In-page image(s)

Theriot, Sparling "Sporty" Joseph

Body
A cherished and dedicated husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, has passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 25, 2024 at 4:38 p.m. at Our Lady of The Lake Hospital at the age of 80. He was surrounded by his loving family that meant the world to him and that adored him dearly. Sparling was a native of Port Allen, La., born February 23, 1944 and lived most of his life in Livonia, La. where he raised his family. He retired from the Greater Port of Baton Rouge and went on to driving trucks, which was more like a hobby than a job to him. His favorite things to do was going to Cascare Hunting Club to spend time with his extended family and going hunting every chance he could or was able. Sporty loved being in his shed always fiddling around and finding things to fix or build. But most of all, he enjoyed cutting grass and keeping his yard up. He was an avid fan of classic vehicles and was very proud of his 51 Chevy Truck that he and his family restored together. He never met a stranger and was respected by anyone he met due to his easy going and genuine attitude. Sporty was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He was one of the kindest and toughest men that his family knew. He is loved so much and already deeply missed. He is survived by his sons, Rhett (Tammy) and Kelly (Nancy) Theriot; daughters, Crystal Theriot and Hope (Randy) Bellelo; sisters, Deanne (Wilton) Chenevert and Carolyn (Ray) Blanchard; brother, Donnie Theriot; grandchildren, Jarhett (Colette) Theriot, Jade (Troy) Latiolas, Samantha Theriot, and Angela (Jacob) Rice; two great grandchildren, Raegan Theriot and Arlen Latiolais; and his special friend, Linda Guidroz. He is preceded in death by his wife, Arline Tyler Theriot of 56 years; mother, Hazel Bergeron; father, Paul Theriot; step-father, Roger “Shorty” Bergeron; brothers, Hayward and Kenny Theriot; and his sisters, Ruby Diaz and Melba Theriot. Pallbearers will be Rhett, Kelly, Crystal and Jarhett Theriot, Malcom “Rat” Dukes, and Troy Latiolais. Honorary pallbearers will be the entire Cascare Hunting Club, Randy Bellelo, and Jason Lacombe. A special thanks to the Doctors, nurses and staff of Our Lady of the Lake for all their efforts in his caregiving. The visitation will be held on Thursday, February 29, 2024 at Niland’s Funeral Home in Livonia, La from 4:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. and Friday, March 1, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. The Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Francis Cabrini Catholic Church at 11:00 a.m. The burial will follow in St. Josephs Cemetery in Gross Tete, La.
In-page image(s)

Volta, Ann Odette DeRogers

Body
Ann Odette DeRogers Volta, a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and aunt passed away peacefully at home in New Roads, Louisiana on February 20, 2024. She was affectionally called “N_a_n_n_i_e_” _by her family and friends. Ann was the ninth child born to Phillip and Mary Edith Jacque DeRogers. Ann was united in Holy Matrimony on April 16, 1956 to Russell Volta, and to this union three children were born. She was a faithful member of St. Augustine Catholic Church. She was a 50-plus-year member of Father Harnett Council Ladies Auxiliary Court #41. She was also a former member of the Altar Society and Jolly Senior Citizens. Ann worked tirelessly in the healthcare profession for over 30 years. She was trained in her ministry by the Sisters of St. Joseph at St. Joseph Hospital in New Roads, Louisiana. In 1969, she moved on to Pointe Coupee General Hospital. There she worked as a nurse’s assistant, respiratory therapist, and EKG technician. She excelled in every capacity! After leaving Pointe Coupee General, she continued her love for taking care of others by doing private duty sitting. Ann was always one call away for all of the elderly and neighbors in Curet Subdivision. Ann loved her children and family. She was often teased about having a favorite. We knew she loved us equally! She had a special relationship with all of her nieces and nephews. (Cakes for some, pecan candies, and potato salad for others.) She was the leader of the rosary when we had family telephone conference calls. She enjoyed baking and was known for her delicious caramel and German chocolate cakes. Though her time on earth is done, her legacy lives on through the seeds she sowed. She is survived by her three daughters: Sandra Sneed, New Roads, Louisiana; Edith (Welton) Smothers, New Roads, Louisiana; and Monica Bergeron, Houston, Texas. Two sisters: Mary Ellen Norwood, Ventress, Louisiana; and Doris Dundy, New Roads, Louisiana. Four grandchildren: Andrea Sneed, New Roads, Louisiana; Tiffany (Micheal) Brue, Zachary, Louisiana; Bennette Bergeron, Jr., Houston, Texas; Alaceia Smothers, New Roads, Louisiana. Five greatgrandchildren: David-Micheal, Mekhi and Makayla Brue, and Kimberly and Brennen Bergeron, two godchildren; Carolyn George and Racheal Daisy. A host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Ann is preceded in death by her parents, Philip and Mary Edith Jacque DeRogers; her husband, Russell Volta; eight sisters and two brothers: Edna Smith, Hazel DeRogers, Eloise Brent, Agnes Gosserand, Mary Rose Celestine, Sadie Gauthier, Catherine Spencer, Marjorie Martin, Philip and Ferman DeRogers; five sisters-in-law and twelve brothers-in-law; a son-in-law David Sneed; and two godchildren, Robert Brent III and Helen Celestine.
In-page image(s)

Kendrick Jr., Paul Raymond

Body
Paul Raymond Kendrick, Jr., a native of New Roads, passed away peacefully at St. Clare Manor in Baton Rouge on February 15, 2024. He was 65 years old, born on August 10, 1958 to Paul Raymond and Patsy Doughty Kendrick. He is survived by 1 sister, Susan Bickham married to Richard M. Bickham; 3 brothers, Douglas Kendrick; Jeffrey Kendrick; and James Kendrick, married to Christy Cormier Kendrick. Raymond had one daughter, Jessica Connor married to Sean Connor. He was forever proud of Jessica, Sean, and his three grandsons Cole, Caden, and Cash Connor. Raymond lived an active young life as an outstanding athlete, competing in baseball and basketball. Growing up on False River led to a love of fishing, hunting, and water skiing. After graduating high school, he received a scholarship to play basketball at Baptist Christian College in Shreveport, Louisiana. Raymond had an enormous heart and wonderful sense of humor. He was known to be strong willed at times, which served him well after his tragic diving accident in 1985. During the years that followed, he kept an overcoming mindset and never lost his faith in God. He became a prayer warrior for his family and friends, often praying well into the night hours. 2 Corinthians 4: 16-17 beautifully describes how Raymond came to view his life: “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” Raymond will be missed dearly, but we rejoice that he is running on the streets of Heaven now in his new body. Visitation will be at Niland’s Funeral Home in New Roads on Tuesday, February 27, from 10:00 - 11:00. The Celebration of Life service will immediately follow officiated by Pastor Mark Harrell of Victory Christian Fellowship in Somerset, Kentucky. Pallbearers will be Sean Connor, Kyle Bello, Richard Bickham, Douglas Kendrick, Jeffrey Kendrick, and James Kendrick. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation be sent to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN. 38105.
In-page image(s)

Spencer Sr., William 'Bill' Edward

Body
William “Bill” Edward Spencer Sr., a resident of New Roads, La passed away on February 18, 2024 at the age of 76. Bill worked as a welding inspector for well over 40 years before he went on to retire. He was an avid musician and spent much of his time as a recording artist, giving music lessons to others and also owned his own music store, Top Notch Music Main St. He loved spending time with his family and had a special place in his heart for his in-laws, his wife’s family, the David Family. Many things made Bill happy, his family, children and music being his favorite, but a special treat that could always brighten his day was a good diet coke, thick Hershey bar and a pack of BBQ Fritos. Bill is survived by his wife of 56 years, Susie David Spencer; sons, William Edward Spencer Jr., Ron David Spencer (Michelle), and Markkevin Spencer (Julie); grandchildren, Sabrina, Hayden, Devin, Grant, and Alex Spencer, and Calli and Bryce Phillips; siblings, Ellen Theresa Jarreau (Jessie) and Larry Nelson Hafford(Nancy); and many loved ones. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ellen and William Edward Spencer Sr,; sister, Evelyn Elaine Spencer; and Uncle Bud Keller. Pallbearers were Larry Hafford, William Jr., Ron, Markkevin, Hayden and Grant Spencer. Honorary pallbearers were Devin and Alex Spencer. The visitation was held at Niland’s Funeral Home in New Roads, La on Wednesday, February 21, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. The religious service was held in the funeral home parlor at 11:00 a.m. The burial followed in False River Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.