Services for five area residents were held on Saturday, July 26, 2025, in separate locations throughout Ouachita Parish.
Willie Jewel Cotton, 90, of Monroe, was honored in a funeral service at the Mt. Olivet Baptist Church. She died on July 14, 2025. She was survived by six children and a host of family and friends. Rev. O.W. Billups, Jr. delivered her eulogy and depicted her life as “Poetry in motion.” Her services were handled by the Richardson Funeral Home.
Emma Lewis Daniel, 86, of West Monroe, was remembered in service at Piney Grove Baptist Church in West Monroe. She died July 17, 2025. Visitation was held on Friday, July 25, at Mt. Gilead Baptist Church in West Monroe. Interment followed at Hasley Cemetery under the direction of Smith Funeral Home.
Anthony Thomas, Jr., 78, of Sterlington, was honored in a service held at St. James Baptist Church in Sterlington. He passed away on July 16, 2025. Visitation took place Friday, July 25, at Smith Funeral Home. Burial was in Richwood Gardens in Richwood under the direction of Smith Funeral Home.
Rachelle L. Jefferson, 39, of Monroe, died July 9, 2025. Her service was conducted at First Pilgrim Baptist Church in Monroe. Visitation was held Friday evening at Smith Funeral Home. Burial followed at Magnolia Cemetery in Monroe, also under the direction of Smith Funeral Home.
James Earl Willis, 69, of Monroe, was celebrated in a service at Logtown Baptist Church in Monroe. He died on July 14, 2025. Visitation was held Friday, July 25, at Smith Funeral Home. Final interment was in Richwood Gardens in Richwood, directed by Smith Funeral Home.
