The Monroe and Richwood communities recently gathered to celebrate the lives of several cherished residents who passed away during the holiday season, each leaving behind meaningful legacies of service and dedication.
Lavern Hester
Lavern Robert “Knockout” Hester, 87, a pillar of the Richwood community, passed away on December 28, 2024. His remarkable life of service included over 50 years as owner and manager of Hester Central State Funeral Home, where he provided compassionate care to countless families.
A proud Southern University graduate, Hester dedicated his early career to education as a teacher and coach.
His commitment to public service extended to 25 years as an alderman for the Town of Richwood. Services were held at Pleasant Green Baptist Church, where he was a lifelong member, with burial following at Richwood Memorial Gardens.
Rev. Willie Hunter, Sr.
The community also mourned the loss of Willie Hunter Sr., who passed away at the age of 97. Hunter’s life was celebrated in a service at St. James Baptist Church in Richwood on January 4, with burial at Richwood Gardens under Smith Funeral Home’s direction.
Betty Chisley
Betty Chisley Boley, 66, was remembered in a service at Liberty Christian Center in Monroe on January 4. Boley’s final resting place is also at Richwood Gardens, with Smith Funeral Home handling arrangements.
Erlean Nickels
A memorial service for Erlean Sapp Nickels, 80, was held on January 5 at St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church in West Monroe, under the direction of Smith Funeral Home.
James Hawkins
James Hawkins, 51, of Monroe, died November 11, 2024. Grave Side Service will be 1:00 PM Thursday January 09, 2025. Burial in Magnolia Cemetery, Monroe, under the direction of Smith Funeral Home.
Steven A. Cox
Steven A. Cox “Big Steve”, 74, of West Monroe, Retired Graphic Package employee, died December 28, 2024. Service will be 11:00 AM Saturday, January 11, 2025, at Trenton Baptist Church, West Monroe, LA. Visitation is from 3:00 until 5:00 PM, Friday, January 10, 2025, at Smith Funeral Home. Burial in Hasley Cemetery, West Monroe, LA., under the direction of Smith Funeral Home.
These individuals, each in their own way, contributed to the fabric of their communities, leaving behind legacies that will be remembered by those whose lives they touched. Their passing marks the end of an era for many in the Monroe and Richwood areas, but their impact on the community will endure through the lives they influenced and the work they accomplished.
