White Oaks Funeral Home LLC

01/19/2026

Judge Clarence Kennedy

01/16/2026

Ella “AKA JJ” Rene Douglas

Funeral service for Ella “AKA JJ” Rene Douglas will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, January 19, 2026, at Freedom Baptist Church with Reverend Jeff James and Brother Greg Strother officiating. Interment will follow in the Occupy #1 Cemetery under the direction of White Oaks Funeral Home, Oakdale, LA.

Ella, 82 years of age, resident of DeRidder, passed away in the “Our Lady of Lourdes Heart Hospital in Lafayette on Monday, January 12, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. Ella was born to Autumn Ray & Margie Willis Ray on April 19, 1942, in Pitkin, LA.

Ella had a beautiful soul and kindness that exuded from her. She was a cherished member of her family, community and her work family at the Coushatta Casino as Kitchen Manager for many years. She was known for her vibrant spirit and unwavering love for life’s adventures, particularly fishing. She found peace and joy in spending time by the water, casting a line with the hope that every catch would be “the big one”. Her love for fishing was only rivaled by her enjoyment of games of chance. Whether it was playing cards with friends, or trying her luck at slots, she enjoyed the excitement and thrill of gambling. She found her truest peace not in the quiet of a room, but in the vibrant embrace of the earth, where every bloom was a testament to the love she poured into her garden. Though her voice has been silenced, her laughter and spirit will echo in the hearts of everyone who knew her.

She is proceeded in death by her mother & father, and son, Wilburn “Bubba” Douglas, and brothers and sisters, Annie Perkins, Odom Ray, John Ray, Oma Davis, and Daisy Johnson.

Those left behind to cherish her memories are her loving husband, of 45 years of Wilburn “Doug” Douglas of DeRidder; children, Anita Baird & husband, Bill of Pennsylvania; Shannon Ray Douglas of DeRidder; Leddy Ann Ballard of Pennsylvania; Anthony John Douglas of Arkansas; Debra Enzmann of Tracy, CA; Kevin Evans & wife, Mcshell of Cotile Lake; Shannon Paul Derouen & wife, Halston of DeRidder; two brothers, Autumn Ray Jr & wife, Ruthie of Pitkin; Alton “Bobie” Ray of Pitkin; sister, Loma Nolen of Pitkin; 29 grandchildren, and 29 great grandchildren.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be John Davis, Dusin DeRouen, C**t Brandon, Timothy Laird, Michael Paul Ray, Chad Ray, Ricky Brown, and Richard Davis.

Visitation will be on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Freedom Baptist Church from 2:00 PM until time of service on Monday, January 19, 2026, at 11:00 AM in the church.

01/13/2026

Sherian Strother graveside service at Oakdale Cemetery tomorrow, Wednesday, January 14, gathering at 1:30 pm and graveside services at 2:00 pm.

01/13/2026

01/09/2026

ALICE FAYE MARTIN

Funeral service for Alice Faye Martin will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Glenmora First United Pentecostal Church with Reverend Brandon Goynes officiating. Interment will follow in the Butter Cemetery in Forest Hill under the direction of White Oaks Funeral Home, Oakdale, LA.

Faye, as she was lovingly known, was 76 years of age. She passed away in the Rapides Regional Medical Center on Thursday, January 8, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. Alice was born to Lester & Lucille Strong on April 2, 1949, in Alexandria, LA.

Faye cherished spending time with her family. She engaged in a variety of activities that brought joy and laughter to her days. She spent hours fishing, playing cards, and spirited rounds of Yahtzee with her girls. Alice also had a passion for dancing, often filling her home with music and laughter. In addition, she found great satisfaction in tending to her yard and flower beds, creating beautiful outdoor spaces that reflected her love for nature and hard work. “To know her was to love her!” She will be sadly missed by all.

She is proceeded in death by her husband, Johnnie Wayne Martin; parents; two sisters, Norcille “Moosie” Dewitt, and Ann “Punk” Snow; and one brother, Lester Strong II.

Those left behind to cherish her memories include; two daughters, Cassie Martin of Glenmora, and Tracie Martin & companion, Megan of Glenmora; and one son, Jerry “Pete” Martin & wife, Donna of Glenmora; grandchildren, Daulton Anthony of Carthage, TX, Tristan “Jeanie” Hebert & husband, Jacob of Turkey Creek; Ashlyn Mancil & companion, Dalan of Oakdale; Brittany Dubroc, and Brandon Willbanks; brother, George “Peg” Strong & wife, Cheryl of Kolin, LA, and sister Beverly “Nannie” Kicklighter of Savannah, GA.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be Dennis Martin, George “Peg” Strong, Tate Strong, Devin Humphries, Thomas McCreery, and Tommy Lee Carriker. Honorary pallbearers honored to serve will be Wade, Jake, Chandon, and Daulton.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the Allen Oaks Nursing Home for the great care given to Faye while she was there. Also, a special thanks to St. Joseph Hospice for making the transition easy for her, along with a very special thanks to Mrs. Linda Shows for a 40-year friendship with our mom and for never leaving her side.

Visitation will be on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 9:00 AM until time of service at 3:00 PM in the church.

01/08/2026

Funeral service for Raymon Fred Tucker will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday January 9th, 2026, in the White Oaks Memorial Chapel. Reverend Benji Rhame will be officiating. Interment will follow in the Cryer Cemetery under the direction of White Oaks Funeral Home Oakdale, Louisiana.

Raymon, 64, passed away on January 4, 2026, in his residence. Raymon was born to Raymon Woody Tucker & Mary Vandervalde Roy on April 11, 1961, in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Raymon was a skilled millwright and spent his free time passionately fishing the local waters, and hunting in the nearby woods. Raymon traveled all across the United States with his millwright skills. Most importantly, he was affectionately attached to his loving four-legged companion & best friend “Pork Chop”.

He is proceeded in death by his mother & father, and two brothers, David Bosnick, and Ricky Bosnick.

Those left to cherish his memory are his two sisters, Paula Vanlangendonck of Forest Hill, and Teresa Long of Hineston, along with a host of nieces, nephews & great nephews.

Visitation will begin on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM until time of service at 1:00 PM in the chapel.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be David Vanlangendonck, Zachary Lacaze, James Vanlangendonck III, Alex Vanlangendonck, Christopher Bosnick, Steven Strother, and Joseph Strother.

01/06/2026

Ernest Ashworth

A graveside service for Ernest Alvin Ashworth will be held at 11:00AM on Friday January 9th, 2026 at Oakhill Cemetery with Reverand Mark Swinnea and Reverand Paul Swinnea officiating. Interment will follow under the direction of White Oaks Funeral Home, Oakdale, LA.

Ernest Ashworth, 69, passed away in his home on December 25th, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Ernest was born to Murphy and Ruby Ashworth on the 22nd of November 1956. He married Sarah Swinnea and had two children, Gregory and Christopher Ashworth. He worked at different jobs including; mill work, truck driving, and roofing. Roofing took them to many different states. He eventually found his way to Montana where he made a home and life. He met and married Dee Walden. He started his own construction business, Ashworth Construction. He was an avid pool player and a member of several pool leagues. He was the founder and Captain of the Ashworth Construction softball team. They played competitively all over the state winning one state championship and many tournaments. Known by many, and lovingly called Papa Ern, he helped raise Tina, Dominique, Caleb, and Jared. He moved back to Louisiana to be closer to family, where he continued roofing for a few years.

He is proceeded in death by Father and Mother; Murphy and Ruby Ashworth; his first wife, Sarah Swinnea; brothers, Gene, Kenneth, and Elmer.

Those left to morn his loss include; sons, Greg (Mikki) Ashworth of Oakdale; Chris (Charity) Ashworth of Conroe Texas; Daughter, Tina Ashworth of Hibbing Minnesota; Son, Dominique Pinoteau of St. Paul Minnesota; Sister, Janice Sims (Terry) Rayville Louisiana; 8 Grandchildren and 2 Great Grandchildren and one on the way. His Companion Sarah Fontenot and her daughter JoJo.

01/04/2026

David "Chief" Rowell Lowe, Sr.

Funeral services for David "Chief" Rowell Lowe, Sr., will be held at , 12:00 p.m., Monday, January 5, 2026, in Elwood Baptist Church with Reverend Mike Evans officiating. Committal service will follow in Butter Cemetery under the direction of White Oaks Funeral Home, Oakdale, La.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m., Monday, January 5, 2026, in Elwood Baptist Church.

David, 87, of Forest Hill, entered eternal rest on Saturday, January 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born September 1, 1938, in Bayside, TX, to the union of John Lowe, Sr., and Maggie Lowe. David was Chief of Police for 23 Yrs in Forest Hill. In his early years he raced stock cars and soon passed that love onto his son. He owned & operated a Towing service for 40+ years. David was a mechanic by trade. He married Audrey Faye Robbins June 10, 1961, and was married for 52 yrs before she passed. David was an avid hunter and loved saltwater fishing in Cameron, LA. He enjoyed watching his great grandchildren racing, playing ball and barrel racing! David enjoyed a little karaoke and Johnny Cash.

David is proceeded in death by his parents, John Travis Lowe, Sr., born in Correl County, TX, and Maggie May Culpepper Lowe, born in Sweetwater, TX; wife of 52 years, Audrey Fay Robbins Lowe; grandsons, Dennon Lee Strange, Jr., and William Elo Graham; and 12 siblings.

Those left behind to cherish his memory are son, David Rowel Lowe, Jr., and wife Becky of Woodworth, LA; daughters Lisa Louise Lowe of Forest Hill, LA, Tracy Elain Lowe Kerry and fiancé David of Alexandria, La, and Deborah Fay Lowe Strange and husband Dennon; and sister, Gloria Louise Lowe Wilson of Portland; along with a host of family and friends.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be Dennis Davey, Darren Lowe, Adolfo Valle, William Marshall, Cliff Davey, Rylee Lowe, and Collin Lewis.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Compassionate Care Hospice and his nurse Tony for a true heart for her patients, her aide Rachel and Bill the chaplain for Compassionate Care his aide.

01/03/2026

Mark “Doc” Ross Winegeart

Funeral services for Mark “Doc” Ross Winegeart will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, January 5, 2026, in Pineridge Baptist Church, Melder, LA with Reverend Jodie Stokes and Reverend Jason Townley officiating. Committal service will follow in Pineridge Cemetery under the direction of White Oaks Funeral Home, Oakdale, LA.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m., Monday, January 5, 2026, in Pineridge Baptist Church, Melder, LA.

Mark, 64, of Alexandria, entered eternal rest on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at Rapides Regional Medical Center of Alexandria, LA. He was born on January 23, 1961, in Lake Charles, LA, to the union of Jean Winegeart and Verna Winegeart. Mark retired from Rapides Parish Fire Department after 25 years of loyal service. He was a certified EMT, Firefighter, and Paramedic. Mark enjoyed sports, especially football and basketball. He was a great cook who loved the smokey mountains and fishing.

Mark is preceded in death by his mother, Verna Rhame Winegeart, and brother Reggie Winegeart.

Those left behind to cherish his memory are his father, Jean Winegeart of Glenmora, LA; former wife and mother of his daughters, Latrice Winegeart of Alexandra, LA; daughters, Tara Winegeart of Baton Rouge, La, and Dena Winegeart of Tacoma, WA; brother, Steve Winegeart of Surprise, AZ; sisters, Sharon Miller of Woodworth, LA, Francine Shelfo of Alexandria, LA, and Lori Wilson of Alexandria, LA; along with a host of friends and family.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be Joe Glorioso, Shea Smith, Timothy Blalock, Brent Bordelon, Brandon Gray, and Cris Rini. Honorary pallbearers to serve will be Jacob Butterfield and Billy Hinson.

12/27/2025

Stephanie Crystal Sumbler-Bellard was truly the jewel in everyone’s crown. A woman of unwavering faith, boundless love, and gentle strength, Stephanie touched every life she encountered with grace, humility, and compassion. Affectionately known as “Bicky,” Stephanie was born on November 4, 1968, in Oakdale, Louisiana, to
the late William and Faye Sumbler. She was the youngest of six siblings and was baptized at an early age at Goodwill Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. J. J. Rax, where her parents faithfully served. From childhood, Stephanie loved Sunday School and sang joyfully in the Youth Choir, laying a strong foundation of faith that would guide her throughout her life.

Stephanie was a gentle and humble spirit who gave freely from her heart, truly believing that it was better to give than to receive. She did not simply see a need—she met it. Her words carried wisdom and kindness, and when she spoke, people listened. Her infectious laugh could change the mood of any room, bringing comfort and joy to those around her. She graduated with honors from Oakdale High School Class of 1986, where she excelled academically and proudly served as a member of the cheerleading team. Stephanie received a scholarship to Grambling State University, and was a proud member of the GRAMFAM and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting in 1990. She was employed over 20 years at Aptim Environmental Solutions in Knoxville, Tenn and later transferred with the organization to Baton Rouge, Louisiana. On August 31, 1991 she married Stacy Bellard and they eventually settled in Knoxville, Tennessee. There, her life was beautifully enriched with the birth of her beloved daughter, Amari Bellard.

Stephanie adored her husband and shared an unbreakable bond with her best friend and daughter Amari. She intentionally guided her din in the ways of the Lord and wanted nothing but the very best for her. Stephanie was instrumental in Amari’s academic success and was immensely proud of her accomplishments. Later in life, Stephanie rededicated her life to the Lord Jesus Christ and became an active and devoted member of Oak Valley Baptist Church in Oakridge Tennessee under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Hardil Thomas. She faithfully served as Head of the Sunday School Department, Head Deaconess, Head of Vacation Bible School and Young Adult Ministry. She made it her life’s mission to pray for each of her family members, encouraging them with love, faith, and strength.

Stephanie exemplified the true essence of Proverbs 31 a virtuous woman who loved the Lord with all her heart. Known for her loving nature, Stephanie was an amazing mother, aunt, cousin, and friend. She loved her family and friends unconditionally and made everyone feel, supported, and deeply cared for. She also had a special talent for making homemade candy—so good it outshined Mr. Goodbar—and whenever she made it, you knew it was prepared with love.

On December 17, 2025, at 6:45 a.m., God saw in his infinite wisdom to call Stephanie from labor to reward. She transitioned as she slept peacefully. Though her earthly journey has ended, she has left an impressionable legacy of faith and love that will continue to inspire and guide all who were blessed to know her.

Stephanie was preceded in death by her parents, William and Faye Sumbler; aunts, Dorothy Stevens, Shirley Gray, and Betty Mitchell; uncles, Charlie and Floyd Ballard; brother, Billy Clyde Sumbler; nieces, Tamika Tolbert and Adrianne Young; and nephew, Marcus Young.

She leaves to cherish and honor her memory her devoted husband, Stacy Bellard; her beloved daughter, Amari Bellard; brothers: Gregory Sumbler (Rene) of Oakdale, LA; Ronald Harris of Oakdale, LA; Joseph Harris (Andrella) of Mamou, LA; William Sumbler Jr. (Delphine) of Oakdale, LA; Ronald Sumbler (Linda) of Glenmora, LA; Donald Sumbler of Sacramento, CA; Jerome Sumbler (Cassie) of Oakdale, LA; sisters: Patricia Harris of Baton Rouge, LA; Roslyn Sumbler (Rodney) of Oakdale, LA; Hilda Sumbler of Oakdale, LA; Linda Seals (Henry) of Sacramento, CA; uncles: Michael Ballard of Oakdale, LA; Jerry Ballard (Roanna) of Oberlin, LA; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, extended family, and friends. Stephanie Crystal Sumbler-Bellard will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

Honorary Pallbearers:
Gregory Sumbler, Ronald Harris, Joseph Harris, Chris Bias Sr., Rodney Goudeau, Alsan Bellard, Voris Soileau, Troy Bellard

Active Pallbearers:
Gregory D. Sumbler, William Joshua Sumbler, Brian Allison, Tyron Sumbler, Toris Sumbler

Repast: Lion's Club

Location of Service:
White Oaks Funeral Chapel
110 South 12th Street
Oakdale, La 71463

Viewing: 9:00am-11:00am
Funeral Service: 11:00am-until
Officant: Pastor Andrew Hayes, Jr.

12/17/2025

Darrell Kenneth Gillespie, age 90, of Glenmora, LA, passed away Sunday, December 14, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. until time of service at 2:00 p.m., on Friday, December 19, 2025, in the Glenmora Baptist Church with Reverend Neil Treme officiating. Interment will follow in the Roselawn Cemetery professionally directed by White Oaks Funeral Home, Oakdale, La.

Darrell, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, was born on M ay 27, 1935, in Melder, Louisiana, to Belton and Gladys Gillespie.

He possessed a deeply competitive spirit in sports, in life, and in love. He was passionate about athletics, whether playing, coaching, or cheering from the stands. In his younger years, he played for a semi-professional ball team. Later in life, he was a faithful presence at high school basketball, baseball and softball games, especially when watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

He met the love of his life, Lois Howard, at a grocery store. After a brief six-month courtship, they eloped and shared 62 years of marriage. Darrell showed Lois his love every single day. While some said she spoiled him, he was simply easy to love.

He faithfully supported and stayed by his wife’s side until her last breath. Though saved at an early age, it was during that season his faith deepened, and he grew closer to the Lord.

His daughters cherished their daily devotionals with him, and his faith sustained him in the years following the loss of his beloved wife.

Darrell is survived by his children: Kenneth “Noonie” Gillespie (Zena), Sondra Odom (Greg), Rhonda Dousay (Tim), and Donna Rikard (Kevin); his grandchildren: Heather Odom, Gregory Odom, Samantha Prestridge, Clay Rikard, and Cody Rikard; and his great-grandchildren: Sydney, Ethan, Cameron, Madeline, Bentley, Grayson, Izzy, Brooks, Jack, Titus, and Tommy. Three sisters, Doris Hebert, Wanda Boucher and Brenda Burns.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Lois Howard Gillespie, and his grandson, Kenneth “Rookie” Gillespie.

The family finds comfort in knowing Darrell is now with the Lord. On the morning of his passing, he looked upward and said, “Well, looka there.” When asked what he saw, he replied, “Well… just look.” His family believes he was seeing something truly special… a glimpse of Paradise.

Pallbearers: Gregory Odom, Clay Rikard, Cody Rikard, Ethan Nguyen, Cameron Nguyen, and Ronnie Boucher
Honorary Pallbearers: Bentley Prestridge, Grayson Prestridge, Brooks Odom, Jack Odom, Titus Rikard and Tommy Rikard.

This Christmas, Darrell receives the greatest gift of all—Heaven. Those he leaves behind will forever treasure the love, faith, and memories he so generously gave.

12/12/2025

Elmer Lee Martin

Funeral services for Elmer Lee Martin will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, December 13, 2025, at New Sunrise Baptist Church, Otis, La, with Reverend Mike Evans and Reverend Larry Laurent officiating. Interment will follow at Butter Cemetery, professionally directed by White Oaks Funeral Home, Oakdale, La.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., Friday, December 12, 2025, at New Sunrise Baptist Church of Otis.

Elmer 84, of Forest Hill, entered eternal rest Thursday, December 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Oakdale, La, August 22, 1941, to the union of Elmer Henry Martin and Iva Lee Martin. Elmer was a true Cattleman who was a member of Elwood Baptist Church.

He is preceded is death by his wife and mother of his children, Linda Ann Martin; Father and Mother, Elmer “Henry” and Iva Lee Martin; Brother, Johnnie Wayne “Jake” Martin; and infant brother, Everitt Allen Martin; as well as his sister Linda Martin Lemoine and his father and mother-in-law Charlie and Doris Chevalier.

Elmer is survived by his current wife of 19 years Carolyn Martin; his children, Virginia Martin (Val) of Clearwater, Melanie Humphries (Donald) of Forest Hill, and Dennis Martin (Cindy) of Calcasieu; stepsons, Chad and Jeremy Johnson of Plainview; grandchildren, Ashley Ducote of Woodworth, Devin Humphries (Emily) of Forest Hill, Lindsay Wood (Chaston) of Elmer, Drake Martin (Erin) of Plainview, Aryn Johnson (Coleburn) of Rosepine, C**t & Rowan Johnson of Oakdale, and Lindy Young (Chris) of Elmer; nieces, Cassie Martin Peters and Tracie Lynn Martin of Glenmora; nephews, Pete Martin, Cliffton, and Kevin Lemoine; great grandchildren, Kylee Mertens, Lucas Ducote, Claylee Carpenter, Cole Wood, Cody Wood, Charlee & Kinslee Humphries, Bentley Ray, Blakeley Johnson, Logan Johnson, Ryah Wells (Kody), Brooklyn Wells (Chris), as well as soon to arrive twin John David and Sara Martin; great great grandchildren, Landry Barton; along with a host of family and friends.

Pallbearers honored to serve are David Payne, Bo Nash, Bill Crawford, Donnie Brown, Parrish Giles, and Rocky Ray. Honorary pallbearers to serve are Drake Martin, Devin Humphries, Cole Wood, Cody Wood, Lucas Ducote, Danny Perkins, and Chad Johnson.