Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home

06/15/2026

Joseph Hunter Pierson, Jr

Joseph Hunter Pierson, Jr. went to be with his Lord on June 12, 2026 at the age of 75, following a battle with Melanoma. His courage and bravery were surpassed only by his fierce love and devotion to his family. Joe was born on August 1, 1950 in Natchitoches, LA to Joe H. Pierson, Sr. & Margaret Barnes Pierson. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Bobby Pierson, nephew, Kevin Pierson, and brothers-in-law, Terry Cleland and Johnny Cloud.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Pat; his daughter Alicia Pierson Fidanza and husband, John III, of Baton Rouge and son, Joshua Nolen Pierson and Fiancée, Haley of Natchitoches.

Left to cherish his memory are grandchildren, Anna Margaret Harris of Baton Rouge, William Hunter Harris of Ruston, and Calan Walker Pierson and Camille Faith Pierson of Van Alstyne, TX, Step grandchildren include Nicole Fidanza of Lexington, KY; John Fidanza IV of Jupiter, FL; Anna Maria Fidanza of Baton Rouge, and Anthony Fidanza of Zachary. He is also survived by his sisters, Ruth Pierson Cleland of Lake Charles, LA and Susan Pierson Berndt (Barry) of Beaumont, TX.

Joe will be remembered for his passion for good food, his love of entertaining family and friends, his deep commitment to City Bank, and his dedication to “getting things done on time”. He graduated from Natchitoches High School in 1968, attended LSU briefly, then enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1969. He went on to receive an Honorable discharge as a Specialist 5 in 1971. He always remained deeply proud of his military service.

Joe then enrolled at Northwestern State University, playing on the NSU Golf Team which went to the NAIA National Tournament three consecutive years. He graduated with a B. S. in Business Administration and a minor in Economics in 1974. He also began his banking career at City Bank & Trust Co. and worked there, holding various positions until 1987, when he & Pat relocated to Greenville, NC, where he was employed by Wachovia Bank and she was the Head Women’s Basketball Coach at East Carolina University. After five successful years in each of their careers, they returned to Natchitoches and Joe assumed the role of President & CEO at City Bank, where he served until his retirement from that position in 2015. He continued serving as Chairman of the bank’s Board of Directors until February of 2026. He was also awarded the Distinguished Service Award by the Louisiana Banker’s Association, for 53 remarkable years of service to the banking industry.

Joe was involved in civic and community organizations throughout his life. He was a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church, a longtime member of Rotary International, having been recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow. He was a member of the Agitator’s Club, the Monday Lunch Bunch group, a former President of the Natchitoches Chamber of Commerce and served on many boards and committees in those various organizations.

Joe’s life long love of duck hunting was a prominent focus and passion for him. Working as a partner in his beloved Bayou Pierre Wildlife, LLC was his favorite pastime and gave him such a source of pride, generously sharing it with fellow hunters, friends, and family.

In their retirement, Joe and Pat enjoyed traveling-pheasant hunting in South Dakota in October, duck hunting in Louisiana in January, August trips to Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, all spent with dear “hunt group” friends. A special thanks goes to John & Sarah Luster for introducing , inviting, and always including them in being a part of this wonderful group of people. The memories made are priceless.

They enjoyed many Alaska fishing trips with dear friends, as well! Joe loved seeing God’s creation, untouched by humans, and it was a very spiritual thing for him.

Joe and Pat were humbled and honored that City Bank employees and Directors established the Joe & Pat Pierson Scholarship at Northwestern State University recently. Memorials in Joe’s name may be given to that scholarship fund at NSU or to First United Methodist Church, Natchitoches, LA.

The family would like to express their deepest thanks to Dr. Bill Luster, Dr. George Ingrish, Kirk Soileau & NRMC, Dr. Akhtar, Dr. Richards, and the staff at the Cancer Center, and the staff at Hospice of Natchitoches for their wonderful care and concern.

Services will be held at First United Methodist Church on Thursday, June 18 in the sanctuary with visitation from 9-11 and the service will be held at 11am.

Pallbearers will be John Ackel, Jeff Fair, Ken Guidry, Mickey Hennigan, Pat Johnson, Rayburn Smith, Will Harris and Calan Pierson.

Interment will follow in Memory Lawn Cemetery.

View Joseph Hunter Pierson, Jr's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

06/14/2026

Carol Ann Jones Coolman

Carol Ann Jones Coolman, 79, of St. Maurice went to be with her Lord and Savior peacefully on June 9, 2026, surrounded by her family. She had an unwavering faith and loved the Lord with all of her heart.

Born on February 11, 1947, Carol was the beloved daughter of J.E. and Odie Jones. She was a mother and a housewife whom helped her husband with whatever he was doing, from hauling pulpwood to building thigs. They were inseparable. This past year and a half were extremely difficult being left behind by the love of her life, Roy. She was very outspoken, in a good way. She loved her family immensely and would do anything for them and to protect them.

Carol enjoyed sitting on the front porch drinking coffee with her husband Roy and her family. She liked seeing her roses bloom and watching the birds and hummingbirds eat. One of her favorite past times was playing rummy with family after church on Sunday afternoons on the porch. She also loved playing fetch with her fur baby, Trixie.

Those left to cherish her memory is her daughter, Jeanette Coolman, Son Roy (R.J.) Coolman, Jr. and daughter-in-law Danelli Coolman of St. Maurice and her son Norman Coolman and daughter-in-law Janet Coolman of Natchitoches. Grandchildren Heather Nicole Coolman, whom she referred to fondly as her Baby Heart, Danielle (Kyle), Austin, William, John (Kelsey) and Megan. Great Grandchildren Bailey, Ethan, Sawyer, Camden and Ezra. She is also survived by one brother, Ralph Eugene Jones and her Fur Baby, Trixie.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Roy, a son David Lee Coolman, a granddaughter Searra O’Neal and a brother James Roy Jones.

Carol will forever be loved and greatly missed but never forgotten. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of family and friends.

A graveside service is scheduled for Sunday, June 14, 2026 at 2pm in the St. Maurice Cemetery in St. Maurice, LA with Bro. Kevin Collier officiating and Mrs. Lottie Collier leading the music.

Any donations can be made to help fight cancer and heart disease in Carol’s name. She fought a good fight!

View Carol Ann Jones Coolman's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

06/14/2026

On Flag Day, we honor the American flag and the values it represents.

Folding the flag is a long-standing tradition carried out with care and respect, with each fold holding symbolic meaning. This video demonstrates the proper way to fold an American flag according to traditional guidelines.

You can learn more about the flag folding procedure here:
https://www.legion.org/advocacy/flag-advocacy/flag-folding-procedures

06/14/2026

On this Army Birthday, we extend our gratitude to all who have served and continue to serve. Thank you for your commitment, bravery, and selfless service.

06/12/2026

Lynn David (Dave) Galloway

With deep love and admiration, we proudly honor the extraordinary life of Lynn David Galloway, a man of remarkable character, integrity, and warmth.

Better known to his friends as “Dave,” he was born January 6, 1940, in Florence, AZ. He lived some of his earliest years in Sutton, AR, where many happy family times and lasting memories were born and where a part of his heart remained always. The majority of his youth and early adulthood occurred in Baton Rouge, where he graduated from Istrouma High School and LSU, after which his life took many fateful twists and turns.

He also sported several nicknames such as “Super Dave,” “Red Baron,” and countless others. All of which only reflected the love and respect of the many friends who graced him with such monikers. As a seasoned pilot, scratch golfer, talented musician and excellent businessman, his friendships extended far and wide. Even with all his accomplishments, his greatest joy came from family; human, canine, and feline as well as the love shown by scores of friends.

Dave passed away June 8 in Shreveport, LA after a lengthy illness. He is preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Faye Andres Galloway; son, Michael David Galloway; brothers Richard Gary Galloway and Donald Wayne Galloway; aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents he loved deeply and whose life lessons, taught with love, served him well throughout his life. Also preceding him in death is a score of beloved canines and felines, rescued and redeemed by his love and devotion to them.

Dave’s legacy of love stretches across generations of family. He is survived by his wife, Lynn Dix; son, Richard W. Galloway and wife, Linda; daughter, Melissa D. Galloway; five grandchildren (Ricky W. Galloway II and fiancée, Damary; David A. Galloway and wife, Katy; James Owens and fiancée Mary Kate; Jordan Owens; and Emilynn Cochran); four great-grandchildren and one rescue pup, Tiny.

A service to honor his memory will be held at the First United Methodist Crossroads, 411 Second Street in Natchitoches, LA, on Saturday, June 27. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. with service to follow at 11 a.m.

Dave always said, “Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.” His professional life exemplified this mantra to the fullest by his profound love for music and flying. As Dave left this earthly life, we delight to imagine his exhilaration of being engulfed by heavenly harmonies as he soared into the arms of his Savior.

The family offers heartfelt thanks to Allison, Autumn, Don, Eileen, Jane, Noli, Sarah and Sheryl of Life Path Hospice for your compassionate care. Extra special thanks go to Dr. Robert Hernandez, devoted physician and friend whose kindness and gentle care have been most appreciated and will forever be remembered.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Dave’s honor to one of his favorite causes. FAUNA (Friends All United for Natchitoches Animals), PO Box 2552, Natchitoches, LA 71457; St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; Shriners Children’s Shreveport, 3100 Samford Avenue, Shreveport, LA 71103; or the charity of your choice, gifting love to those in greatest need.

View Lynn David Galloway's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

06/12/2026

Some conversations may not always feel easy to start, but planning ahead can bring clarity, comfort, and peace of mind for the people you love most.

Taking time now to discuss your wishes can help ease future stress and allow your family to focus on what matters most, each other.

If you’d like to learn more about preplanning visit:
https://pre-planning-locator.pages.dev/

06/11/2026

Blanche Ruth Watkins

Blanche Ruth Mellown Watkins died peacefully on June 8, 2026, in Natchitoches, LA at the age of 99. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mildred Harris Mellown and William Ewing Mellown, her brother, William Ewing Mellown, Jr., her husband John C. Watkins, and her daughter Valerie Parker. She is survived by her sister, Kathryn Larkin, sister-in-law, Jane Watkins, and daughters, Cindy Allen (Rodney) and Frances Conine (Cliff). She is also survived by six grandchildren: Emily Allen (Andy Briseno), Claire Patrick (John), John Conine (Lidia), Joseph Conine (Hannah), Price Parker (Alice), and Kathryn Bostick (Stephen). She was blessed with eight great-grandchildren: Ramona Briseno, Jack Conine, Sebby Conine, Poppy Conine, Marley Parker, Reese Parker, Hunter Parker, and Olivia Bostick. Three other great-grandbabies are due this year to carry on her legacy.

Blanche was born and reared in the small west Alabama town of York. Feeling that she had had a perfect childhood, she loved to tell stories about growing up on the same street as her grandparents, great-aunt, and her future husband. She was a proud graduate of Auburn University, where she earned a degree in Home Economics Education.

She married in 1951 and soon made raising her daughters her primary mission in life. As the wife of a young prison reformer, however, she oversaw a home not only filled with little girls and their friends, but one often filled with social scientists, members of the criminal justice system, reporters, and prisoners, known as houseboys. Blanche gracefully managed all this chaos, touching many lives in the process. By the example she set as a loving, calm, honest, strong and fair-minded person, Blanche earned the affection of her houseboys and helped them turn their lives around. Blanche was not a lecturer; she taught her values to everyone through her acts of kindness, generosity, and openheartedness.

As her daughters grew older, Blanche began a career of her own, teaching children from pre-school through high school. Then came her starring role, that of grandmother. “Boose”, as she was called by her grandchildren, made her home and garden an extension of her love. She filled the house with fresh flowers in the summer and delighted her grandchildren with decorations for every holiday. Boose was a fabulous cook who loved making her grandchildren’s favorite dishes and even provided a second breakfast if they wanted one. She delighted in teaching them to cook, arrange flowers, and do crafts and needlework. She was always up to watching them swim in the lake, feed the catfish, or do a little pole fishing.

Blanche spent much of her older life caring for her beloved husband as he suffered with Parkinson’s Disease. She was unflappable, uncomplaining, and incredibly kind in this most difficult endeavor. One night when John fell and she could not get him up, she pulled a small mattress to his side and slept beside him until help came.

Blanche’s love will continue through the many people she touched. She will never be replaced. Those of us who loved her can only hope to be more like her. She will be missed immensely.

Blanche’s family wishes to thank Tracy Van Hook, Liz Williams, Regina Monette, Pat Kendrick, and Earl Niette for the tender and loving care they provided for her in her last years of life.

A service celebrating Blanche’s life will be held at Trinity Episcopal Church in Natchitoches on Monday, June 29, 2026, at 10 a.m. Memorial gifts may be made to Trinity Episcopal Preschool, 148 Touline St., Natchitoches, LA 71457.

View Blanche Ruth Watkins's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

06/10/2026

Sometimes circumstances make it difficult to attend a funeral or memorial service in person, but there are still meaningful ways to offer support and care from afar.

A thoughtful note, attending virtually, sending flowers, or simply checking in afterward can bring comfort during a difficult time. Often, it’s the small acts of kindness that leave the biggest impact.

06/08/2026

Linda Gail Carter

Linda Gail Carter, passed away on June 6, 2026 with her family by her side. Born on September 21, 1949, Linda’s life was defined by her devotion to family, faith, and the simple joys that brought warmth to her heart.

Linda’s remarkable journey was enriched by her deep love for her family. She was especially devoted to her grandchildren, who affectionately called her “Mimi,” a testament to the nurturing presence she offered them. The joy she found in spending time with her family was a central theme throughout her life, and her home was often filled with the laughter and love of multiple generations. Linda leaves behind her daughters Juana Myers (Jonathan), Anita Chelette, Margarette Neal, Karen Cotten (Randy), and Sue Chelette; her sons Billy Carter (Donna) and Robert Carter (Sherri); as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. In her later years, she found love and companionship again with her devoted partner Wayne Lasyone.

Linda was preceded in death by her beloved husband William "Bill" Carter; her daughter Mallory Carter; her sons Hardy Chelette, Greg Carter, Kenny Carter and Tony Carter; grandsons Steven Carter, Shanon Carter and Stanley Neal; a granddaughter Amanda Cotten; as well as a sons-in-law Lynn Neal and Gerald Chelette; and a daughter-in-law Carolyn Carter. Their memories, alongside hers, weave through the fabric of her family’s history, forever cherished and remembered.

A long-time member of Mt. Zion United Methodist Church in Montgomery, Louisiana, Linda treasured her fellowship with her church family. Her commitment to the church was enduring, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her there. Beyond her family and church, Linda’s interests were diverse and vibrant. She loved reading, often immersing herself in stories that enriched her life. Her hobbies included embroidery, a craft she pursued with patience and artistry, and shopping—shopping for shoes and purses, perhaps small joys that reflected her spirited personality.

A service to honor her life will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday June 11, 2026 at Mt. Zion United Methodist Church with Rev. Ernie Maynard officiating. Visitation will be held on June 11, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Zion United Methodist Church, located at 16240 Hwy 34, Montgomery, LA 71454. This gathering will offer family, friends, and community members the opportunity to pay their respects and celebrate her life. Committal service will follow the funeral at Mt. Zion Cemetery under the direction of Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home of Natchitoches. Those honored to serve as pallbearers include Jonathan Myers, Holden Myers, Keith Carter, Shelby Cotten, Anthony Carter, Greg Carter and Dalton Carter. Honorary pallbearers will be Glen Glenn, Billy Carter, and Robert Carter.

Linda’s legacy is one of unwavering love, faith, and dedication to those she held dear. She will be remembered not only as “Mimi” to her grandchildren but as a woman who lived with kindness, grace, and a spirit that enriched the lives of many. Her memory will remain a guiding light to those who had the privilege of knowing her.

View Linda Gail Carter's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

06/08/2026

A favorite recipe, a summer tradition, a handwritten note, sometimes the smallest things can hold the biggest memories.

The people we love often stay close to us through the traditions, stories, and moments we continue to carry forward.

What’s one way you honor or remember a loved one?