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Istrouma '64 Celebrates 60 Years!

124 classmates, spouses and guests attended the June 22nd Dinner.

    It's hard to believe that 60 years have have gone by since most of us walked across the stage back in May 1964 to receive our diplomas. We celebrated that event at the 60th Reunion on June 22nd.
    Our 60th Reunion Dinner/Dance was held on June 22, 2024 at the Drusilla Seafood Restaurant Ballroom in Baton Rouge, from 5 to 8 p.m. Classmates, spouses and guests enjoyed a buffet with hot/cold Hors D'oeuvres, desserts, 60th Reunion Cake, and a cash bar. The attendance was 124.
    Visit the 60th Reunion Page to read about the event and see photos. Please send us your photos to add to the 60th Reunion Gallery.

60th Anniversary Directory
(10/15/24) Our new 60th Anniversary Directory is online. It is an update to our 50th Anniversary Directory and contains several new and many updated listings. Please review your listing and send any updates or corrections to us at ihs1964@yahoo.com.
The directory is located in the Classmates Only Section and for security purposes, you must log in. See a recent e-Blast to get the user name and password.

e-Blast Archive
If you misplaced or aren't receiving our monthly e-Blasts, visit the Email Campaign Archive to catch up. And, be sure to register if you aren't on the list.

Recent Obituaries
Click to refresh page for the most recent information. Visit the In Memoriam page for a complete list and links to archived obituary notices. Also, visit the Faculty & Staff Obituaries Page.

Alex George Canova, Jr.

   (6/7/25) We learned recently that Alex George Canova, Jr. passed away on November 13, 2019. Church Funeral Services in Ascension handled the arrangments and he is buried in the National Cemetery in Zachary.
    Visit the online obituary and guest book here



Mac Hearne (Band Director)

   (3/2/25) B. Mack Hearne, age 95, passed on February 18, 2025. He was a gifted musician, artist, and storyteller, gracing our lives with his quick wit and generous heart.
    Mack was born on August 10, 1929, in Deweyville, Texas to Howard E. and Willie Mae (Bill) Hearne. For decades, Mack influenced and inspired hundreds of young musicians as a band director. He taught at Ouachita High School, Lee Middle School, and Northeast University in Monroe, as well as Istrouma High School in Baton Rouge. He founded, directed, and played in the Platinum Sound Orchestra. Upon retirement, Mack opened an instrument repair business, helping countless musicians play to the best of their abilities.
   He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Gayle Brueck, son Martin (Lisa), grandchildren Angela (Doug), Jason (Stacy), and Amy (Kris), sister Dana (Ray), niece Amanda, and nine great-grandchildren. Mack was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and his niece Dana D.
   A visitation will be held February 25 at 11:00 am, with funeral service at noon at Greenoaks Funeral Home in Baton Rouge. Visit the online obituary and guest book here

Wanda (Kirkland) Brister

   Wanda K. Brister, age 79, loving mother of two and devoted wife to husband Charles Brister Jr., passed on the afternoon of February 28, 2025. Wanda was born on December 15, 1945 in Centreville, MS.to adoring parents Hewitt Kirkland and Addie Wilkinson Kirkland. She was influenced by her family to be steadfast, loving, and devoted.
   Wanda graduated in the class of '64 from Istrouma High School where she soon pursued a career as a Beautician. In a few years, she would meet her husband Charles in 1966 on a blind date. They fell in love instantly and knew they shared a love for family and decided to start their own February 4, 1967.
   As a mother, she was devoted and caring. As a grandmother, she was silly and loving.
Wanda had a love for camping, always raring for a new adventure. She was also an active member of the Southern Girls. She truly enjoyed being a part of her community.
   Wanda was always ready to make lasting memories. Her infectious laughter and quick wit could brighten any room.
   She is preceded by her parents Hewitt Kirkland and Addie Wilkinson Kirkland, and her two brothers Wayne Kirkland and Laurice Kirkland. She is survived by husband Charles Brister Jr., children Stephanie Earls (James Earls) of Gloster and Byron Brister (Kamela Brister) of Friendwood, TX., and grandchildren Nathan Brister, Peyton Earls, Aiden Earls, Jillian Brister, and Paige Brister. She also maintained a close relationship with her previous daughter-in-law, mother of her granddaughters Lisa Brister.
   She will be missed immensely by family and friends. We know that we can't have you, but we are happy knowing that the angels finally have you back.
   Visitation is Monday night, March 3, 2025, at Brown Funeral Home in Gloster from 5:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. Visitation Tuesday is from 10:00 A.M. until time of funeral services at 11:00 A.M. at the funeral home, officiated by Bro. Ellis Hollingsworth. Interment will follow at Mt. Pleasant Memorial Cemetery. Pallbearers are Bobby Durr, Leonard Durr, Joey Durr, Johnny Frank, Dennis Shilling, and James Earls. Honorary Pallbearers are David McKey and Ted Whittington.
   Visit the online obituary and guest book here.

William "Bill" Alvin Loudon, Jr.

   (3/2/25) William "Bill" Alvin Loudon, Jr. was born on December 7, 1945, and passed away peacefully at his home in Central, Louisiana, surrounded by his family and friends on February 16, 2025. He was a graduate of Istrouma High School as well as Louisiana State University, where he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Bill was a business owner for 25 years after which he retired and moved to the Bahamas. He eventually moved back to his residence in Central, Louisiana where he lived out the remainder of his years.
   His survivors include his two daughters, Cheryl Denise Loudon, of Jackson, LA and April Loudon Betancourt (Jeremy), of Austin, TX. He is survived by five grandchildren, William F. Midkiff, of Marathon, Ontario, Canada, Samuel A. Midkiff, of East End, Saskatchewan, Canada and Holly K. Midkiff, of Lafayette, Louisiana, Presley and Memphis Betancourt, of Austin, Texas. Bill is also survived by his two sisters, Cathy Loudon and Marsha Lockwood (Jay). He was preceded in death by his parents, William, A. Loudon, Sr. and Rosemary Catha Loudon.
   Bill loved the outdoors and was an avid fisherman and hunter. He was passionate about philanthropic causes, such as St Jude Children's Research Hospital and Shriner's Hospital for Children. He dearly loved his dog and cat that were his constant companions.
   The family would like to thank St. Joseph Hospice and Bill's caregivers, Ms Deborah, Ms Frances and Ms Jackie for their compassion and support during such a difficult time.
   A gathering to celebrate and honor his memory will be held on his property, in Central, Louisiana, on March 8 at 3 p.m. Visit the online obituary and guest book here.

Kenneth Elton Wall, Sr.

   (2/19/25) Kenneth Elton Wall, Sr.—beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend—entered his eternal home on Monday, February 17, 2025, surrounded by his cherished family. A man of deep faith, Ken was welcomed into the arms of Jesus, whom he faithfully served throughout his life.
   Ken was a proud graduate of Istrouma High School and Louisiana College. He spent decades as a coach at Central Middle School, where he not only shaped young athletes but also guided them with wisdom, kindness, and unwavering support. His influence extended far beyond the field, touching the lives of countless students who carried his lessons with them long after their school years ended.
   Ken's presence was a gift to all who knew him. With his infectious smile, quick wit, and generous heart, he became a pillar of the Central community—a friend to many and a brother to all. He embodied the values of faith, integrity, and service, leading by example and inspiring those around him.
   Above all, Ken was a devoted Paw Paw, a role he embraced with boundless love. Whether cheering from the stands, lining up a perfect golf shot, listening to a piano recital, or watching a first pirouette, he was his grandchildren's biggest fan. His unwavering support and gentle encouragement will remain a guiding light in their lives.
   Ken is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Tamara Guidry Wall; his children, Kenny Wall and wife Megan, and Tiffany Burnham and husband Bryan; and his adored grandchildren, Matthew, Ben, and Georgia Wall, and Bradley, Amelia, and Audrey Burnham. He also leaves behind his brother, Don Wall and wife Pat; sister-in-law Tara Guidry; and brothers-in-law Sonny Guidry and wife Libby, and Russ Guidry and wife Ellen, and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Ken is now reunited in Heaven with his parents, Luther and Vera Wall, and his beloved in-laws, Audrey and Roland Guidry, Sr. Though his physical presence will be deeply missed, his spirit, love, and laughter will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
   A Celebration of Life will be held at Resthaven Gardens of Memory & Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Hwy in Baton Rouge, on Friday, February 21, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Visitation will take place on Thursday, February 20th, from 5:00-8:00 p.m., and Friday, February 21st, from 9:00-10:00 a.m. Interment will follow the service.
Pallbearers will be Kenny Wall, Bryan Burnham, Don Wall, Jason Wall, Jared Wall, Russ Guidry, John Cashio, and Chris Meisner. Honorary pallbearers are Matthew Wall, Ben Wall, and Bradley Burnham.
   Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family here.

William Emmett "Butch" Dunnington, III
December 4,1945 - January 30, 2025

   (1/5/25) Emmett “Butch” Dunnington, 79, was born in Baton Rouge. He passed away peacefully in his sleep in Katy, Texas. A man of strength, determination, and boundless generosity, Emmett touched the lives of all who knew him with his wit, ingenuity, and genuine heart.
   Emmett graduated from Istrouma High School in Baton Rouge in 1964. Shortly after, he answered the call to serve his country, joining the U.S. Army in 1966. He honorably served until 1969, including a tour in Vietnam. His service to his country will never be forgotten.
   In June 1966 Emmett married the love of his life Faye Prather in Mississippi. After his time in
the Army, Emmett and Faye moved to Denham Springs and later settled in Greenwell Springs.
Emmett has an incredible ability to create something out of nothing, leaving everyone in awe
of his resourcefulness. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life—fishing, hunting, gardening, and spending time with friends at the VFW Hall.
   Though sometimes grumpy, his family lovingly embraced this side of him, with his
grandchildren fondly calling him “Gramps”—and jokingly, “Grumps.” His gruff exterior was
always softened by the deep love he had for his family.
   Emmett will be remembered as a strong-willed and determined man whose heart was as
generous as his spirit was resilient. His legacy of generosity, hard work, and love
will live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him.
   He is survived by his daughter Becky Smith, son Darren Dunnington, brother Mark
Dunnington, granddaughter Madison Nelson, grandson Kyle Smith, and seven greatgrandchildren. Emmett was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Faye Prather Dunnington; his parents, Eula Lee Dunnington; and his brother, Ricky Dunnington.
Pallbearers will be Jay Prather, Joey Fontenot, Justin DeJean, Eddie Wayne Turner, Kyle Smith,
and Bert Prather. Honorary pallbearer will be Myron Prather.
   Visitation will be held at Seale Funeral Home in Denham Springs on Friday February 7th from 10:00am-12:30pm. A graveside service will be immediately following the visitation at Amite Baptist Church Cemetery. Read the online obituary and guestbook here.
   “He was a man a man of few words but loved with his whole heart and will be deeply missed.”

James R. (Jimmy) Hammond

      (12/11/24) James Ross "Jimmy" Hammond, born on February 19, 1946, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on December 10, 2024, in Lafayette, Louisiana. He was 78 years old.
   Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents, JB and Pearl Hammond, and his sister, Janie King. He is survived by his children, James and Bradley Hammond of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Ashley Hammond. He also leaves behind his beloved wife, Beth Callahan Hammond, and her children: C, Lib, Thomas, and Thor Taylor and 11 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.
   Jimmy lived a vibrant life filled with adventure and exploration. His time in the military and his career with the federal government took him to many different locations across the world. Despite his travels, Jimmy's heart always belonged to south Louisiana. His love of good food and Cajun music eventually brought him back to the region he cherished so deeply. He found joy in seeking out live performances by local bands and immersing himself in the culture that felt like home.
   Jimmy's warmth and zest for life left an indelible mark on all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those who loved him.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Read the online obituary and guest book here.

Frank A. Campbell, Jr.

   (12/3/24) Frank A. Campbell, Jr., beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather and coach, passed away on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at the age of 78. Frank was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on September 24, 1946 and graduated from Istrouma High School. His pursuit of knowledge led him to Louisiana State University, where he obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and a Master’s Degree of Social Work after working in law enforcement as an agent for the US Government. His career enabled him to touch the lives of many through his work in youth rehabilitation, Service Schedule mental health, and addiction recovery.
   Outside of his professional pursuits, Frank found joy in sports. Golf was his main
focus, as he was a top golfer during his high school days. He was also a wellrespected
middle school basketball, track, and soccer coach; he led St. Jean Vianney to their first ever middle school basketball championship.
   Above all his hobbies and interests, Frank's family was his true joy. He cherished
every moment spent with his grandchildren and never missed an opportunity to
support them. He could often be found passionately supporting his grandchildren in
all of their sporting events and academic pursuits.
   Frank is preceded in death by his biological parents Frank Armstrong Campbell, Sr.,
and Annie VanOsdell Powers and his devoted, caregiving aunt and uncle Benny and
Etta Mae VanOsdell Brannan. He is survived by his loving children, Jill Campbell
Lamberth, Matthew (Rebecca) Cambell, and Wade (Joanna) Campbell; his grandchildren Morgan Lamberth, Jude Lamberth, Maxwell Lamberth, Brielle Campbell, Betsy Campbell, Luke Campbell, and Blake Campbell; his great-grandchildren Keaton Lamberth and Dallas Jones; and his siblings Ben, Mark, and Pat Brannan; along with other half-siblings.
   The family would like to invite all who knew and loved Frank Campbell Jr. to join
them as we commemorate his life. A visitation will be held at Resthaven Funeral
Home, 11817 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on Tuesday, November 26,
2024, from 9:00 am until 11:00 am followed by a religious ceremony. A private
graveside service will be held at a later date.  Read the online obituary and guestbook here.

Larry E. Shavers, Sr.

(3/15/24) Larry E. Shavers, Sr., age 77, passed away on January 27, 2024. He leaves four children: Krystal Shavers, Brandon Langlois, Aarika Seat, and Larry Shavers, Jr. He was preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Lydia Shavers. Larry was a long-time member of Greenwell Springs Baptist Church. Service arrangements to be made at another time.
Read the online obituary and guestbook here.

Donald "Don" Gayle Gallent (November 12, 1946 - June 25, 2022)

   (1/2/23) Donald "Don" Gayle Gallent passed from this life on June 25, 2022, at his home in Brentwood, TN. A native of Baton Rouge, he was a graduate of Istrouma High School and Louisiana State University, a CPA and an entrepreneur. A writer at heart with a great sense of humor, he was always quick with a joke and wonderful stories. As a sports fan, he was an LSU fanatic and longtime Braves fan. He enjoyed pickin' style country music, creating amazing businesses and he loved his Golden Retriever, Annie.
   He is survived by his loving wife, Christie Stoner Gallent; his two sons, Chip and David (Jennifer); his grandsons, Dylan Gallent and Tommy Gorham- (mother Suzanne Swanson); and his brother, Dave (Phyllis).
   A Memorial will be held on Friday, July 15, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. (visitation 1-2 p.m.) at Woodbine Funeral Home, Hickory Chapel, 5852 Nolensville Road. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the animal rescue or shelter of your choice.
   Read the online obituary here.

John Alex Wascom
   (1/2/23) We learned recently that John Wascom passed away in Florida on June 30, 2017. No obituary is available at this time.

Visit the In Memoriam page for a complete list and links to archived obituaries.