Latest news with #LakeCharlesHighSchool
American Press
4 days ago
- Health
- American Press
Dr. Richard Edward Landry
Dr. Richard Edward Landry passed away Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025, after a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy as rich and enduring as the Louisiana soil that shaped him. Born on Oct. 4, 1943, in Lake Charles to Lee and Willie Landry, 'Dick' was the second of four children and the family's only son—a distinction that prepared him well for a lifetime of being lovingly outnumbered by the remarkable women in his life. Dick's roots ran deep in Southwest Louisiana, attending local schools including Lake Charles High School, where as a member of the 1958 State Championship football team, he learned early that success comes through teamwork, dedication, and perhaps a little healthy competition. But it was in typing class—of all places—where he would make his most important discovery: Gaye Revelle, the love of his life and future partner in all his many adventures. One can only imagine the young man's relief that his hunt-and-peck typing skills didn't scare away the girl who would become his devoted wife of 57 years. Following his graduation from LCHS in 1961, Dick enrolled at McNeese State University, where his track career and his studies would be interrupted by a call to serve his country—a call he answered without hesitation. Dick served with distinction in the U.S. Army in Vietnam as a medic in the infantry. His service exemplified the courage and compassion that would define his entire life—running toward danger to heal others, armed with both medical knowledge and an unshakeable faith. When his service concluded, Dick returned to Louisiana with three clear missions: marry his sweetheart, complete his education, and begin the next chapter of a life devoted to healing. In 1968, he and Gaye wed, beginning a marriage that would become a testament to enduring love, mutual respect, and shared purpose. Dick completed his undergraduate degree at McNeese before heading to New Orleans to attend LSU School of Medicine. Balancing medical school with newlywed life and the arrival of their growing family required the kind of stamina that would have impressed his old track coaches. After earning his Medical Degree, Dick returned home to complete his Family Practice Residency at Moss Regional Hospital, where Lake Charles—and the broader community—gained not just another physician, but 'Doc'—a healer whose prescription often included equal parts medical wisdom and genuine human connection. For over three decades, Doc served the Lake Charles community as a Family Physician, treating everything from childhood scraped knees to complex medical conditions. His patients quickly discovered that appointments with Doc often ran long—because he genuinely cared about their lives beyond their symptoms. He remembered birthdays, asked about grandchildren, and somehow always found time to listen, really listen, to what people needed to share. His colleagues at local hospitals came to recognize Doc's distinctive approach: thorough, compassionate, and infused with a faith that never felt imposed but always offered comfort. He had the rare gift of making complex medical conditions understandable without talking down to patients, and his gentle humor could ease anxiety in even the most stressful situations. Above all else, Doc was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ, and his faith wasn't something he only wore on Sundays—it was woven into every aspect of his daily life. As a longtime and active member of Trinity Baptist Church, he served as Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, and Trustee, but these titles barely captured his true role as a spiritual mentor and friend to countless individuals. Doc's vision extended far beyond Lake Charles. His service on the International Mission Board for the Southern Baptist Convention coincided with countless medical mission trips across Africa, Asia, Central America, and beyond. These weren't mere charitable ventures—they were expressions of Doc's conviction that healing bodies and nurturing souls were inseparable callings. Those who joined him on mission trips often marveled at his boundless energy and enthusiasm. Whether treating patients in remote clinics or sharing his faith around evening campfires, Doc approached each day as a new opportunity to serve. His passport told the story of a man who saw no borders when it came to compassion, no boundaries when it came to love. Doc's zest for life extended well beyond his medical practice. A passionate supporter of Barbe High School athletics, he served as the Football Team Doctor for several years, combining his love of sports with his dedication to young people's wellbeing. Friday night lights held special meaning for Doc—not just as entertainment, but as opportunities to be present for the community's next generation. His friends and family often joked that Doc never met a stranger, only friends he hadn't properly introduced himself to yet. His enthusiasm was infectious, whether he was discussing the latest advances in family medicine, sharing stories from his mission trips, or simply celebrating the everyday joys of life in Louisiana. While Doc touched countless lives in his professional and volunteer work, his greatest pride and joy centered on his family. He and Gaye created a home filled with love, laughter, and the beautiful chaos that comes with raising four daughters. Doc often said that being outnumbered 5-to-1 taught him patience, diplomacy, and the fine art of strategic communication—skills that served him well in both family life and medical practice. His daughters—Laurel, Wendy, Leslie, and Kelly—knew their father as a man who could be both gentle healer and enthusiastic cheerleader, wise counselor and silly companion. He taught them by example that strength comes in many forms, that faith can move mountains, and that the best way to honor God is to serve others with joy. The arrival of nine grandchildren brought new dimensions to Doc's happiness. 'Da' approached grandparenthood with the same enthusiasm he brought to everything else, creating special traditions, sharing his love of adventure, and ensuring that each grandchild knew they were uniquely precious and deeply loved. Dr. Richard Edward Landry lived his 81 years with purpose, passion, faith, and an unwavering commitment to making the world a little brighter for everyone he encountered. He was a healer who understood that medicine is as much about hope as it is about science, a man of faith who lived his beliefs through action rather than words alone, and a devoted family man who created a legacy of love that will continue through generations. His life reminds us that true success isn't measured in achievements alone, but in the lives we touch, the love we share, and the example we set. Doc did all of this with a smile that could light up a room, a laugh that was genuinely contagious, and a heart that seemed to have infinite capacity for caring. Dr. Landry is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Gaye Revelle Landry. He is also survived by his three sisters: Sandy Moore and her husband Nolan, Marsha Chapman and her husband Ted, and Willie Mount; his four daughters: Laurel Carleton and her husband Mark, Wendy Lechtenberg and her husband Keith, Leslie Bradley and her husband Rex, and Kelly Ortiz and her husband Emilio; and his nine grandchildren: Camille and Richard Carleton, Madeline Stewart and her husband Vance, Abbie and Callie Lechtenberg; Bella, Julia, Anna, and Clara Bradley. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Willie Landry; his father-in-law, Elmer Revelle; his mother-in-law, Mable Revelle; and his brother-in-law, Ben Mount. A celebration of Dr. Landry's life will be held at Trinity Baptist Church on Saturday, August 16, 2025. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 2 p.m. The service will be officiated by Dr. David Rose, Rev. Steve James, and Dr. David Hankins—a fitting tribute to a man whose life was enriched by deep spiritual friendships. Burial will follow at Highland Memory Gardens under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, and in keeping with Doc's lifelong commitment to healing and service, memorial donations may be made to Trinity Baptist Church's 'Medical Mission Fund'—ensuring that his legacy of bringing hope and healing to those in need will continue long into the future. 'Well done, good and faithful servant.' – Matthew 25:23
American Press
4 days ago
- Health
- American Press
Dr. Richard E. Landry
Dr. Richard E. Landry MD., of Lake Charles, passed away Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025, after a brief illness. He was a native and lifelong resident of Lake Charles and graduated from Lake Charles High School where he played football and was a member of the 1958 State Champions. He graduated from LSU School of medicine and did his residency in family medicine at Moss Regional Hospital. Dr. Landry also served in the US Army from 1966 to 1969 including two tours of duty in Vietnam as an infectious disease specialist. Visitation for Dr. Landry will be Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, from 10 a.m. until the funeral service at 2 p.m. at Trinity Baptist Church. Dr. David Rose, the Rev. Steve James and Dr. David Hankins will officiate. Burial will be in Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers Doc requests donations be made to Trinity Baptist Church's mission scholarship fund.
American Press
18-06-2025
- General
- American Press
Katherine Bel Blake
On what would have been her 71st wedding anniversary with the love of her life, William 'Billy' Blake, Katherine Krause Blake, known affectionately as 'Kaki' or 'Kay' passed away peacefully on June 12, 2025, at the age of 91. She was born on March 22, 1934, in Lake Charles, La., where she would go on to live a full and deeply rooted life filled with devotion to family, service to her community, and a passion for lifelong learning and friendship. A graduate of Lake Charles High School, Kay stood out early as a leader and role model, graduating in the top ten of her class, receiving the American Legion Award and serving as the American Flag Bearer her freshman year, and the distinguished Kiltie Colonel during her senior year. Her academic journey took her to Louisiana State University and the University of Colorado before graduating from McNeese State University with a Bachelor of Science degree. Kay was a pillar of civic life in Lake Charles. She gave decades of service to the Junior League of Lake Charles, where she served in key leadership roles as Treasurer, Vice President, and President. She served as Chairman of the March of Dimes and Treasurer of the Lake Charles Ballet Society. She was honored to reign as Queen of the Krewe of Mystique in 2012, celebrating with her enthusiastic spirit, humor, and love for Lake Charles Mardi Gras tradition. Her commitment to education led her to serve on the Episcopal Day School Board, where she also volunteered one day each week for a full year. She was honored to serve on the McNeese Foundation, continuing her commitment to education and the future of her hometown. Her deep faith and compassion were evident in her long involvement at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, where she served on the vestry and as Secretary. In 1992, Kay and her husband, Billy, with the support of fellow members of Good Shepherd, founded the Chapel of the Holy Spirit in Big Lake, a mission church that stood as a testament to their steadfast dedication to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She also volunteered at Abraham's Tent for three years, quietly serving meals and support to those in need. At home, Kay was 'Mom,' a role she cherished above all others. She nurtured and encouraged her children with strength, humor, and unwavering love. In their early years, she led a Blue Bird group, creating memories that would last a lifetime. A gifted writer and keen observer of the world around her, Kay found great joy in writing. She co-wrote the book 'Growing Up in Lake Charles,' written alongside Katherine Maloy Newell and Jeanette Plauché Parker, a heartfelt memoir that captured the spirit of her hometown and the joys and challenges of a bygone era. She also co-authored 'Record Run' in the year 2000 with her dear friend and bridge partner, Jim Barrow, chronicling their memorable adventures at the bridge table and beyond. Her writing reflected her wit, wisdom, and appreciation for the people and places that shaped her life. Kay loved to travel and explore the world, and over the years she visited countries near and far. Her travels broadened her perspective and deepened her appreciation for the beauty and diversity of the world, a passion she shared generously with family and friends. A brilliant and passionate bridge player, Kay achieved the esteemed titles of National Life Master and Ruby Life Master from the American Contract Bridge League (ACBL). She fostered a strong local bridge community as the longtime owner of the Bridge Club of Lake Charles on McNeese Street, a cherished gathering place for many. Katherine Blake is survived by her three daughters, Della Blake Rose (Billy), Susan Dows Blake, and Marie Blake Grace (Mark); seven grandchildren, Blake Rose, Annabel Rose Dinnerstein (Jed), Hardtner Klumpp (Julie), Rudy Klumpp (Emily), Walter Klumpp, Lindsay Grace, and Jaimie Grace (Amy), and six great-grandchildren who brought her endless joy, Henry Dinnerstein, Jack Dinnerstein, Rose Dinnerstein, Madeline Klumpp, James Klumpp, and Liam Klumpp. She is also survived by her beloved dog and faithful companion, Ernie. Katherine Blake was preceded in death by her parents, Della Goos Bel, and Rudolph Edward Krause; her beloved sister, Della Bel Krause 'Dudie,' and her cherished husband, William Dows Blake 'Billy.' The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Clifton Williams, her 'jack of all trades' whose generous help, steady presence, and unmatched fried chicken have been a family treasure for 46 years. They also honor Linda DeRuso for her 48 years of dedicated service with the Blakes before her retirement in 2021. Sincere thanks to Donna Celestine and Mary Guillory, her devoted full-time caregivers, who worked countless hours with love and compassion to ensure Kay had everything she could ever need. Their care brought comfort, dignity, and peace to her final chapter. Deep thanks also go to the compassionate team at Brighton Bridge Hospice, whose support and guidance were invaluable. A warm thank-you as well to Rebecca, whose kindness and presence were deeply appreciated. The family also wishes to thank everyone else who offered their help, care, prayers, and kindness in any way during Kay's final days. Your support meant more than words can express. Throughout her life, Kay led with integrity, gave with joy, and cared with her whole heart. Her legacy is written in the lives she touched, through leadership, mentorship, friendship, creativity, and love. She is now reunited with her beloved Billy, her husband of seven decades, on the very day that once marked the beginning of their married life together. Visitation will begin on Thursday, July 10, 2025, from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. in Hardtner Hall of Good Shepherd Episcopal Church. A second visitation will take place on Friday, July 11, 2025, from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m., immediately followed by the funeral service at 11 a.m. at Good Shepherd. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Good Shepherd Episcopal Church Foundation, or Episcopal Day School Foundation. Kay Blake's life was a testament to the power of purpose, service, curiosity, and unconditional love, and her memory will remain a light to all who knew her. Words of comfort to the family may be expressed at
American Press
28-05-2025
- General
- American Press
Robert Mack
Robert Mack, 89, of Lake Charles passed away at 7:23 a.m. on Sunday, May 25, 2025 in a local care facility. He was known as Robert at school, Bob at work, and Bobby by family. Mr. Mack was born on Oct. 13, 1935 in Beaumont, Texas and was a native of Vinton and moved to Lake Charles in 1947. A proud graduate of Lake Charles High School, Mr. Mack went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Louisiana State University, graduating first in his class in 1957. Everything he needed to learn in life was learned at Abe's Grocery from 1948 to 1956. After a short stint in the US Army he worked at PCI. After a recall to the Army, he transferred to PPG and became supervisor of the Process Control group until retiring. He was a member of the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd. A passionate football fan, he could often be found cheering on the McNeese State Cowboys and his beloved LSU Tigers. He also enjoyed following the Houston Astros. Family and friends will fondly remember Mr. Mack for his love of cooking and smoking food on the grill, especially his flavorful Lebanese dishes that brought people together and created lasting memories around the table. Those left to cherish his memory are his three great sons, David Mack of Fort Worth, Texas, Brennen Mack (Marica) of Nederland, Colo., and Aaron Mack of Durham, N.C. He also leaves behind his partner, Anne Corbello. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 40 years, Claire Briggs Mack (his life began when he met her on Nov. 30, 1973); parents, Abdallah and Matilda Mack; a sister, Joyce Mack Williams, and a brother, Howard Mack. 'I thank all that I have known for a good life. Since I'm having to pay for this newspaper space, I thought that I would pass on some advice as follows: It is always easy to make a decision if you have heard only one side of an issue. Conversely if you find it easy to make a decision, stop and think, 'Have I heard both sides of the issue?', and do unto others as you would have them do unto your children. Lastly, I want to thank all of those instructors at the fitness center whose actions helped to prolong my life. To all of those whose toes I may have stepped on in my clumsy way, I say, 'I am sorry' and I wish that I had been more careful. Goodbye and thank you.' A visitation will be held at Johnson Funeral Home on Saturday, May 31, 2025 from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. with a graveside service to follow at Highland Memory Gardens. Per Mr. Mack's instructions, send flowers to a living friend instead of to his service. Words of comfort to the family may be expressed at
