Melvin Ray Bagwell
December 30, 1947 – March 13, 202
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Melvin Ray Bagwell, a beloved father, uncle, and friend, who departed from this world on March 13, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on December 30, 1947, in the small town of Winnfield, Louisiana, Melvin was the cherished son of Verda Eva Durbin and Clarence Wilburn Bagwell. He was a man of many talents, passions, and had an unwavering dedication to his family and community.
He graduated from Calvin High School in 1965, where he forged lifelong friendships and began to nurture his love for music and the great outdoors. He went on to attend Louisiana Tech, further expanding his horizons and laying the groundwork for his future endeavors. Throughout his career, Melvin dedicated his professional life to the State of Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries, serving diligently in the Aquatic Plant Control Division until his retirement.
Melvin was a man of diverse interests and talents. A gifted musician, he played multiple instruments and was a familiar face on the local music scene, performing in bands and bringing joy to many through his love for music. His talents extended beyond music; he was an avid outdoorsman who found peace and fulfillment in fishing and hunting. Melvin’s hands were never idle, as he also pursued knife making and woodwork, creating beautiful, handcrafted pieces that reflected his precision and creativity. Melvin’s personal life was marked by love and resilience.
He married Deborah Harper on May 31, 1974, with whom he shared the joy of raising two sons. Though their paths diverged, the bonds of family endured. Later, he found companionship and shared new chapters with Betty Gaines, whom he married on September 7, 2002 then later parted ways with.
Melvin was predeceased by his loving parents, Eva and Clarence Bagwell, his brothers Ray and Buford Bagwell, his sister Betty Haynes, his first spouse Deborah Irene Powers, and his son Greg Bagwell. He leaves behind his devoted son, Jeff Bagwell. Melvin is also survived by his nephew Larry Bagwell, nieces Eileen Hemphill, Lori Haynes, and Teresa Riser, and his cousin Ricky Durbin, along with a host of extended family and friends who will forever cherish his memory.
Melvin’s life was a testament to the virtues of kindness, creativity, and dedication. As we bid farewell to him, we celebrate the indelible mark he left on the world and the countless lives he touched. A private memorial service to honor Melvin’s life will be held in the coming days. May Melvin Ray Bagwell rest in peace, remembered always for his warmth, talent, and the enduring legacy of love he leaves behind.
Carolyn (Gray) Gibbs
February 17, 1948 – March 15, 2026
Carolyn Gray Gibbs of Jonesboro, Louisiana “danced through the gates” of heaven on March 15, 2026. Carolyn was a retired nurse who dedicated a large portion of her life to caring for the sick and nursing instruction. She truly cared for her patients and did not always leave work at work. It was her calling. She was equal parts independent and devoted wife of almost sixty years. She ironed socks and packed lunches after graveyard shifts. She often prepared meals with love from fish and game her husband sourced from the wild. She had a fondness for both the calm of the country and the vibrance of a city and spent years working in New Orleans.
She was known for her sharp intellect and also enjoyed studying law. She had an eye for photography. She loved her children and grandchildren fiercely. She tried to instill in them a passion for learning and the idea that they can do “damn near anything you put your mind to.” She was strong-willed and taught them to use their voice and to think for themselves. She learned to grow younger and more gentle in her later years though her eyes still sparkled with a hint of mischief and her wit remained unmatched.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Donnie Gibbs; mother, Florence “Merline” Gray, father, Joseph “Fred” Gray; and sister, Janette Hall, all of Jonesboro. Survivors include her son, Mark Gibbs (Pam Gibbs); daughter, Tammy Trosclair (Matt Trosclair); grandson, Andy Gibbs; granddaughter, Brooke Sutton (Patrick Sutton); and grandson, Tyler Trosclair.
The family extends their gratitude to the entire staff of Forest Haven Nursing Home, Jackson Parish Hospital, and Christus Highland in Shreveport. A small graveside service will be held at 3PM on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at Antioch Community Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Antioch Community Church – she adored her church family.
Her memory can be honored by learning and teaching others about heart disease, the leading cause of death for women. Symptoms in women are unique, often lack chest pain, and instead include shortness of breath, nausea, or back pain. Up to eighty percent of cardiovascular events in women are preventable through lifestyle changes.
A graveside service was held on Saturday, March 21st at Antioch Community Church in Goldonna, LA under the direction of Souhern – Edmonds Funeral Home in Jonesboro, LA.