Families and friends across the Monroe area have gathered in recent days to honor the lives of community members whose passing leaves lasting legacies of love, faith, and service.
Jason Cole, 48
Jason Lee Cole, a 48-year-old truck driver from Monroe, passed away September 11, 2025. His funeral service was held Friday, September 26, at Greater New Antioch Baptist Church in Monroe. Burial followed at Richwood Gardens under the direction of Smith Funeral Home.
Vada Mims, 88
Vada Mac Mims, a longtime Monroe educator, died September 13, 2025. Visitation was held September 26 at Riverside Baptist Church. Services followed Saturday, September 27, at Greater New Antioch Baptist Church. She was laid to rest at Richwood Gardens.
Shangarica Jones, 41
Shangarica LiL’esha Jones, 41, of Forney, Texas and formerly of Monroe, passed away September 17, 2025. Visitation was held Friday, September 26, at Smith Funeral Home. Funeral services were conducted Saturday, September 27, at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, with burial at Richwood Gardens.
Shirley Handy, 51
Shirley Banks Handy, 51, of Monroe, died September 18, 2025. Visitation was held Tuesday, September 30, at Smith Funeral Home. Her funeral service was conducted Wednesday, October 1, at Logtown Baptist Church in Monroe, with interment at the Northeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Rayville.
