r. Joe Bill Reed of San Augustine, Texas, passed away Saturday, October 31, 2026, at his residence at the age of 79 years, 1 month, and 5 days.
Mr. Reed was born September 26, 1947, in Jasper to parents Cleo and Estine (Hennigan) Reed and was a graduate of South Park High School in Beaumont. A retired pipefitter, he was a longtime resident of the Nederland area before relocating to San Augustine several years ago.
J.B. was a great motorcycle enthusiast–he enjoyed many hours of riding along with working on and even constructing. He also had a great passion for fishing and camping.
His survivors include his wife, Wendy Reed of San Augustine; his sons, Joseph Reed and wife Jennifer of Pt. Neches, Jason Lee Reed and wife Vicki of Fredericksburg, and Roy Brandon Meek and wife Shaun of Nederland; along with a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth Elaine Reed; parents, Cleo and Estine Reed; and brothers, David, Jack, and Chris Reed.
A Celebration of Life graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Liberty Hill Memorial Garden, located on State Highway 147 north, San Augustine, with Bro. Chris Burris officiating.
Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, November 6, 2026, at the family residence.
Pallbearers: Larry Barbo, Lee Morrison, Roy Meek, Ayden Biggi, Jack Reed, and Kyle Reed.
As most would know, the color Orange was J.B.’s flavor! His family wishes to remind you to consider this in making your choices of flowers or other ways of memorialization.
Arrangements are under the direction of Wyman Roberts Funeral Home in San Augustine. Visit www.wymanrobertsfh.com for memories and condolences.
CADDO PARISH, La. (Nov. 5, 2026) — Investigators with the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal have arrested a man in connection with a fire at a Caddo Parish church.
Authorities identified the suspect as Billy Van St. Andre, 38, of Doyline.
According to investigators, firefighters with Caddo Parish Fire District No. 8 responded at approximately 7:41 a.m. on Oct. 18 to a fire at Arkadelphia Baptist Church on Hosston-Rodessa Road.
The State Fire Marshal’s Office determined the fire had been intentionally set and obtained an arrest warrant charging St. Andre with:
MANY, La. (Nov. 5, 2026) — The Sabine Parish Police Jury announced Wednesday that the parish-wide burn ban has been rescinded following recent rainfall and improved conditions.
Officials also reported that burn bans have been lifted in several neighboring parishes, including:
Caddo Parish
DeSoto Parish
Natchitoches Parish
Red River Parish
Portions of Bossier Parish
Despite the lifting of restrictions, fire officials continue to urge residents to use caution when burning outdoors and to ensure all fires are completely extinguished before leaving them unattended.
Mark your calendars and get into the holiday spirit as we reveal the captivating masterpiece that will symbolize the magic of Christmas in Many! Join us for the Many Christmas Poster Unveiling event on November 12th, where we’ll showcase the winning artwork that captures the essence of the season.
SABINE PARISH, La. (Nov. 5, 2026) — Sabine Parish tax collections totaled $3,673,888.85 in October 2026, an increase of $99,459.58, or 2.78%, compared with October 2025, according to the Sabine Parish Sales and Use Tax Commission’s October report.
After the 1% commission fee, the total distribution to local taxing authorities was $3,637,149.96.
The Town of Many reported October collections of $149,966.50, down 9.99% from the $166,611.97 collected in October 2025.
Year-to-date collections for Sabine Parish totaled $38,807,325.64, compared with $35,504,101.64 during the same period in 2025. That represents an increase of $3,303,224, or 9.30%.
The Town of Many’s year-to-date collections totaled $1,657,992.37, down 3.65% compared with the same period last year.
The report also lists 24 new tax accounts for October, bringing the parishwide total to 6,496.
SABINE PARISH, La. (Nov. 5, 2026) — Sabine Parish Schools will host Community Programs Day on Thursday, Nov. 19, inviting community organizations, clubs and programs to visit local schools and connect with students.
The event will provide participating groups an opportunity to share information about their services, activities and available opportunities.
Organizations invited to participate include Gideons International, Toledo Bend Baptist, Resort Ministry, Child Evangelism Fellowship and other community groups.
Organizations interested in participating should contact Helen McDonald at 318-256-9228, extension 70102, or by email at [email protected].
MANY, La. (Nov. 5, 2026) — The Sabine Cruisers Car Club will host a car show Saturday, Nov. 21, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at VFW Post 4858, 1738 San Antonio Avenue in Many.
The event is open to cars, trucks and side-by-sides. Activities will include music, food, kids’ activities, vendors and raffles.
Vehicle entry is $20 for pre-registration or $25 on the day of the show. Spectator admission is $10.
Awards will be presented in several categories, including Best Truck, Best Car, Best Unfinished Ride, Best Side-by-Side and People’s Choice.
For pre-registration, call or text 318-471-4675. Vendors and sponsors are also welcome.