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American Press
a day ago
- Entertainment
- American Press
Bobbie Rae Daniels Khoury Simmons
Bobbie Rae Daniels Khoury Simmons, 94, departed this life on July 3, 2025, in Greenbrier, Ark. She was born in Merryville, La., on Nov. 18, 1930, to Fletcher 'Sank' and Essie Mae Alston Daniels. Bobbie's early years were remembered as a joy-filled childhood in a small town surrounded by friends and family. She spoke fondly of her school years at Merryville High School, especially enjoying being a cheerleader and class officer. She graduated in 1948, where she soon set off for the big city of Lake Charles with determination and a dream. The 1950s were an exciting decade for Bobbie. She was married to the successful record producer, George Khoury of Khoury Records in Lake Charles. Bobbie always enjoyed traveling. Her face would light up telling her children and grandchildren about her annual trips to Hot Springs, Ark., during these years. In 1959, Bobbie traveled to Philadelphia for the American Bandstand TV show when Khoury Records had the number two hit with 'Sea of Love' recorded by Phil Phillips. A photo with Dick Clark commemorates this trip. The 1960s and '70s saw Bobbie quickly grow into an independent and successful business woman. She married Hampton Louis Simmons in 1962. They are remembered as the owners of The China Doll hair salon which opened in 1965. She took intense pride in her craft and in building lasting relationships with her clientele, many of whom became her best friends. The business was a testament to her strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit as it grew to include skin care and a clothing boutique. The China Doll left a lasting impression on the community from its location on South Ryan St. for over 35 years. Bobbie and Louis retired back to her family home in Merryville for 14 years then moved to Arkansas in 2012 to be near their children and their four grandsons. Being able to attend graduations, football games, trips to Petit Jean Mountain and Oaklawn Horse Races as a family meant the world to 'Granny'. An avid gardener, Bobbie had a natural ability to nurture plants and create beauty in her surroundings. Wherever she lived, she spent countless hours tending to her flower beds, finding peace and joy in harvesting beautiful flowers, planning for the next season, and sharing cuttings with her friends and family members. Many of those heirloom plants live on in yards around the country and are a lasting reminder of their original caretaker. Bobbie was preceded in death by her parents; her spouse, Hampton Louis Simmons; her sister, Marie Daniels Pickens Schiflett, and her brother, John Wayne Daniels (Jackie). She is survived by her children, Tye Keef (Terry), Daniel Simmons (Jennifer), and Caleb Simmons (Mark and Jonathan); her grandchildren, Sean Flynn (Elizabeth), Josh Flynn, Chandler Simmons, and Noah Simmons (Reagan); sister, Linda Grant (Larry); four nieces and many other family and friends who will miss her dearly. A Celebration of Life will be held in the fall when all of her family is able to gather.
American Press
14-06-2025
- General
- American Press
Carolynn Sharp
The family of Carolynn Jo Watson Sharp announces her passing on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at the age of 82. Known to many as 'Jo' or 'Aunt Jo,' Carolynn lived a life defined by kindness, faith, and devotion to her family. Carolynn was born on Jan. 31, 1943, in Merryville, La., to Stella Swilley Watson and Alvin Watson. She graduated from Merryville High School and McNeese State University, preparing for her lifelong calling as a teacher. Carolynn dedicated her entire professional career to teaching, becoming a beloved kindergarten teacher whose gentle guidance touched countless young lives. Even outside the classroom, she was drawn to children, always quick to offer a smile, a wink, or a kind word that brightened their day. In 1965, Carolynn married Malcolm Sharp. Together they shared 45 years of marriage, raising two sons, Mac and Marty, and building a home rooted in love and Christian faith. Carolynn was an active member of both Green Oak Baptist Church and Brushy Creek Baptist Church in Merryville, and she served as a counselor for Campers on Mission. She had a gift for encouraging others, always sharing just the right Bible verse to provide comfort and strength during difficult times. Her quiet prayers and unwavering love became a source of strength for many family members and friends throughout the years. To her many nieces and nephews, she was Aunt Jo, always smiling, soft-spoken, and full of gentle wisdom. She had a special way of teaching and encouraging, blending kindness with humor, and leaving a lasting impression on those she loved. Carolynn was preceded in death by her husband, Malcolm Sharp; her parents, Stella and Alvin Watson, and her siblings, Robert Lynch, Barbara Gibson, and Kay Broussard. She is survived by her sons, Mac Sharp and Marty Sharp of Merryville; her sister, Julia Porter of DeRidder, and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Services will be held at Myers-Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 14, 2025, with visitation beginning at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at Bivens Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dry Creek Baptist Camp, 8237 LA-113, Dry Creek, LA 70637, or online at
