GARY ALDEN HAMMOCK
Gary Alden Hammock, of Slidell, Louisiana, passed away on January 13, 2026, at the age of 77. He was born on July 23, 1948, in Macon, Georgia, to his loving parents, the late James and Dorothea Hammock.
Gary is the beloved husband of Linda Hammock, with whom he shared 55 memory filled years. He is the cherished father of April Hammock (Chris Wuchte) and the late Andrew Hammock; father-in-law of Anne Hammock; and brother of Bruce and Carl Hammock. He also leaves behind a host of extended family members and friends, all of whom he loved greatly.
An alumnus of the University of Georgia, Gary earned his Bachelor of Arts in History, a subject he remained passionate about throughout his life. His career at U.S. Gypsum Company was marked by dedication and a strong work ethic, which earned him the respect and friendship of his colleagues.
Gary’s love for the outdoors was evident to all who knew him. He found solace and joy as a volunteer ranger at Honey Island Swamp, where he could immerse himself in the environment he worked to protect. His hobbies also included fishing and camping, activities that allowed him to share his appreciation for nature with his family and friends. A chef at heart, Gary enjoyed preparing meals for his loved ones, often using his catch of the day as the centerpiece. An animal lover, his compassion extended to all living creatures.
Gary’s spirit will forever be a beacon of light for his family, guiding them with the same love and kindness he so freely gave during his time with us. His presence will be deeply missed, but the impact of his life’s journey will continue to inspire for generations to come.
Services were held on Monday, January 19, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Audubon Funeral Home in Slidell. A funeral service began in the chapel at noon. Flowers or donations to the Slidell Humane Society are appreciated. Memories and condolences may be expressed at www.AudubonFuneralHome.com.
BETTY JO VANSANDT
Betty Jo Vansandt, age 92, a native of Vivian, Louisiana, LA, passed away on January 7, 2026, in Slidell, Louisiana.
Betty Jo VanSandt was born in Wright City, Texas.
She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard B. VanSandt, former Slidell City Councilman, along with her father Jarrell G. Connell and her mother Mildred B. Connell.
She is survived by three children Cindy Guthrie Leary (Matt), Jerri Guthrie Reeves, and Don Scott VanSandt. Also, survived by three grandchildren Dylan Suarez (Erica), Leah Broom (Nick), and Calli Reeves (Ronald) and twelve great-grandchildren Savanna, Londyn, Dylan Jr., Elliot, Kennedy, Davis, Amelia, Leighton, Giuliana, Brynlee, Drake, and Maci.
Before retiring Mrs. Betty Jo VanSandt spent her time as a hairdresser in the field of cosmetology.
Betty’s life sparkled just as much as her taste in fashion and décor until her last days. She loved people and took an active role in spreading smiles and laughter to all. A longtime resident of Slidell, she found belonging in many social circles through the years. She spent her last ten years living her best life at Summerfield Retirement Community where she continued to make her mark by welcoming new residents, being voted Queen of the Mardi Gras Ball, and affectionately being called “Betty Bling” by staff and residents for her sparkly jewelry and clothing. Once you met Betty, you could not forget her. She adored her friends and they felt the same way about her.
Betty’s most noteworthy roles were as beloved wife of 37 years to her husband, Van, and Mother to her children. She was “Gigi” to her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and numerous family members. She was the beloved Matriarch of the family and there was no place she would rather be than surrounded by those she loved. She clung tight to her family and God throughout her life. Her friends and family will miss her very much and she will be remembered for the light, sparkle, and sweetness she brought to the world.
Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the celebration of Betty’s life on January 27, 2026, at Honaker Funeral Home, 1751 Gause Blvd. West (in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Slidell, LA. Visitation from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. with service beginning at 2 p.m.
Arrangements by Honaker Funeral Home, Inc., Slidell, LA.
JAMES R JEFFERS
James R. Jeffers, 61 of Slidell, Louisiana went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 10, 2026 from natural causes. Born October 22, 1964, in McAllen, Texas. James was the son of the late James Lloyd and Kitty Jeffers. He is also predeceased by his daughter, Stephanie Jeffers.
James was a devoted husband, father and friend. James is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Theresa, his son who honored him on a daily basis, Carlos Jeffers as well as two daughters, Elizabeth Jeffers of Texas and Gabriella Jeffers of Georgia. Also left to cherish his memory are his three furry friends, Sonny, Roscoe and Loki.
Celebration of Life Service on Sunday, January 25, 2026 at 4 p.m., Celebration Church 1615 Old Spanish Trail, Slidell, Louisiana 70458.
Honaker Funeral Home Obituary Listings
(For more information on services, contact Honaker at 985-641-1900 or online at: honakerforestlawn.com)
Bertram “Bert” Pichon, age 90, of Slidell, LA, passed away on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.
He served in the U.S. Army, and later the Army Reserve, stationed in Korea, and Fort Brag with the 3rd Battalion, 16th Field Artillery Regiment.
He worked at Kaiser Aluminum in Chalmette, the shipyard in Slidell and then Folgers Coffee plant in New Orleans.
He loved music and was a member of the Mason’s Pearl Lodge #456 for 56 years, holding many leadership roles. He was also a member of the Slidell Lodge and Graham-Washington Lodge, serving as Master there during 2025.
James Alan Graham, age 62, of New Orleans, LA, passed away on Saturday, January 10, 2026.
Born in Oakland, CA, he graduated from Slidell High and enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served for over 20 years.
After the service, he became a Surgical OR Nurse at Baltimore Washington Medical Center after graduating from Anne Arundel Community College in Baltimore, MD.
He later worked for Ochsner in New Orleans with several key roles in surgery and later earned a BSN degree from Chamberlain University.
Greg Edwin Ehrlicher, age 78, of Slidell, LA, passed away on Friday, January 9, 2026.
He served in the U.S. Navy, including tours in Vietnam where he earned several commendations for bravery and leadership. He was later a member of the American Legion Post #374, VFW Post #5174, and Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #627.
He retired from BellSouth after 36 years of service and was a lifetime member of the AT&T Pioneers.
He was active with the Slidell Youth Football Association and the Slidell Bantam Baseball Association, volunteering and holding leadership roles.
Audubon Funeral Home Obituary Listings
(For information on services, contact Audubon at 985-645-0600 or online at: audubonfuneralhome.com)
Paul David Ory, Sr., age 74, of Slidell, LA, passed away on Saturday, January 10, 2026.
Born in Shreveport, LA, he served in the U.S. Army, then later graduated from Jefferson Technical College and had a career as a technician at Dow Chemical.
He was an avid Saints fan, rarely missing a game, and will be remembered for his storytelling skills, while he also enjoyed gardening and do-it-yourselfer tasks at home.
Martin Alfred Clark, Jr., age 78, of Slidell, LA, passed away on Sunday, January 11, 2026.
Born in New Orleans, LA, he served in the U.S. Navy, then later had a career in the oil and gas industry, which he retired from after many years, and then became a commercial fisherman.
He had a love for the outdoors.
Marlene Cabiran Connetti, age 87, of Pearl River, LA, passed away on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
She graduated from Nicholls High School in New Orleans and then worked at South Central Bell and Frank Silva & Sons.
She was a talented artist and was involved with the CYO volleyball league, a bowling league and was a member of the Arabi Cootie Club. She also loved music and dancing.
Frances Esther Leblanc Readeau, age 86, of Slidell, LA, passed away on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
Born in New Orleans, LA, she graduated from Annunciation High School and later became owner of an employment agency.
She was a woman of great faith who loved the rich culture and traditions of New Orleans.
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