long-time funeral director for Blanchard St. Denis Funeral Home, Natchitoches, Louisiana, died May 22, 2010, at age 84. Vercher was a World War II veteran, serving in the U.S. Army, where he was awarded a Purple Heart during his tour of duty in Italy.

He is survived by wife Billie Ray; daughters Debbie and Mary; sons Ronnie, Tommy, Donnie and John; 11 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.