The Obituary Section

Louise Hunt Walley

, Mississippi

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the peaceful passing of Louise Hunt Walley on March 31, 2026, at the age of 86. Louise departed this world at Baptist Hospital, surrounded by the warmth and love of her family, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion to those she held dear.Born in Reedy, West Virginia, on December 21, 1939, Louise was the daughter of Donald and Sarah Hunt. Her early years were marked by a love of music and dance. Louise was one of the original 22 member Westernaire Drill Team and Dance Corp from Nederland High School, Nederland, Texas.On April 20, 1958, Louise married the love of her life, Larry Walley, and together they built a beautiful life in Purvis, Mississippi. Their home became a haven of warmth and hospitality, where family and friends were always welcome, and…

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Judge Robert "Bob" Helfrich

, Mississippi

March 30, 2026

Judge Robert “Bob” Brooks Helfrich, 72, of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, passed away March 31, 2026, at Forrest General Hospital. He was born December 28, 1953, in Columbus, Mississippi.Bob spent part of his childhood in Texas and Alaska before returning to Mississippi at age 12 following the death of his father. He graduated from Callaway High School in Jackson in 1972 prior to serving four years in the United States Coast Guard. After his service, he earned his undergraduate degree from George Mason University and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Mississippi School of Law in 1984.Bob began his legal career in Jackson relocating to Hattiesburg in 1987. He worked in private practice before entering public service as an Assistant Public Defender then Assistant District Attorney for Forrest and Perry Counties. While Assistant District Attorney, Bob successfully prosecuted those responsible for the 1966 murder of NAACP leader Vernon Dahmer Sr. This…

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