William "David" Rouse, Sr.

William "David" Rouse, Sr. went to be with his Lord on July 4, 2024 at the age of 83. He was born in Columbia, MS on April 25, 1941. 

His parents were Sedgie S. Rouse and Mary M. Bedwell. 

He was blessed in life with three foster "mothers"; Lea Borovec, Etta Lea Holden, and Pat Mydland. They lavished upon him their love, guidance, and wealth. 

David was married to his high school sweetheart, Dorothy Holmes. That union was blessed with four beautiful children: William David Rouse, Jr.(Donna), Diana Rouse Cross, Russell Fred Rouse, and Sylvia Rouse Notariano (Chuck). He also had 17 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.

David graduated from Southeastern High School and from SLU with a masters' plus 30 degree in science education. He loved antique cars, and gardening, but his greatest love was teaching. He taught 33 years at East Ascension High School in Gonzales and Adult Sunday School Classes for over 61 years. 

David was a deacon at First Baptist Church of Ponchatoula, a member of Gideons International, and a past member of the Florida Parishes Classic Car Club.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his foster mothers, two half sisters, three half bothers, and his first wife of 50 years; as well as his granddaughter, Victoria Marchand. God blessed David later in his life with another loving wife, Carleen Bridges. She brought him much comfort and joy.

He is survived by his wife, Carleen, his four children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

David placed his faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Savior. If you want to see him again in Heaven, you must do that too. His favorite Bible verse was, "All things work together for good for those who love God and are called to His Purpose." Romans 8:28

You are invited to celebrate David's Home-going on Monday, July 8th, 2024 at First Baptist Church of Ponchatoula, from 9:00 a.m. until the services at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be at the Bedwell Cemetery on Shady Grove Church Rd, Foxworth, MS.

Mr. David asked for donations to be made to either the Gideons International or the First Baptist Church of Ponchatoula Building Fund.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home.