Stanwood Sam Bickham Sr. was born the proud son of Alice Mondy-Bickham and Jewel Bickham on Sept. 24, 1947, in New Orleans, and departed this life on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2015, in Bogalusa.

Stanwood attended Central Memorial High School, where he graduated in 1966. After graduation, he attended Southern University in Baton Rouge. He was later employed with International Paper for 45 years until his retirement.

Stanwood was united in holy matrimony to his high school sweetheart, Casandra Bickham. From this union, two children were born: Valencia Bickham and the late Stanwood Bickham Jr.

Stanwood lived a very active life.  He was a member of the Gentlemen of Leisure club. He had a passion and love for every sport. He founded, started and coached his own little league team, “Poplas Trojans.” He was very influential in the community, serving as a mentor to the youth. Stanwood made sure he attended games year around to show his support to the children.

He leaves to cherish fond memories, a daughter, Valencia Bickham of Bogalusa; a son, Stephon (Nadia) Scott of Bogalusa; a sister, Essie (Bill) Thompson of Bogalusa; nine grandchildren, Theron Brown of Grand Rapids, Mich., Alicia Bickham, Lakkra Brock, Christina Brock, Jasma Peters, Tyrik Bickham, Tyron Bickham, Tyren Bickham and Myles Scott, all of Bogalusa; five great-grandchildren; a special cousin, Lois Watterson of Clinton; special people he loved so dearly, Justin Bickham, Desirae Pittman, Jalesa Williams and Roderick Fields, all of Bogalusa; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his son, Stanwood Bickham Jr.; his parents, Jewel and Alice Bickham; one brother, Ellis Spikes; and one sister, Irene Spikes Wilson.

Visitation will be held at Cook-Richmond Funeral Home on Friday, Oct. 23, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. The funeral service will be Saturday, Oct. 24, at Bethlehem Baptist Church at 11 a.m., with the Rev. Christopher Matthews officiating. Interment will follow in Robinson Cemetery in Varnado.

View and sign the guestbook online at cookrichmondfuneralhome.com.