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Judge Fred Wicker dies at 98

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Longtime Judge Fred Wicker, father of U.S. Sen. Wicker, dies at 98

Thomas Frederick “Fred” Wicker, a former circuit judge and state senator and father of U.S Sen. Roger Wicker, died Friday morning at a Memphis hospital. He was 98.

“My father spent his life in service to our country and our family,” Sen. Roger Wicker said in a statement. “A World War II veteran, a public servant, a dedicated husband and father, and faithful Christian, he was a role model for many – and he was my hero. Our family is devastated to lose him, but we are grateful for a life well-lived, the wisdom he instilled in us, and the many years we spent together. On behalf of the entire Wicker family, Gayle and I deeply appreciate the expressions of sympathy and prayers we have received.”

Fred Wicker was born in Hickory Flat and attended Holmes Junior College on an athletic scholarship. He was drafted in the U.S. Army in 1942. He served in France, Belgium, Holland, Germany, England, Luxemburg and most noteworthy in Normandy earning four battle stars.

Fred Wicker received his law degree from Ole Miss in 1948, married Wordna Threadgill and opened up his law practice in Pontotoc. He served as a city attorney, county prosecutor and served in the Mississippi Senate for three years before being appointed by Gov. John Bell Williams as circuit judge for the 1st Judicial District in 1970. He served in that seat for 20 years and retired in 1990.

Judge Wicker is survived by three children, a foster daughter, five grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.  

This article first appeared on Mississippi Today and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

Mississippi News

Search continues for Vance Boelter, suspect in shooting of 2 Minnesota state lawmakers: What we know

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www.wjtv.com – The Associated Press – 2025-06-15 08:13:00

SUMMARY: A massive search is underway for Vance Boelter, 57, who posed as a police officer and fatally shot Minnesota Democratic state lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband at their Brooklyn Park home. Sen. John Hoffman and his wife were also shot and wounded nearby. Authorities called the act a “politically motivated assassination.” Boelter, a former political appointee and security contractor, fled on foot after exchanging gunfire with police. His vehicle contained AK-style firearms and “No Kings” flyers. The investigation noted his writings targeted abortion rights advocates. The attacks highlight growing political violence and prompted heightened security for lawmakers nationwide.

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Iran retaliates with missile barrage after Israel strikes nuclear sites, kills top generals

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www.wjtv.com – The Associated Press – 2025-06-13 13:45:00

SUMMARY: Israel launched massive airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear and military sites, targeting key facilities including Natanz and Isfahan, killing top generals and scientists to prevent Iran from developing atomic weapons. Iran retaliated with dozens of ballistic missiles and drone attacks on Israel, hitting areas near Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. The conflict escalated fears of a broader war in the region. Israel said the operation was months in planning and aimed to neutralize an imminent nuclear threat. The U.S. was informed but not involved in the strike and cautioned against targeting American interests. International calls urged de-escalation amid rising tensions.

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Mississippi News

Events happening this weekend in Mississippi: June 13-15

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www.wjtv.com – Kaitlin Howell – 2025-06-13 07:54:00

SUMMARY: This weekend (June 13-15) in Mississippi offers numerous events across regions. In Central Mississippi, enjoy free tours at the Eudora Welty House, World Snake Day in Jackson, and the Juneteenth Homecoming Weekend at Tougaloo College. Activities include concerts, art exhibits, farmers markets, family fun runs, and outdoor movies. Natchez hosts garden tours, fishing events, and farmers markets. Meanwhile, in the Pine Belt region, Hattiesburg features family splash nights, Juneteenth festivals, a golf tournament, live performances, and unique museum exhibits. Laurel offers karaoke night, while community runs, interactive concerts, and theatrical performances round out a lively weekend across the state.

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