(Editor’s note: This case remains under investigation until autopsy results are complete.)

By Pat Culverhouse

Former Webster Parish Registrar of Voters Melanie Smith and her husband Kenny were found dead inside their home outside Dixie Inn Wednesday after deputies reportedly responded to a call for a welfare check.

Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker said the bodies of the couple were found inside the residence in the 5500 block of LA Hwy. 528 shortly after 8 p.m.

“The bodies have been sent to Little Rock (Arkansas) for autopsy, and our investigators are continuing to look into the circumstances surrounding the deaths,” Parker said.

Melanie Smith, 63, was sworn in as Registrar in 2003 after serving as Chief Deputy Registrar since September, 1991. She completed 29 years of service in the office with her retirement in December, 2020.

Kenny Smith, 58, had retired after his family-owned businesses in Dixie Inn were sold. After his retirement, he continued to maintain rental properties he owned in the local area.