IN MEMORY

Today, Louisiana mourns the loss of Senator Larry Selders. who died on July 7th, 2026, at the age of forty-four.

Senator Selders was a steadfast advocate for the state of Louisiana. His unwavering commitment to public service, coupled with his kindness, compassion and genuine care for others, left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.

Selders’ friends, family and colleagues described him as a public servant who prioritized people over politics. He was known for encouraging others, often taking chances on people before others were willing to do so, because he believed in giving people the opportunity to grow.

His belief in people defined much of his life. People remember how he made them feel. They remember conversations that never seemed rushed. They remember a man who cared deeply about his family, his community and the people around him. They remember someone who served without ego and led with commanding attention.

Representative Cleo Fields, who represents Louisiana’s 6th District, said he remembered Selders not for his titles, but for his character.

“A lot of people talk about how Larry was a great representative, a great senator,” Fields said. “You know, to me, he was just a great person. You don’t find that often. I best remember Larry just speaking well, no ill will about a single person. That’s the mark of a great man.”

"He was a big man, but he moved quietly," said Gary Clark, a professor of political science at Dillard University, who observed Selders throughout his legislative career. "When he came into a room, you knew he was there. He had a meticulous presence about himself. When you were with him, it felt personal. You knew he was concerned about you."

Former state Representative Ted James described Selders as someone who worked to bring people together even as politics pushed them apart.
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“Larry’s concern was always about bringing people together, and in a world that constantly makes us pick a side and draws lines of division, Larry was always intentional about not just erasing those lines, but Larry not just built a bridge but he pulled people to the other side,” James said.

East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff Sid Gautreaux echoed that sentiment.

“You’ve got to have a true servant heart and a true servant mentality, and Larry had that,” Gautreaux said.

​As we remember Senator Selders and the legacy of service he leaves behind, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and all who are mourning his loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time.