By Staff Writer | Published: July 14, 2026
BATON ROUGE, La. — Family members, friends, elected officials, and community leaders gathered Tuesday to celebrate the life and legacy of Louisiana State Senator Larry Selders, whose funeral services were held at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Baton Rouge following his unexpected death at the age of 44.
The funeral comes one week after Selders died on July 7, reportedly after suffering a heart attack while attending an event. His sudden passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from across Louisiana, where he was widely respected for his commitment to public service, education, and community advocacy.
Funeral Services Held at Mount Zion Baptist Church
According to State Representative Denise Marcelle, the day’s services began with a public viewing from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., allowing constituents, colleagues, and loved ones to pay their final respects.
The funeral service followed immediately afterward at Mount Zion Baptist Church, bringing together members of Louisiana’s political, civic, educational, and faith communities to honor Selders’ life and years of public service.
The ceremony served not only as a farewell but also as a reflection on the lasting influence Selders had on Baton Rouge and communities throughout the state.
Baton Rouge Community College Pays Tribute
Ahead of Tuesday’s services, Baton Rouge Community College (BRCC) announced that its flags would be flown at half-staff in honor of the late senator.
In a statement, the college described Selders as a dedicated advocate whose leadership helped strengthen both the institution and the wider Baton Rouge community.
“Beginning Tuesday, July 14, our flags will be flown at half-staff in honor of Louisiana State Senator Larry Selders, who passed away last week.”
BRCC praised Selders’ unwavering commitment to education, civic leadership, and public service.
“Senator Selders was a steadfast advocate for BRCC, the Baton Rouge community and 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.”
The institution concluded by extending condolences to Selders’ family, colleagues, and all those mourning his passing.
“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.”
A Legacy of Service to Louisiana
Throughout his career in public office, Larry Selders earned a reputation as an advocate for the residents of Baton Rouge and for initiatives aimed at expanding educational opportunity, improving economic development, and strengthening local communities.
Colleagues frequently described him as a thoughtful public servant who approached leadership with humility, compassion, and a willingness to work across differing viewpoints in pursuit of practical solutions.
His dedication to public service extended beyond legislative responsibilities, as he remained actively engaged with schools, community organizations, faith leaders, and local institutions throughout his district.
Remembering Senator Larry Selders
The death of Senator Larry Selders has left a profound void in Louisiana politics and among the communities he faithfully represented.
At just 44 years old, Selders was widely regarded as an emerging leader whose commitment to service inspired colleagues and constituents alike.
As mourners gathered in Baton Rouge to celebrate his life, tributes continued to highlight the qualities that defined his career—integrity, compassion, accessibility, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others.
While his time in public office was cut tragically short, those who knew him say his influence will endure through the policies he championed, the communities he strengthened, and the countless lives he touched through his service.