BATON ROUGE — East Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sid Edwards has declared Friday, July 10, a Day of Mourning for State Senator Larry Selders, who died earlier this week at age 44.
Official observance, flags lowered
The proclamation directs flags at city-parish facilities to be flown at half-staff beginning Friday and continuing through the weekend. They are scheduled to return to full staff on Monday, July 13. The action signals the city-parish’s recognition of Selders’ public service and the impact of his death on the community.
"Senator Selders was a friend to all who knew him. Throughout his years of public service, he was always willing to lend a helping hand and was a tireless advocate for Baton Rouge and the people of East Baton Rouge Parish. His commitment to our community and his dedication to serving others will leave a lasting impact."
Local and statewide context
Selders represented District 14 in the Louisiana Senate. His passing has prompted condolences from elected officials and a formal city-parish remembrance. For many residents, the declaration is a moment to reflect on how local and state leaders shape services and neighborhoods across Baton Rouge. The city-parish proclamation follows a pattern seen when prominent public servants die: official mourning, lowered flags and public statements meant both to honor the individual and provide a focal point for communal grief.
What residents should know
- Flags at city-parish facilities will be at half-staff starting Friday, July 10.
- Half-staff observance continues through the weekend; flags return to full staff on Monday, July 13.
- The mayor-president extended condolences to Selders’ family, friends and colleagues and asked residents to keep them in their thoughts and prayers.
The mayor-president’s statement described Selders as a tireless advocate for Baton Rouge and the people of East Baton Rouge Parish, underscoring his role in local government and community life. For many who worked with him or received constituent services, the loss is not only political but personal.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date declared | Friday, July 10 |
| Flag status | Half-staff from July 10–12; back to full staff July 13 |
| Senate district | District 14 |
As Baton Rouge observes the official mourning period, city and parish offices will continue day-to-day operations. The proclamation provides a formal window for residents to pay respects and for officials to coordinate any additional memorial plans or public services tied to Selders’ passing.
Follow local news channels and city-parish announcements for updates on memorial arrangements and any scheduled public services.
