LA "Cajun King" Dies

 

Edwin Edwards

Edwin Edwards

Edwin Edwards, former Louisiana governor, passed away at age 93 on Monday, July 12, 2021. He will be remembered for his dynamic leadership that transcended party lines and helped shape Louisiana politics.

An Edwards family spokesperson shared that the former state leader departed the world with family and friends by his bedside. Weeks before his death, Edwards accepted hospice care at his home. He allegedly died of respiratory issues.

Governor Edwards had a colorful and controversial personal and professional life. He served in the US Navy Air Corps at the end of World War II; upon finishing his role in the military, Edwards graduated from the Louisiana State University Law Center and practiced in Acadia Parish. He was first elected to the Crowley City Council in 1954. Ten years later, he won a seat as a Louisiana State senate member. From 1965 to 1972, Edwards served the state in Washington, DC as a congressional representative. Edwards was a popular leader and was voted to serve as Louisiana's governor for four terms. During one of his political hiatus', he was arrested, charged, and served time for racketeering, extortion, money laundering, and mail fraud.

Nonetheless, Edwards will be remembered as one of the state's most influential political figures and had a special rapport with a variety of diverse people including Black leaders throughout the state.

Former Governor Edwin Edwards will reportedly lie in state for public viewing from 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Saturday, July 17, 2021, in Memorial Hall of the State Capitol building. On July 18, at 12:00 PM, there will be a processional to the old State Capitol where a private service will be held.

 

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