Black Greekdom Mourns the Passing of Omega Psi Phi’s Louisiana State Sen. Larry Selders

Black Greekdom is mourning the loss of Louisiana State Senator Larry Selders, a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., who died unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at the age of 44.

Selders, a Democrat representing Baton Rouge, died suddenly earlier in the week, according to the Louisiana Illuminator. His passing has drawn an outpouring of remembrance from colleagues across the political spectrum, who described him as a man of the people and a tireless advocate for his community.

A dedicated public servant, Selders joined the Louisiana Legislature as a state representative for Baton Rouge in 2020. In 2025, he won election to the state Senate’s 14th District, succeeding Cleo Fields, who had been elected to Congress. During his time in office, he authored the legislation that established Juneteenth as a state holiday in Louisiana and worked to expand access to mental health services in schools.

His commitment to service extended well beyond the Capitol. Selders was the owner and director of Focused Family Services, a substance abuse and mental health rehabilitation clinic in Baton Rouge, and he founded the real estate company Selders Development Group.

The brothers of Omega Psi Phi honored his life in a statement released by the fraternity’s Ninth District, which covers Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas. “Brother Selders exemplified the very principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift throughout his life of service,” District Representative David Washington, Jr. wrote. “Though Brother Selders has entered Omega Chapter, his contributions, his example, and the lives he touched will never be forgotten.”

The tributes have continued to pour in from across Louisiana. East Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sid Edwards declared Friday, July 10, a day of mourning, ordering all parish and city flags lowered to half-staff in Selders’ honor. “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,” Edwards said.

A viewing and funeral service will be held Tuesday at Mount Zion First Baptist Church in Baton Rouge, where Selders worshiped, according to WBRZ. The viewing is set for 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., with the service to follow.

Selders is survived by his wife, Dr. Kendra Michael, and their two sons, Larry and Luke.

We at Watch The Yard extend our deepest condolences to the family of Senator Larry Selders, to the brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and to all who loved him.