Louisiana state leaders are mourning the death of state Senator Larry Selders.
The Baton Rouge lawmaker died on Tuesday at the age of 44. Officials have not announced a cause of death, but Selders was recovering from a seven-hour surgery in May to treat an aneurysm in his heart.
Governor Jeff Landry posted his condolences on social media.
"Sharon and I are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of State Senator Larry Selders," Landry said. "He was a gentle giant who was respected by all! We will hold him and his family in our prayers."
"Larry was a friend to all he worked with and represented, always smiling, and positive in all he did," Senate President Cameron Henry said. "We will miss his light and his heart in the Senate."
The Louisiana State Senate's social media pages also posted a tribute to Selders.
Larry’s kindness, unwavering optimism, and dedication to the people of Louisiana touched countless lives," the post read. "He was a friend to all and a public servant who gave his heart to every endeavor."
Selders is survived by his wife Kendra and their two sons.
