Leaders on the life of Edwin Edwards

The following are statements released on the death of former Governor Edwin Edwards:

Governor John Bel Edwards: Few people have made such an indelible mark on our state as Governor Edwin Edwards.

At just 17, he joined the Navy during World War II, beginning a lifetime of service to his state and country. He represented Louisiana’s 7th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives and served as the state’s only four-term governor, leading Louisiana through pivotal years of growth including launching efforts to create the state’s current constitution. Gov. Edwards was a fervent supporter of civil rights and ensured that his administration was as diverse as Louisiana, a commitment I have also made as governor.

Edwin was a larger than life figure known for his wit and charm, but he will be equally remembered for being a compassionate leader who cared for the plight of all Louisianans. Our state has lost a giant, and we will miss him dearly.

Donna and I send our deepest condolences to his wife, Trina, family and all who were blessed to call him a friend and ask everyone to join us in praying for God to comfort them during this difficult time.

Senate President Patrick "Page" Cortez said, “It is with a heavy heart that I must speak on the passing of former Governor Edwin Edwards. He was a trailblazer for the state of Louisiana, serving as a state senator, US congressman and as Louisiana’s longest serving Governor, with 4 terms. His influence was greatly felt especially through his yearning to help minority groups and those less fortunate. His charm and wit along with his political fortitude will certainly be very much a part of his legacy."

Speaker Clay Schexnayder said, “I first met Edwin Edwards before I was in politics and was working as a mechanic. The thing I admired most about him is whether I was working as a mechanic or serving as a Speaker of the House he treated me no different. He won over the people of Louisiana with a big personality and with compassion, holding the longest-running reign as governor to prove it. He stood up for what he believed whether it was the popular opinion or not and led our great state through both trying times and through days of great strength. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. I extend my thoughts and prayers to his family during this difficult time. May they find peace in knowing he lived a full life.”

Congresswoman Julia Letlow (LA-05) released the following statement upon the death of former Louisiana Governor Edwin Edwards:

“I want to express my condolences to the family of Gov. Edwin Edwards and his countless friends across Louisiana. He lived a long and remarkable life that took him from rural Avoyelles Parish to the Governor’s Mansion and left a lasting impact on our state. Like many, I will remember him as a true Louisiana original for bringing his own unique style to our politics and embodying our state’s joie de vivre.”