Arrangements are pending for William "Dud" Lastrapes, Jr., age, 94, who passed away on Wednesday, February 7, 2024 in Lafayette.
Martin & Castille Funeral Home Downtown is in charge of the arrangements.
UPDATE: Mayor-President Monique Blanco Boulet orders all flags at Lafayette Consolidated Government to be flown at half-staff, effective immediately and continuing until sunset on the day of interment, in honor of former Mayor William "Dud" Lastrapes, Jr. who passed away on February 7, 2024, at the age of 94.
Mayor-President Boulet expresses her condolences and highlights the significant contributions made by Mayor Lastrapes to the Lafayette community. She said, "Mayor Lastrapes was a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly for the betterment of Lafayette. His leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to our city will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him."
William "Dud" Lastrapes, Jr. served as the Mayor of Lafayette from 1980-1992. During his tenure, he spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for all residents of Lafayette. His legacy includes the construction of the Cajundome and some of the early planning for the Camellia Bridge.
As Lafayette mourns the loss of a beloved leader, Mayor-President Boulet urges all residents to join her in honoring Mayor Lastrapes' memory and to keep his family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Lastrapes served as mayor of the city of Lafayette from 1980-1992, prior to implementation of the consolidated form of government that exists today, our media partners at The Advocate report.
Born in New Orleans, Lastrapes grew up in Opelousas and graduated from then-Southwest Louisiana Institute (today the University of Louisiana at Lafayette) with a bachelor's degree in English and communications. He served four years in the U.S. Air Force in Korea, the newspaper reports.
From 1955 until 1970, Lastrapes worked in broadcasting, then went into politics on the Lafayette Parish School Board in 1972, serving until 1980 when he vacated the post two years early after defeating Mayor Kenny Bowen to become mayor, The Advocate reports.
We will update this story as soon as his obituary and arrangements are posted. To read The Advocate's full story, click here.
