Larry Emerson Perdue

Lawrence “Larry” Emerson Perdue, III, passed away on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on April 5, 1943, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Larry was the cherished son of the late Emerson L. and Agnes James Perdue. Larry had a passion for learning, and teaching others. He earned his BA in Education in 1965 from Northwestern State University and completed his M.Ed at Louisiana State University in 1968, along with extensive coursework toward a Doctorate. He dedicated his career to education, beginning as a teacher and eventually serving as Principal at St. Amant Elementary from 1965 to 1985, followed by his role as Head Master at Christian Life Academy from 1985 until his retirement in 2005. His love for teaching shaped the lives of countless students, and he was a true beacon of knowledge in the community. 

Larry was a devout member of Christian Life Fellowship and Healing Place Church, where he found joy in studying God’s word, and taught Sunday School for many years. He was an ordained minister and his commitment to his faith extended beyond the classroom, as he participated in mission trips to India and Russia, sharing the message of hope and love. In his leisure time, Larry found solace in reading and exploring history, particularly his passion for Civil War history . 

Larry is preceded in death by his parents, his son, Darren Keith Perdue, grandson, Taylor Tupman; and niece, Jennifer Lynn Campagna; paternal grandparents, Lawrence E. and Eva Webb Perdue; and maternal grandparents, Marshall and Lela Broussard James.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Pamela Smith Perdue; daughters, Stefanie Ruff (Phillip) and Milét Phillips; sister, Barbara Campagna (Mickey); uncle, Walter Perdue Sr; grandchildren, Gabriel and Camille Ruff, McKinsey and Miles Shilling, and Christopher Keith Perdue; 2 nephews Michael Mark Campagna (Jessica) and Andrew Lawrence Campagna (Annette).

Also survived by his great nieces and nephews, Claire, Michael James, Malachi, Isaac, Cecilia, Maggie, and Joan Campagna.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Jody Lafield and Wayne Austin for their unwavering friendship. Also to the ladies at Landmark South, Renata, Brenda, Sherela, Assuria, Crissy, Monique, and Kimberly for their exceptional care during Larry's time with them. The family would like to invite all who knew and loved Larry to join them as we commemorate his life. A visitation will be held at Resthaven Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Hwy., in Baton Rouge, from 9:00 am until funeral services at 11:00am, with graveside services to follow.

In lieu of flowers, we would like donations made to Casa de la Luz, an orphanage in Mexico started by the late Ollie Lovett. The address is Rancho Louisiana, 19202 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70809.