Baton Rouge bids final farewell to former mayor Kip Holden

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — Thursday, Baton Rouge came together to say goodbye to a giant of public service—former Mayor-President Melvin “Kip” Holden. Family, friends, and public officials filled Greater King David Baptist Church to honor a man whose leadership reshaped the Capital City.

“His voice was a golden voice,” said Southern University Chancellor John Pierre during the service.

Holden, who passed away at the age of 72, made history in 2004 as Baton Rouge’s first Black mayor-president. He would go on to serve three consecutive terms, focusing his administration on unity, public safety, and economic development.

“I think he was the best mayor of our lifetime, and I don’t know when we’ll see one any better,” said Rannah Gray, a longtime friend and former campaign consultant.

Under his leadership, Holden helped transform the downtown area and led the city through major events, including the unprecedented arrival of thousands of evacuees during Hurricane Katrina.

“All you have to do is get in the car or take a walk downtown. Look at the improvements in the sidewalks. Look at what the Town Center looks like,” said Jeff LeDuff, Baton Rouge’s Assistant Chief Administrative Officer.

“We had an event that the world had never seen—Hurricane Katrina—where a city moved into our city overnight,” LeDuff added.

William Daniel, who also served in the mayor’s office, said Holden rose to the occasion in a way few others could.

“He really stepped up. It was at that moment I realized we had maybe one of the most dynamic leaders in the country right here in Baton Rouge.”

Beyond the office, Holden was known as a devoted husband, father of five, and a mentor to many. Even after his time as mayor, he remained active in public life, working to inspire the next generation of leaders.

“His legacy sends a message to the dreamer: keep pressing on, regardless of the obstacles,” said Brandon Lewis of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated. “When you are genuine and sincere in your mission, you will be successful.”

Though the city mourns his loss, those closest to him say his impact is far from over. It lives on in every project he touched, every life he changed, and every young leader he mentored.

Kip Holden is survived by his wife, Lois Stevenson, and their five children. His legacy will remain a cornerstone of Baton Rouge’s history—and a source of inspiration for years to come.