Leo Wayne Waddell

Leo Wayne Waddell was born October 14, 1948, in Shreveport, Louisiana, and passed away Friday, October 3, 2025, in Baton Rouge, LA after a prolonged illness.

Visitation will be held at Resthaven Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Hwy. Baton Rouge, LA 70816, on Thursday, October 9, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. until Funeral Service at 2:30 p.m. Pallbearers will be Greg Waddell, Riley Waddell, Steven Mayo, Kevin Mayo, Zack Mayo, Rodney Clements, and Gary Hunter. Entombment will follow at Resthaven Gardens of Memory.

A self-employed businessman, Wayne was the proud owner of Waddell’s Gallery of Distinction and Louisiana Molding and Supply, Inc. for 53 years. Over that time, his businesses became the go-to destinations for fine art and framing in the region. Known for his exceptional eye for color and design, he greatly valued the long-term relationships he built with his employees, business associates and his customers.

Alongside his professional career, Wayne loved giving back to his community and dedicated much of his life to public service. He served his community through a distinguished career in Louisiana politics, first being elected to the Caddo Parish Commission and going on to be elected to three terms in the Louisiana House of Representatives and serving as Dean of the House. Towards the end of his career, Wayne served as the Executive Director of the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum, a pursuit that combined his passion for people, history and the arts. Throughout his public service, he brought the same servant’s heart that defined his business success, tirelessly advocating for causes that improved the lives of others.

Wayne was also deeply involved in civic and religious life. He was a member of the Cedar Grove Masonic Lodge, El Karubah Shrine, Downtown Shreveport Rotary Club, and the Louisiana State Fair Board, and he was an ordained deacon in the Presbyterian Church. He cherished the many friendships formed through these organizations, many of which became lifelong.

Wayne’s greatest joy was his family. He was married to the love of his life, Susan Simpson Waddell, for 54 years. Together, they shared an inseparable bond and a zest for life, making the most of every moment together. Their greatest pride and joy were their two sons, Greg and Riley. Wayne taught his sons the meaning of unconditional love and instilled in them the belief that anything is possible through hard work and humility. His warmth, humor, and kindness left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Oliver Leo Waddell and wife Martha Leiendecker, and his sister, Lola Jane Mayo. Wayne is survived by his beloved wife, Susan Simpson Waddell; sons, Greg Waddell and wife Lindsay, and Riley Waddell and wife Amanda; grandchildren, Harper and Oliver; nephews, Steven Mayo and partner Kharla Barrios, and Kevin and Catrina Mayo; and great-nephew, Zach Mayo.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com.