Leroy Rider, Jr., 90, of Baker, Louisiana, was called home to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on August 16, 2026, passing peacefully surrounded by his loving family.

Born on May 1, 1936, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, to Sarah and LeRoy Rider, Leroy's early life was shaped by the rugged beauty of the Calcasieu Parish swamps. A proud veteran, he honorably served his country in the U.S. Army for 18 months in post-war Korea. His foundational faith began at a young age when he was baptized in 1947 at Lake Arthur summer camp, a devotion that guided him throughout his life.

Leroy was a dedicated worker and a proud member of the Boilermakers Local 582, where he applied his trade with skill and integrity. In his personal life, he was a faithful member of Fellowship Church, in Zachary. Above all, Leroy was a devoted husband, a guiding father, and a loving son whose legacy of faith, service, and family will be forever cherished.

Beyond his dedication to family and country, Leroy was a man of diverse passions who found joy in the simple pleasures of life.

An artist at heart, he loved playing the guitar and singing, filling his home with music and warmth. He possessed a deep appreciation for the outdoors, spending peaceful hours gardening and birdwatching, always in tune with the beauty of creation. Leroy was also a skilled craftsman who channeled his patience and creativity into woodworking, transforming raw wood into treasured keepsakes. Whether through a song, a blooming garden, or a handmade piece of art, his creative spirit touched everyone around him.

Leroy is survived by his loving wife of nearly 65 years, Sharon Johnson Rider; 3 daughters, Jullie Rider Assavedo, Desiree' Rider Herring (Jimmy), and Rebecca "Elle" Rider Prestridge; 2 sons, Jerry Rider (Hyonsuk), Mike Rider (Tonya); 20 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; 2 brothers, Horace Rider and Richard Rider; 2 sisters, Sabrina Wells and Janelle Pieper; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Leroy is preceded in death by his father, LeRoy Rider, Sr.; mother, Sarah Reed Rider; son in-law, Will Prestridge; and his sister, Nellie Smoker.

Serving as pallbearers will be Brandon Herring, Justing Herring, Chase Rider, Mikey Rider, Luke Rider, and Jerry Rider.

Relatives and friends are invited to join the family for the visitation at Baker Funeral Home, 6401 Groom Road, Baker, LA, on Monday, August 24, 2026, from 8:00 AM until the Funeral Service at 9:30 AM, officiated by Pastor Paul Downing. The graveside service and burial will follow at Louisiana National Cemetery, in Zachary, Louisiana.