Jerry Polk

BATON ROUGE - It is with heavy hearts that the family of Jerry Polk announces his passing on Wednesday, March 31, 2021 at the age of 83.  Family and friends are invited to join a Celebration of Life on Wednesday, April 7, 2021 at Ardoin’s Funeral Home in Ville Platte with visitation from 11:00 am until a memorial service at 1:00 pm, followed by burial in Vandenburg Cemetery in Bayou Chicot, and a reception at the Grand Coteau House Ballroom in Grand Coteau.

Born on September 21, 1937, Jerry grew up in Pine Prairie, where his love of family, friends, and community originated.  He attended LSU, joined the ROTC and then the U.S. Army where he served his country in the Army Security Agency.  Upon completion of his service, Jerry returned to LSU to continue his education and ultimately graduated from the College of Pharmacy at ULM (formerly known as “Northeastern Louisiana University”).

Jerry settled in Buras, LA and opened J&P Drugs Inc. in 1969 with his friend and business partner, Larry Johnson.  While in Buras, he established lifelong friendships and met his wife, Carolyn Elaine Scanlan.  Jerry was an active member in the community through various business, civic and political activities.

Those who met “Mr. Jerry” were fortunate to experience his hospitality, generosity, and sincere interest in others.  There was an open invitation for all to stop by for a cocktail, trade a story or create a new memory.  He will be remembered as a man in constant motion for his eternal optimism, infectious smile, cheerful personality, light-hearted humor, and die-hard affinity for LSU sports.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers, two sisters, and wife Elaine.  He is survived by his daughter, Amy Polk Baker and husband Ty Baker; son Paul Polk and wife Marcia Polk; son Jerry Polk Jr. and wife Traci Polk; and six grandchildren: Shaydlin Baker, Isabella Baker, Alexandra Polk, Zachery Polk, Parker Polk and Jude Polk.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the LSU Foundation (www.lsufoundation.org) or the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org).

Family and friends may leave condolences for the Polk family at http://www.ardoinfuneralhomes.com..

Ardoin’s Funeral Home in Ville Platte is in charge of arrangements.