Community Leader and Author Leu Frances Strange Wilder Passes Away

Shreveport, LA, September 5, 2025

News Summary

Leu Frances Strange Wilder, a beloved community figure known for her contributions to education and culinary arts, has passed away at the age of 89. Born in Shreveport, Louisiana, Wilder dedicated her life to teaching, community service, and her family. She was recognized as the first ‘Miss Louisiana Tech’ and authored a popular cookbook. Her legacy includes a commitment to her faith and numerous accolades from various organizations. Wilder is survived by her children and grandchildren, who remember her as a devoted family member and community leader.

Shreveport, LA – Renowned community figure and author Leu Frances Strange Wilder passed away on August 26, 2025, at the age of 89. Wilder, known for her contributions to education and her culinary expertise, leaves behind a legacy of community involvement, academic achievement, and family devotion.

Born on November 12, 1935, in Shreveport, LA, Wilder spent her childhood in Mooringsport and Plain Dealing before moving with her family to Coushatta, LA. She graduated from Coushatta High School in 1953 and went on to attend Louisiana Tech University, where she graduated in 1957 with a degree in Home Economics. During her time at Louisiana Tech, Wilder was an active participant in campus life; she was a cheerleader for four years, served on the Homecoming Court, State Fair Court, and Military Ball Court, and was crowned the first “Miss Louisiana Tech” in 1957.

After completing her education, Wilder married William Mabry Wilder, MD, with whom she shared a loving marriage of 67 years. The couple moved to New Orleans, where she began her teaching career at Warren Easton High School, specializing in Home Economics. The family later relocated to Shreveport, where she became involved with the Shreveport Medical Society and served as its president for a term.

Wilder’s remarkable contributions extended beyond her professional life. She was dedicated to her faith, serving as the pianist for her Sunday School class for over 50 years. Her culinary passion led her to write a cookbook titled “By Special Request – Old Recipes for a New Generation.” The publication gained popularity and led to notable appearances on national television shows in Los Angeles and Nashville.

In recognition of her accomplishments, she was honored as the Alumna of the Year for the College of Applied and Natural Science at Louisiana Tech in 2018. Wilder was also an enthusiastic golfer, holding memberships at both Shreveport Country Club and East Ridge Country Club. In addition, she was an active member of various organizations, including the Cotillion Club, The Demoiselle Club, the Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Louisiana Tech University Foundation.

Leu Frances Strange Wilder was preceded in death by her parents, Parker and Marie McKellar Strange, and her husband. She is survived by her son, Dr. W. Mitchell Wilder, and fiancé, Krystal Leigh Smith; daughters, Amanda W. LaVigne and husband, Kirk R. LaVigne, Jr., and Anne W. Black and husband, Andrew C. Black, Jr.; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her family expressed gratitude for the care provided by the staff of the Cottages at the Glen, Village Healthcare at the Glen, and Christus Hospice, along with her devoted companions.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date in Ruston, LA. Memorial contributions may be directed to the First Methodist Church in Shreveport or the Louisiana Children’s Home in Ruston.

Key Achievements

• First “Miss Louisiana Tech” in 1957
• President of the Louisiana Tech University Phi Mu sorority
• Author of “By Special Request – Old Recipes for a New Generation”
• Alumna of the Year (2018) for Louisiana Tech’s College of Applied and Natural Science
• President of Shreveport Medical Society

Surviving Family Members

• Son: Dr. W. Mitchell Wilder
• Daughters: Amanda W. LaVigne, Anne W. Black
• Grandchildren and great-grandchildren
• Sister-in-law: Bettye Hayes Wilder Teasley

Funeral and Memorial Information

A private graveside service is planned, with memorial donations suggested for local charities.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• Shreveport Times Obituary
• Wikipedia: Leu Frances Strange Wilder
• Dignity Memorial Obituary
• Google Search: Leu Frances Strange Wilder
• Rose-Neath Obituary
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Leu Frances Strange Wilder
• Tukios Obituary
• Google News: Leu Frances Strange Wilder
• Legacy Obituary
• Google Scholar: Leu Frances Strange Wilder

Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER

The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.