Don John Baudin, Sr.

Don John Baudin, born September 15, 1957, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. A devoted husband to Nancy Baudin and a proud father to Don Baudin Jr. and Kristen Baudin Crane (Spencer). Don was a man whose presence brought warmth, laughter, and steady strength to all who knew him. He carried a fun, easygoing spirit that naturally lifted others, leaving people better than he found them.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Dolores Esler Baudin and Bernard Merlin Baudin; his brother-in-law, Albert Cook III; and his brother-in-law, Floyd Forsythe Jr. He is survived by his brother, Bernard Baudin (Kathy); his sisters, Trudy Cook and Judy Forsythe-Elton (Frank); and many extended family members and dear friends whose lives he touched deeply.

A graduate of St. Agnes and Bonnabel High School, Don carried with him a strong sense of loyalty, humility, and pride in everything he did. Don studied business at Southeastern Louisiana University and, after briefly working alongside his brother at New York Life, followed a path he had long known was his calling. From a young age, he was drawn to sales, a passion that led him into the automotive industry, where he built a distinguished 40-year career. He served as a Finance Director & Manager at Banner Chevrolet and other dealerships throughout his career, earning the respect and trust of colleagues and clients through his integrity, charisma, and genuine connection with others.

Outside of his career, Don found joy in life’s simple pleasures, cheering on the New Orleans Saints and Houston Astros, following Formula 1 racing, and spending time on the golf course.

More than anything, Don will be remembered for the way he made people feel: welcomed, valued, and at ease. His legacy lives on in the love he gave, the laughter he shared, and the countless lives he touched along the way.

A funeral service will be held on April 25, 2026, at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home & Cemeteries, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70124. Visitation will take place from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a Mass at 12:00 PM.

May he rest in peace, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.