Trudie Pollard

Trudie Ann Pollard passed away peacefully at her home in Lake Charles on April 28, 2025. She was born on November 14, 1965, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, to John Durden Jr. and Lena Carona Durden.

Trudie was known by those closest to her as organized, caring, generous, and a true caretaker. Her memory lives on in the many lives she touched.

She served others both professionally and personally - as a pharmacist, a devoted family member and friend. Trudie graduated from LaGrange High School and attended McNeese State University before earning a B.S. in Chemistry and her Pharmaceutical credentials in May 1990 from Northeast Louisiana University, now the University of Louisiana at Monroe.

She proudly served her country in the United States Air Force for three years.

Trudie was the loving mother of two children, Jonathan Tyler Grigg and McKenzie Elizabeth Taylor. She treasured living close to her mother, Lena Durden, and her sister, Toni Durden, whom she often said made life sweeter just by being nearby.

She found joy in the simple things - dancing to '80s music, gardening, walking around the McNeese campus, and especially spending time near the McNeese Clock Tower, which she called her favorite place on earth. She was also an active member of the Kiwanis Club and always ready to lend a helping hand.

Trudie gave generously from the heart. She carried a deep compassion for others, especially those facing hard times, and was always ready to care for those around her.

In her own words:

“I have two wonderful children who I’m proud got their college educations to provide for themselves and their families. I have the BEST Mom and Sister who ended up living right behind me… best arrangement ever!!!”

In accordance with her wishes, cremation has been entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home of Lake Charles.