Rayville post office renamed to honor Letlow

The Rayville Post Office was officially renamed the Luke Letlow Post Office Building in honor of the late Congressman-elect Luke Letlow on May 10.

The recognition in Letlow’s home parish was made possible by legislation introduced by House Majority Leader Steve Scalise and signed into law late last year.

Congresswoman Julia Letlow lost her husband, Luke, to COVID-19 on Dec. 29, 2020, following his election to Congress and years of service in both the federal and state governments.

Congresswoman Letlow, former Congressman Ralph Abraham, and a large gathering of family and friends came together at the post office to celebrate the dedication.

“The Luke Letlow Post Office will stand as a monument to Luke’s servant’s heart and his dedication to the rural communities of north Louisiana,” said Congresswoman Julia Letlow. “Luke was passionate about bringing people together -- especially in places like Richland Parish. He never met a stranger, and he considered helping others through public service to be his highest calling. With this recognition, his legacy will live on in the place he called home.”

A son of Northeast Louisiana with deep roots in Richland Parish, Congressman- elect Luke Letlow was born to Johnny and Dianne Letlow in 1979. He served Louisiana honorably for years in various roles, including as chief of staff to Congressman Ralph Abraham and Director of Intergovernmental Affairs for Gov. Bobby Jindal.

However, his greatest calling was being a husband and father to his wife, Julia, and their two children, Jeremiah and Jacqueline.

Beloved across the state for his servant’s heart and peaceful nature, Letlow was elected to represent Louisiana’s 5th District in Congress in November 2020.

Following his passing on Dec. 29, 2020, Luke was widely remembered for his faith in Christ, love for his family, and passion for improving Louisiana. He had a gift for bringing people from all walks of life together, and he was happiest when listening to the stories of his fellow Louisianans.