Yesterday, Buddy Tudor, a “prolific” Central Louisiana real estate developer, passed away after a 17-year-long battle with cancer. Without a doubt, Buddy Tudor contributed to the commercial landscape of urban Alexandria more than any other single private developer. From The Town Talk:
Tudor, who had repeat bouts with cancer over the last 17 years, is perhaps best remembered for having been an owner or primary developer of several downtown Alexandria properties such as The Hotel Bentley, Jackson Place, The Commercial Building and the Diamond Grill restaurant.
Tudor developed or constructed many buildings in Alexandria and Pineville, among them the Alexandria Mall, the Rapides Parish Coliseum, the Cleco Headquarters, the Rapides Regional Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Tudor Hall and Guinn Auditorium at Louisiana College and the One Centre Court and Two Centre Court office complex in Alexandria.
On a personal note, I won’t remember Mr. Tudor simply as a real estate guy: He was a soft-spoken and straight-shooting businessman who shared his passion for building the future of his own community. He believed in the potential of Central Louisiana.
He was a good man, and he remained strong-willed and dedicated until the very end. Two or three weeks ago, I saw him driving down Jackson Street, more than likely after he had put in a solid day’s work at his office, despite his health.
My condolences to the entire Tudor family.
Central Louisiana will always be a better place because of Buddy.
CenLamar 