A memorial service is planned from 4 to 8 p.m. May 21 at Edward A. Dufresne Community Center for Dr. Rodney Lafon, former longtime superintendent of St. Charles Parish Schools.

Lafon, 63, died Monday.

“We are saddened by the loss of longtime, former Superintendent Dr. Rodney Lafon,” read a statement from St. Charles Superintendent Felecia Gomez-Walker. “Specifically, his contributions to the arts have led our school system into the forefront of arts education and opportunity. We lost a leader who was truly passionate about students, the community, public education and life.”

School district officials said they would remember Lafon fondly and continue the legacy that he has established over his 38 years of service to St. Charles Parish Public Schools.

“We offer our deepest sympathy to his wife, Joyce, and his family at this time of sorrow,” Gomez-Walker said, attributing the remarks from herself and the St. Charles Parish Public School System.

The Edward A. Dufresne Community Center is located at 274 Judge Edward Dufresne Parkway in Luling.

The official program begins at 5:30 p.m.