Donald Pat Pledger

Donald Pat "Pat" Pledger, 87, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He endured years of declining health with strength, determination, and grace that was admired by all who knew and loved him. Pat was born on September 2, 1938, in El Dorado, Arkansas, to Thomas Asa Pledger and Gladys Mae Payne Pledger.

Pat lived a life defined by faith, service, family, and kindness. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, he touched countless lives through his generosity, gentle spirit, and unwavering commitment to helping others.

After growing up in El Dorado, Pat proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, honorably serving his country during a time of peace. Following his active service, he continued serving in the Naval Reserves while working as a civilian in Fort Worth, Texas. In 1969, he moved his family to Shreveport, Louisiana, where he established deep roots and became a beloved member of the community.

Pat was a lifelong volunteer who believed in giving back and making a difference wherever he could. Throughout his life, he quietly and faithfully served others, leaving an enduring legacy of compassion and community involvement. Following his retirement from Willis-Knighton Pierremont, Pat and his beloved wife, Barbara, enjoyed traveling together, creating cherished memories, and spending precious time with their growing family.

His Catholic faith was a cornerstone of his life. Pat was a member of St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church and later became a founding member of St. Mary of the Pines Catholic Church. Most recently, he was a devoted parishioner of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church.

Of all his accomplishments, Pat was most proud of his family. He shared 64 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, Barbara Phillips Pledger. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, faith, and steadfast support.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara; his children, Pam Bailey and husband, Jim, Debra Sorrell and husband, Randy, and Don Pledger and wife, Michelle; and his daughter in heart, Martha Rambin and husband, John.

Pat was a proud grandfather to Aimee Bailey, Kristen Knox, Jamie Bailey, Tammy Bailey, Eric Crowell, Morgan Crowell, Wayne Pledger-Cruz, Nicole Padgett, Leslie Hadwin, Emma Pledger, Noah Pledger, Alex Pledger, and Patrick Canizaro. He was also blessed with nine great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy and pride.

He is further survived by his sister, Lynn Kirkland; his sisters in heart, Clara Fisher and Emma Fisher; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his love and friendship.

Pat was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Asa Pledger and Gladys Mae Payne Pledger; his sister, Tommy Gene Hayes; and his brothers, Jerry Pledger and Larry Pledger.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Pat's life on Friday, September 11, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Shreveport, Louisiana. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Burial will immediately follow at Centuries Cemetery in Shreveport.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the many prayers, acts of kindness, and support shown during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church (seasshreveport.com) or the Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse of Northwest Louisiana (cadanwla.org).

Pat's legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the friends he loved, the faith he practiced, and the countless lives he touched through a lifetime of service. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.