MORGANZA — Elmo Sholes, one of Louisiana’s oldest World War II veterans, has died at the age of 105, state officials announced Friday.

“Saddened to hear the news of Mr. Elmo Sholes’ passing,” Gov. Landry said in a statement posted to social media. “He lived 105 years full of strength, service, and patriotism.”

Details regarding the cause of death were not immediately available.

Sholes’ passing prompted widespread condolences across the state, including a tribute from the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs highlighting his enduring impact on his local community.

“We are grateful for his service to our nation,” the department said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with his family, his church family and the Morganza community.”

Sholes was one of several veterans given a WWII commemorative coin in a ceremony held at the State Capitol last year. Governor Landry also declared May 13 to be "Elmo Sholes Day" in his home parish of Pointe Coupee.