Read the full stored bill text
2026 Regular Session ENROLLED
SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 19
BY SENATOR FOIL
A RESOLUTION
To express the sincere condolences of the Senate of the Legislature of Louisiana upon the
death of Grady R. Hazel, CPA, CGMA, and to honor his extraordinary life,
leadership, and enduring contributions to the state of Louisiana and the accounting
profession.
WHEREAS, it is with profound sorrow that the members of the Senate of the
Legislature of Louisiana have learned of the passing of Grady R. Hazel, on February 14,
2026, at the age of seventy-eight; and
WHEREAS, born on November 26, 1947, in Jennings, Louisiana, Grady
demonstrated leadership early in life, serving as senior class president at Broadmoor High
School before attending Louisiana State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science
in Accounting and a Master of Business Administration; and
WHEREAS, Grady began his distinguished career with the East Baton Rouge Parish
School Board as an assistant auditor and rose through the ranks to serve as Associate
Superintendent of Business Affairs, dedicating twenty-three years to public service before
assuming the role of executive director of the Society of Louisiana Certified Public
Accountants in 1995, a position he held with distinction until 2012; and
WHEREAS, as executive director, Grady was a tireless and principled advocate for
the CPA profession, working collaboratively with the Louisiana Legislature, the Louisiana
Department of Revenue, the Louisiana Legislative Auditor, the Louisiana State Board of
Accountancy, and numerous regulatory bodies to safeguard the integrity of the CPA
designation and protect the public interest; and
Page 1 of 3
SR NO. 19 ENROLLED
WHEREAS, in 1999, he proudly stood alongside Governor Mike Foster while the
Louisiana Accountancy Act was signed into law; and
WHEREAS, during some of Louisiana's most challenging moments, including the
aftermath of hurricanes Katrina and Rita, Grady's steady and contemplative leadership
guided a membership of more than six thousand strong, helping CPAs rebuild their practices
so they could, in turn, help businesses, families, and communities recover while
demonstrating compassion, resilience, and unwavering resolve; and
WHEREAS, Grady was known for his calm demeanor, integrity, humility, and
wisdom, and he served as a trusted liaison and friend to legislators, often translating complex
tax and regulatory matters so that sound and informed decisions could be made; and
WHEREAS, Governor John Bel Edwards appointed Grady to the State Board of
Certified Public Accountants of Louisiana to represent parishes in the southeastern region
of the state, where he faithfully served until October 2, 2025, including terms as Treasurer
and Secretary, embracing with seriousness and honor the responsibility of licensing,
regulating, and protecting the CPA profession for the benefit of the public; and
WHEREAS, throughout his career, Grady was deeply committed to education and
mentorship, instructing hundreds of CPAs, particularly in the area of professional ethics, by
instilling in them the values of integrity, accountability, and service that would strengthen
the profession for generations to come; and
WHEREAS, he concluded his career at The Dunham School in Baton Rouge as chief
financial officer, where he continued to lead with quiet strength, serving not only as a
financial steward but also as a trusted friend, mentor, and role model to students and
colleagues alike; and
WHEREAS, beyond his professional accomplishments, Grady cherished time with
his family, enjoyed Baton Rouge's rich cuisine, loved reading, and was a devoted supporter
of LSU athletics; and
WHEREAS, left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Cindy; his daughters,
Kelly King and Ashley Istre; his treasured grandchildren, Parker, Olivia, Camille, and Jack;
and his brother, Jim; though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of leadership, kindness, and
humble service will endure in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him.
Page 2 of 3
SR NO. 19 ENROLLED
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Senate of the Legislature of Louisiana
does hereby honor the life and lasting contributions of Grady R. Hazel, CPA, CGMA, and
extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless
individuals whose lives were enriched by his example of integrity, service, and steadfast
leadership.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this Resolution be transmitted to the
family of Grady R. Hazel.
PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE
Page 3 of 3