Lloyd Ernest "Tookie" Lard Jr.

Lloyd Ernest "Tookie" Lard Jr. passed away at St. Tammany Parish Hospital on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at the age of 77. He was born on July 21, 1948, in Hammond, Louisiana, where he lived his entire life. He is the son of the late Lloyd E. Lard, Sr. and Muriel Alice Bankston Lard.

Ernie was well-loved by so many and best known for his sense of humor and hard-working personality. Being around Ernie guaranteed folks a smile or outright laugh at his jokes. Ernie certainly made it very easy for people to feel welcome with his warm greetings. Ernie believed in working hard and dedicated his professional career to the military full-time. He served proudly and honorably in the U.S. Army/Louisiana National Guard for 28 years. He also served in many leadership positions in the VFW and volunteered with numerous Veteran services in the community. Ernie had a love for the Tangipahoa Parish community, having most recently worked at the Tangipahoa Parish Convention & Visitors Bureau until the age of 76.

Ernie is survived by his wife of 45 years, Betty Oliver Lard; daughters, Cynthia "Cindy" Lard (Tondra Robinson), and Julie Teresa Lard Gomez (Freddy); grandson, Matias Gomez; sisters, Patricia Sue Lard Burns and Paula Lard Bankston; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Ernie was preceded in death by his brother, Gerald Ray Lard, Sr.

Family and Friends are welcome to attend a Graveside Service at Northeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, 2412 US-425, Rayville, Louisiana 71269 on Friday, January 9, 2026 at 2:00pm, with Army Military Honors.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home and Crematory of Hammond and Ponchatoula. An on-line guest book is available at www.harrymckneely.com.