Hendersonville, September 10, 2025
News Summary
Larry Michael Hesser, the former Police Chief of Hendersonville, passed away at the age of 82. Remembered for his transformative leadership and commitment to law enforcement, he played a crucial role in modernizing police operations. With a legacy of mentoring officers across the U.S. and abroad, Hesser’s contributions greatly influenced community relations and police practices. His memorial service is set for September 13 in Texas.
Hendersonville
Larry Michael Hesser, the former Hendersonville Police Chief, passed away on August 28 at the age of 82 in Texas. Hesser is remembered for his transformative leadership and unwavering commitment to law enforcement throughout his extensive career.
Legacy and Contributions
The Hendersonville Police Department has recognized Hesser for his dedication to law enforcement professionalism, excellence, and the well-being of his officers. Serving as police chief from 1979 to 1987, he played a pivotal role in modernizing the department’s operations. He also held the position of President of the North Carolina Association of Chiefs during his tenure.
Hesser became an advocate for teaching and mentoring law enforcement officers, influencing 132 agencies across the United States and internationally, including in Panama. His legacy includes a focus on advancing police practices and enhancing community relations.
Personal and Professional Background
Larry Hesser was born on April 17, 1943, in Crawfordsville, Indiana. He graduated from Crawfordsville High School in 1961, where he not only excelled academically but also played football. He briefly attended Memphis State University, now the University of Memphis, as a football player. Following his studies, Hesser served in the U.S. Air Force at Beale Air Force Base in California.
His law enforcement career began at the Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office in Georgia, where he worked from 1967 to 1970 and met his wife, Sharon Hesser. Over the years, he served in various capacities including:
- Lakewood, Colorado, Police Department (1970-1972)
- Homicide detective in Albany, Georgia
- Chief of Forsyth, Georgia, Police Department (1976-1979)
- Director of Longmont, Colorado, Police Department (1987-1992)
- Chief of Police in Georgetown, Texas, from 1994 to 2000
- Came out of retirement to be police chief for White Settlement, Texas (2004-2006)
Illness and Final Days
In his later years, Hesser faced a personal battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease), which was noted in his death announcement. Despite this challenge, he remained active in law enforcement until his passing.
Surviving Family and Memorial Services
Hesser is survived by his wife, Sharon, two sons—Michael Andrew “Andy” Hesser and Matthew Hesser—and their spouses, Tifani Edwards Hesser and Shana Steeves Hesser. He also leaves behind five grandchildren.
His memorial service is set to take place on September 13 at Christ Church Rockwall in Rockwall, Texas, with a visitation planned for the day before at Rest Haven Funeral Home. Friends, family, and community members are invited to pay their respects and celebrate Hesser’s impactful life and legacy.
FAQs
- What positions did Larry Hesser hold during his career?
- He served as Police Chief in Hendersonville, Forsyth, Georgia, and Georgetown, Texas, among other roles in law enforcement.
- What was Larry Hesser’s role in the North Carolina Association of Chiefs?
- He served as the President of the North Carolina Association of Chiefs, promoting professionalism and excellence in law enforcement.
- When is the memorial service for Larry Hesser?
- The memorial service is scheduled for September 13 at Christ Church Rockwall in Rockwall, Texas.
- What illness did Larry Hesser battle?
- Hesser had ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) prior to his passing.
Career Highlights Summary
| Position | Location | Years Active |
|---|---|---|
| Police Chief | Hendersonville | 1979 – 1987 |
| Chief of Police | Forsyth, Georgia | 1976 – 1979 |
| Director | Longmont, Colorado | 1987 – 1992 |
| Chief of Police | Georgetown, Texas | 1994 – 2000 |
| Chief of Police | White Settlement, Texas | 2004 – 2006 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Former Hendersonville Police Chief Larry Hesser Passes Away
Additional Resources
- Blue Ridge Now
- Wikipedia: Larry Hesser
- WLOS
- Google Search: Larry Hesser
- Main Street Media TN
- Google Scholar: Larry Hesser
- WKRN
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Larry Hesser
- News Channel 5
- Google News: Larry Hesser
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