LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) – Calcasieu Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Director Dick Gremillion, who served as a public servant for more than three decades, has died at the age of 70.

The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury confirmed Gremillion’s death Saturday evening.

Gremillion retired in May after 31 years of service on the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, 28 of which served as OHSEP Director.

He guided the department through changes to include homeland security following the 2001 terrorist attacks and directed Calcasieu Parish to 25 federally declared disasters, including hurricanes Rita, Ike, Harvey, Laura and Delta, as well as floods, hurricanes and storms. wildfires.

“Dick Gremillion will always be remembered for his calm and steady leadership during numerous emergencies in Calcasieu County,” said Calcasieu Parish Police Jury President Anthony Bartie. “His composure and poise under pressure helped our staff and residents make wise decisions based on facts rather than fear. He was a great asset to our community and will be missed by all of us who knew and admired him.”

County Administrator Bryan Beam said Gremillion is valuable in Calcasieu County.

“It holds a special place in our hearts because people relied on it in times of distress regarding threats from natural disasters,” Beam said. “We will miss him very much.”

Former Calcasieu Sheriff Tony Mancuso and current Sheriff Stitch Guillory also issued a joint statement.

“We are saddened by the passing of Dick Gremillion, whose leadership and commitment to our community guided Calcasieu Parish through some of the most challenging times of the past two decades. We both had the privilege of working with Dick, whose presence was instrumental during Hurricanes Rita and Laura, major floods, freezes, and many other events. “Dick was not only a capable manager of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, but also a trusted colleague and friend to many of us.”

We will have more information as their services are announced.

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