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

The Calcasieu Parish Police Grand Jury confirmed that Gremillion died Saturday night.

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

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

“Dick Gremillion will always be remembered for his calm and steady leadership during countless emergency situations in Calcasieu Parish,” said Calcasieu Parish Police Grand Jury President Anthony Bartie. “His composition and balance under duress helped our staff and residents make wise decisions based on fact instead of fear. He was a great asset to our community and will be missed by all who knew and admired him.”

Parish Administrator Bryan Beam said Gremillion is treasured in Calcasieu Parish.

“He holds a special place in our hearts because people have trusted him during times of distress related to threats from natural disasters,” Beam said. “He will be greatly missed.”

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 led Calcasieu Parish through some of the most difficult times of the past two decades. We both had the privilege of working alongside Dick, whose presence was essential during Hurricanes Rita and Laura, major floods, freezes and numerous other incidents. Dick was not only a skilled Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, but also a trusted colleague and friend to many of us.”

We’ll have more on his services as they are announced.

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