KAPLAN, La. — The community of Kaplan is remembering the life and legacy of longtime law enforcement officer Virgie LeMaire, a retired Assistant Chief of the Kaplan Police Department who passed away Saturday. Family members, fellow officers, and community residents are honoring a woman whose decades of service and steadfast character left a lasting mark on the department and the city she faithfully served.
A Life of Service in Law Enforcement
LeMaire dedicated much of her life to public safety, beginning her career as a Reserve Officer with the Kaplan Police Department before eventually rising through the ranks to become Assistant Chief. Over the years, colleagues say she became a pillar within the department, helping guide daily operations and mentoring younger officers.
Kaplan Police Chief Joshua Hardy reflected on the impact LeMaire had on the department’s growth and stability.
“I believe she was a big foundation to our police department, and she helped run it from day to day when it was really needed,” Hardy said.
Her life of service reflects the biblical call to faithfully serve others. Scripture reminds believers, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Mark 10:43). For many who worked alongside her, LeMaire embodied that spirit through quiet dedication and tireless commitment.
A Tough-Love Mentor to Officers
Those who knew LeMaire say she was well known for her firm but caring leadership style. Officers often described her approach as “tough love,” believing she pushed them to grow both professionally and personally.
Chief Hardy said she treated the officers under her leadership like family.
“If we did something wrong, we knew,” he said. “No matter what, you got fussed at, but I think that was her way of showing us that she loved us just as her own children.”
Her approach reflected the wisdom found in Scripture about guidance and correction. Proverbs teaches, “Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life” (Proverbs 10:17). For many officers who trained under her, those lessons helped shape their careers and their character.
A Mother’s Strength and Influence
Beyond her service to the community, LeMaire was also a devoted mother who raised three sons while working in law enforcement. Her son, Scott LeMaire, said her example of perseverance and commitment influenced him to pursue a career in policing as well.
“She was an inspiration,” he said. “She loved doing her job and loved the people. I think that’s why I stayed in, because it wasn’t about the money. It was about the people you get to meet and hopefully help out in life.”
Scott LeMaire said his mother’s belief in second chances guided how she treated others.
“If she fussed at you, it wasn’t because she didn’t like you,” he said. “It’s because she knew you could do better. She believed everybody could do good.”
Her belief in redemption echoes the message of grace found throughout the Bible. “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).
A Final Tribute from the Department She Loved
LeMaire’s funeral and burial took place Wednesday, March 4. As part of the final tribute to her years of service, her funeral procession passed by the Kaplan Police Department where officers stood in salute, honoring the woman who helped shape their department and mentored many of them.
Moments like these remind communities of the powerful influence one faithful life can have. Scripture affirms the value of those who serve with integrity: “The righteous lead blameless lives; blessed are their children after them” (Proverbs 20:7).
For the people of Kaplan, Virgie LeMaire’s legacy will be remembered not only through her decades in uniform but through the lives she touched along the way.
A Prayer for the Community
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the life of Virgie LeMaire and the years she devoted to protecting and serving her community. Comfort her family, friends, and fellow officers as they grieve this loss. Remind them that those who serve with love and integrity leave a legacy that lives on in the hearts of others. May Your peace surround the city of Kaplan and all who were blessed by her life. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Discover more from CAST NEWS
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
