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Larry Dever Obituary

Cochise County Sheriff Larry Dever was killed in a single-vehicle rollover Tuesday night in northern Arizona.

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Published by The Arizona Republic from Sep. 19 to Oct. 15, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Larry Dever

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Jim Spalten

September 13, 2023

A tragic loss for the public. Anytime a "lawman" goes down, it leaves a hole in everybody's heart. God bless you sir. Your memory will live on forever.
Jim Spalten
Tucson Arizona.

SONDRA ANDERSON

September 14, 2020

Every time Larry walked into the office he had a smile on his face. He was one of my favorite people. I miss him putting his arm around my shoulder and saying " Hello Darin, how are you today". Rest in Peace Larry.

Pete Lorenz

September 13, 2020

A great Sheriff.Missed by all that knew him.

Mark Singer

September 13, 2019

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. A man in love with God, his Country, and his family!

October 14, 2012

brian, so sorry about your dad
Josh Jacobs St. George

October 9, 2012

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Psalms 36:9

Waynette Hohman

October 8, 2012

My sympathy to you on the loss of your dear husband and father/grandfather.

LaDonna Burgess

October 7, 2012

My prayers to Sheriff Dever's family. I had great confidence, respect and support for Larry, our Sheriff. He was always a kind, caring, gentlemen to me showing sincere support and compassion. I will remember his unique voice and the twinkle in his eye where ever I saw him! So tragic and such a loss for all.

Charles Stemple

October 7, 2012

To the Dever family, my apology for the delayed message, as I just recently heard of Larry's death. I
accompany you and your family in your grief as you suffer the loss of
a father, husband and friend. God bless you and keep you safe.

Charles Stemple, DHS Attaché, US Embassy-Nairobi

Clarissa Beeson

October 6, 2012

God Bless you Larry Dever and your family. You will always be remembered as the best Cochise Sheriff we have had.

Cynthia Ferrara

October 2, 2012

I have lived in Cochise County for over 30 years and you were the best....Prayers for your family, keep watching from Heaven. Thank you for your service, Sir.

September 27, 2012

To the family: Be courageous and strong. When your strength is gone and endurance tested. Do not suffer shock or be terrified for God is with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9) With deepest sympathy.

Mr. & Mrs. Bill Conaway

September 26, 2012

Our deepest sympathy to you, Nancy & your fine family. We met Larry back in the late 80's when we were still ranching in Cochise County. Our son was in DPS in Cochise County (District 9) during the mid 2000's, as well, and knew Larry. We were unable to attend, but we watched his very impressive memorial on the internet. May God comfort you all and keep you in His loving care.

Ron & Mary Weaver

September 25, 2012

Although I did not have the pleasure of being personally acquainted with Sheriff Dever, I was blessed with have two of his sons, Brian and Garrett, on my squad at the Mohave County Sheriff's Office, District II.
Knowing the work ethic, the integrity and their caring attitudes about the community that we served, I have no doubts about the strength and integrity of the father who raised them. Through the media, Sheriff Dever was one of my heros, David standing against Goliath, unafraid and unintimidated.
Having left the Sheriff's Office in Mohave County, I still have a place in my heart for those two fine, young officers.
May God grant the Dever family the peace only He can give. Be assured, you are in our prayers

Pam Christofferson

September 25, 2012

Another patriot and hero is called to heaven in the service of the Lord. Rest in Peace, Larry. May God comfort your family in their time of grief and sorrow. Thank you for sharing Larry with all of us. We are grateful for his sacrifice and service.

David Evans

September 25, 2012

I met Sheriff Dever just over 2 weeks ago. I am not easily impressed, but he was the exception. He was a consumate gentleman and the template for a true western sheriff. His hospitality and knowleged were unparalled. Arizona lost one of its best. My prayers go out to you. It does not ease the pain of loss, but he is most assuredly in a better place now. God bless all of you.

Jeff Clark

September 24, 2012

It is with my deepest condolences to Nancy and Family for your loss. I got to know him as Lt. Larry Devers, and work very close with him and other deputies from 1980 to 1985 as a member of Cochise County Search and Rescue Explorer Post 400. I learned a lot from Larry over those years and have never forgotten what he did for us as teen aged kids in the Explorer Post. He always made time for us and was always willing to teach and learn beside us. I was on many missions with him all over Cochise County. I will miss him, however I will always be honored to have known him and had the chance to work side-by-side with him. He respected us kids as peers, not as kids. Larry, you have worked very hard protecting us here on earth for many many years, and we all Thank You for your service and dedication. Please Rest In Peace my friend.

Patricia Cofer

September 24, 2012

Dear Dever Family, I am so sorry about your loss. I had the pleasure of meeting Sheriff Dever at a dinner for the Cochise County Explorers. My son was involved in this fantastic program and he spoke highly of Sheriff Dever. Our son is also a Police Officer on the East Coast. May our Heavenly Father hide you under the shadow of His Almighty wings and give you His Peace and comfort now and in the days to come.

rachel cervantes

September 24, 2012

sorry for your loss hope everthing goes good for you and your family

Coleen Keller

September 24, 2012

I met Sheriff Dever at Bisbee's Fourth of July parade this past summer. Our family had several children with us and he was extremely kind to them. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at the loss of such a nice man.

Robert & Karen Hensley

September 24, 2012

We are so sorry for your loss. It sounds like he was a terrific man.

Linda Butler

September 23, 2012

Nancy and Family; We are deeply sorry for your loss. Thank you so much for sharing such an incredible man with us. Larry always took the time to speak to all of us in Cochise County whenever he saw us. A man of honor and integrity an endangered species in our world today, May God wrap his arms around you at this time and embrace you in the months ahead, May it get softer with time, Much Love Linda & Steven Butler Benson

The Officers and Members, 512th Military Police Assn.

September 23, 2012

Our sincere condolences to the Dever family and the Cochise County Sheriff's Office.

Don & Tricia Page

September 22, 2012

Larry spoke at the Women's Club several time and we all have a great deal of respect for him. I hope you will find peace in your memories.

Don and linda zimmerman

September 22, 2012

May the God of all comfort surround and comfort your hearts during this time of wrenching loss. We are deeply saddened.

REX ARBETT

September 22, 2012

THIS IS REX ARNETT WHO WAS AT ONE TIM A RESIDENT OF ST DAV9LN LARYY ALSO ASSISTED ME WHEN I WAS A SCHOOL ADMINITRATOR IN BISBEE. I AM PLANNING OFN BEING PRESENT AT THE FUNERAL SERVICES. I WAS DEEPLY MOVED AND GRIEVED MUCH UPON HEARING OF THE ACCIDENT THAT TOOK LARRY'S LIVE
LOVE TO ALL THE FAMILY. WOME OF HIS CHILDREN WILL LLIKELOY REMEMBER BE WHEN I TAUGHT IN ST. DAVID. I AM IN TREATMENT FOR CANCER AT U OF A MED CENTER, BUT I HAVE BEEN GREATLY BLESSED IN MY INITIAL TREATMENTS AND ALTHUGH AT MY AGE, THEY WILL NOT SAY THAT I AM IN REMISSION, BUT THEY SAID THAT THAT I AM DOING SURPRISINGLY WELL. i FEEL THAT I HAVE BEEN GREATLY BLESSED AND HOPE TO BE AROUDN A FEW MORE YEARS.

Richard & Sue Burns

September 22, 2012

Larry will never be forgotten for all he has done for Cochice Co. and the state of AZ. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the family.

September 22, 2012

Barbara and Chuck Kaiser McNeal,Arizona

Sue Kirlin

September 22, 2012

Nancy, thinking of you and your family with undescribable sadness and the deepest of sympathy. Although I never met your husband, he was clearly an extraordinary man who left a great legacy. Wrap your heart in happy memories and warm words from friends. With sympathy, Sue K from ADE Phoenix

F.D. Maloney

September 22, 2012

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Kevin Madigan

September 22, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Dever Family. God bless you all and give you peace. The Madigan Family.

Michele Rivera

September 21, 2012

Thank you for your dedication and service to the entire community of Arizona! You are a fine man and the best example of goodness for all of our citizens to achieve. Rest in peace.

Jacob Magallanez

September 21, 2012

A great Man a great loss to his family and community.

Patti Collings

September 21, 2012

Thank you Sheriff Dever for all your years of service to the community. Your legacy will never be forgotten. Prayers for you, your family, friends, and brothers and sisters in law enforcement mourning your death. God bless them all and help them all find peace.

James Spalten

September 21, 2012

So Very Sorry for your loss. The death of a public servant, just like soldier tears at my heart. Fighting the evil in this world is a thankless job. God Bless you and your family.

Robin and Mark Deskins

September 21, 2012

Nancy and Family,
Our love and prayers are with you. Remember, Families are forever. Live so that you will all be together again. Larry was very dilligent in his love for family and country he will be miss by all who have known him.
Stay close to our Father in Heaven. He will give you comfort..

Donna Tanner

September 21, 2012

We are saddened by the loss of Larry Dever. Such a patriot and an wonderful example of American exceptionalism. Thank you to the Dever family for sharing this wonderful man with the people of Arizona. May God comfort and bless each you.

Colin Peabody

September 21, 2012

My sincere condolences to the Dever family and the Cochise County Sheriff's Office. I have known Larry nearly his entire career with Cochise County and I had contact with Larry on numerous occasions during my career with the Arizona Department of Public Safety and later when I was assigned at the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board (AZPOST). Larry always maintained the highest integrity and professionalism as long as I knew him. His quiet demeanor and smile will be kept in my memory forever. From one Cochise County boy to another, Larry, Rest in Peace, you have fought the good fight.

Colin Peabody Sergeant, (ret.)
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Arizona P.O.S.T
Phoenix, AZ

September 21, 2012

Larry will be greatly missed by all of us. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family. John and Lisa Heard

The Dingley Family

September 21, 2012

Our hearts and prayers go out to the Dever Family and the Cochise County Sheriff's Department. May God's love get you through this most difficult time and know that your loved one is in the loving arms of the Lord.

Andy Salonic

September 21, 2012

To Nancy and boys, I was privileged to know your wonderful husband and Dad while we lived in St. David. He was a great LEO and good man. He always treated me and my wife with courtesy. May G-D bless your family.
Shalom. Andy and Gloria Salonic

Bill McCarthy

September 21, 2012

I recently went to Isreal with Larry Dever and other Law Enforcement persons from around the country. Larry was down to earth,(what you saw is what you got). He was very open to advising me on issues involving my sheriffs race in Polk County Iowa. You see, Larry was a very experienced Sheriff and his advise was golden. Thank you Sheriff Dever.

Jennifer Myers

September 21, 2012

So sorry for your los. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you

Shirley Temple

September 21, 2012

Sending my deepest condolences to the Sheriff Dever family. You will be missed by everyone.
God Bless and may memories last forever.

Bob Gadberry

September 21, 2012

Larry and I served in the Central American Mission at the same time. We were good friends there, and my life is better for having known him. The family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Stefani

September 20, 2012

St. David will never been the same & Arizona has lost someone very important. Everyone loved Sheriff Dever. His sons were like brothers to me. He had a great sense of humor and was so down to earth. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Devers.

Jack and Kathi Schmier

September 20, 2012

We are so sorry to hear of your loss and the heartbreak that comes with it. Know that our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Michael Beck

September 20, 2012

Sir, it was a great pleasure to have worked for you.. You will be sorely missed. We have the reins now... and it looks like we`ve got them surrounded!!! A C.C.S.O. Deputy

Jorge Chabat

September 20, 2012

I am very sorry for this bad news. I met Sheriff Dever in Mexico by the end of the 1990s in an academic project with Professor John Bailey. He was a very kind person and his knowledge was very helpful for our project. My sincere condolences to his family.

Jorge Chabat

Jaynee Blanco

September 20, 2012

My heart and prayers go out to Nancy and her boys. Larry welcomed my family when I moved to this sweet little town and said blessings of prayers over my family. I will never forget him. I love you all, Jaynee, Jaren, Jorel and Jorden Castillo

Pamela Crocker

September 20, 2012

Jennifer, Carrie, and Katie and family. We are sad about your loss; we know how much you loved your Uncle Larry. Eric and I know you will cling together for strength and make it through this. WE LOVE YOU!

Clark Larson

September 20, 2012

I am a Retired Border Patrol Agent and wish to express my profound sadness and sympathy at learning of Sheriff Dever's death. Sheriff Dever was a man of the highest integrity and an example to all law enforcement officers. I pray for his family for I know you will see him again. Families are forever.

Captain Laura Stewart-Johnson

September 20, 2012

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Alan Jones

September 20, 2012

You are in the company of many caring hearts during this difficult time. May God bless your family and each member of the Sheriff's Office.

Charles Harris

September 20, 2012

A great Sheriff who believed in American values. Job well done Sir.

John & LInda Rash

September 20, 2012

Sheriff, thank you for your service, You will be greatly missed

Robert Dekker

September 20, 2012

The Millard Co Sheriff's Office mourns with the family and Cochise Co Sheriff's Office. We have lost a friend and a dedicated man that proudly served Cochise County and Law Enforcement nationwide. God Bless each of you at this very tough time. Sheriff Robert Dekker

Richard Phillips

September 20, 2012

You were one of the great Law Enforcement Officers and will be greatly missed by those of us who have served. A retired Sheriff's Sgt., King County Sheriff's Dept. Seattle, Wa.

Marilyn Klatt

September 20, 2012

Gone, but never forgotten. May you know how many respected him. He was a true American, and our country is blessed for having his service. Thank you Sheriff Dever and Family

Don Turner

September 20, 2012

Dear Nancy and Family,
It was with deep regret that we learned of Larry's passing. As you know Larry and I were best of friends ever since we were in the police academy and worked together in Cochise County. Although my duties moved me many miles away, we always retained our friendship. Please know that our heartfelt prayers and support are always with you and your family. May God Bless Larry and your family, and may Larry enjoy the peace that he always fought for. God Be with You.
Don Turner

September 20, 2012

Our deepest condolences to your family. A great man served a great cause. He will be remembered.

posey nash

September 20, 2012

God bless each of you. Your family and Arizona lost a fine fine man.

Robert Garrison

September 20, 2012

Thank you, Sheriff Dever.

Georgeanne

September 20, 2012

I didn't know him but after reading this story I wish I had. He was a true hero and lived his life according to the "old-fashioned" values of truth and honor and responsibility for our actions. My prayers are with you.
mother of three

Larry Adams

September 20, 2012

My heart and my prayers go our to the family of Larry Dever fir I feel your pain and share your grief for it is painful to lose a loved one. I got to know the SHERIFF a few years ago when he spoke at a Fiduciaries conference and he shall be missed by all who knew and Loved Him. Rest in peace Larry for your good works here on earth are done and you now sit with the angels in heaven keeping us safe from way up yonder.

Larry Adams
Phoenix,AZ

Greg LaFreniere

September 20, 2012

Larry ... was a gentleman first and then a good, honest and sincere lawman ... I feel privileged to have known him and respect him greatly. Greg LaFreniere, former publisher of the San Pedro Valley News-Sun and Arizona Range News

Tom Hannis

September 20, 2012

During my years in the US Atty's Office I had occasion to meet Sheriff Dever at LECC meetings and was always impressed with his professionalism and his demeanour. A small town boy myself, I felt a bond and was proud to be associated with someone like him. He will be missed.
Tom Hannis, Senior Trial Attorney, ICTY in The Hague, Netherlands.

Robert & Linda Aguilar

September 20, 2012

We are sorry for your loss, Sheriff Dever will always be in our hearts and prayers. The Aguilar Family, Sierra Vista

Judy Singer

September 20, 2012

Sheriff Dever was an exceptionally outstanding man.
His loss is felt greatly. I am
so sorry for his loss to your
wonderful family.

September 20, 2012

Prayers and thought go out to the family and community.

Susan Rosales

September 20, 2012

My heartfelt prayers for your family. May God grant Mr. Dever peace, and may you feel the comfort of God's love during this time of loss.

Lori Magnificent

September 19, 2012

My deepest sympathy to your family. I didn't know Sheriff Dever, but have seen him many times on TV. I believe he was a fine person and law enforcement official. He will be missed greatly. I was deeply saddened to hear of his passing. May God give your family the strength to get through this difficult time.

Anamarie and Brian Doan

September 19, 2012

Stand easy, Sheriff Dever... We have the watch now.. Rest well in the arms of the angels, sir... :"-(

Dave Cooley

September 19, 2012

The nation mourns the loss of Sheriff Larry Deavers. This man's man stood tall...a beacon to all true Americans. My sicere sympathy to the Deavers family.

September 19, 2012

May you rest in peace. Thank you for your service to the people and county.

September 19, 2012

My father spent his whole working life in Law Enforcement, a great and selfless calling. Sheriff Dever was among these brave, honorable men. Sending prayers and blessings to all who loved him. Our family offers condolences. Peace and love be with you....Jal Frizzell Morriss and family

James Tobin

September 19, 2012

Godspeed and thank you for your service.

James Tobin
Prescott Valley P.O.A.

Sandra Lee Smith

September 19, 2012

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of a true American hero; one who stood in the breach for us all, every day. Go in the peace of our Creator, Sheriff Deaver, you will be missed.

Melanie

September 19, 2012

My heartfelt symphathies to the family, friends and colleagues of Sherrif Dever.

He was a very honorable person and I am very proud to have him as a representative for our state.

I am terribly sorry for your loss and send my sincerest condolences.

tom bishop

September 19, 2012

Larry was a great man. Our prayers are with you and your family. May God bless you.

Kristin

September 19, 2012

I am very sorry Dever family for the loss of your Grandma and now your Father. Our thoughts and Prayers are with you. God Bless.

Suzette Walker

September 19, 2012

I am so sorry for your loss....my prayers are with you all. I lived in Arizona for 20 years. I know he will be missed by all very much.....family and work.

John Klein

September 19, 2012

God's Speed, Sheriff! You truly represented your constituents well. Thank you!

Patricia Hall

September 19, 2012

so sorry for your family's loss. May Larry rest in Peace and may it comfort you to know he is in God's hands now. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family

Hank Ruland

September 19, 2012

I attended Western States Sheriffs Association meetings with Larry. We had some long visits over the years. May God bless his soul and comfort his family.

Sublette County Sheriff-retired

Carey James

September 19, 2012

Our prayers are with your family at this sad time. Larry was a good man!

Louis & Phyllis Villa SR

September 19, 2012

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

September 19, 2012

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Lisa Brunk

September 19, 2012

He will be greatly missed. A good man and a beautiful soul that touched many lives. Thank you for all you did.

September 19, 2012

My condolences to his family. His ethics and values influenced others beyond Arizona in positive ways. The Nation has lost a patriot and an effective law enforcement officer.

Susan Hicks

September 19, 2012

We deeply appreciate his service to our state. Our deepest condolences.

September 19, 2012

To Larry's Family, Friends Deputies and Co-workers.

I am so sorry for your loss, it is a loss for all of us. For many years his voice taught all of us about right and wrong, and it will go on.
His words of wisdom will live in the heart of law enforcement in the feature. His calm words had away of inspiring people, He was a wonderful Person. I served with him on the A.G. State Memorial Board for six years. and was proud to set with him and help honor the Fallen Officers and HEROES of Arizona. I am proud to call him fried and honor him now!

W. Steven Martin / 911 Toy Drive - FSG
CMA Country Radio Music Hall of Fame

Larry Marvin

September 19, 2012

My heart goes out to the family and many friends and Thank You Larry Dever for protecting us and doing a great duty for all of America. May God bless the family at this time.

Richard &Judy Bolt

September 19, 2012

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Sheriff John Cary Bittick

September 19, 2012

To the Dever Family from the very first time I met Larry I knew we would be friends and what a friend he was. It was my honor to have known a man with his integrity. The National Sheriffs Association and this nation were fortunate the day he was elected Sheriff. I'm sorry for your families loss please know that both Pam and my prayers and thoughts are with you.

Pam Lambert

September 19, 2012

Didn't know you but only of the outstanding individual Sheriff Dever was. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. My husband was a chief deputy back in Missouri.

The Strongin Family

September 19, 2012

Dever Family,
From those who knew Larry he will be remembered as a good and fine man. A lawmen's lawman. He fought for the right reasons and understood that his duty to the citizens of Cochise County was paramount each and every day. Take solace that he touched so many across our wonderful state as well as across the country. Taken far too soon, he will be missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you in this difficult time.

Gary Husk

September 19, 2012

My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Dever family. While Arizona has lost one of the finest lawmen to ever wear a badge, his family has lost a loving husband, father and grandfather. I am so proud to have been friends with Larry and I hope his family takes comfort in the knowledge that he was one of the genuinely good guys who made this state a better place. Thank you and God speed, Sheriff!

Sharon, Brad & Jeff White

September 19, 2012

Nancy and boys, Our family is so saddened to learn of the loss of Larry. We have been proud to see him on national TV and have quoted him often. Of course letting them know that he is not only a great man, but also our cousin. We will miss him.

September 19, 2012

It is with heartfelt sympathy to reach out to the Dever family. I have know Larry through my position at Arizona Association of Counties and the AZ. County Attorney's & Sheriff's association. He has always been a joy to work with and to call my friend. I will miss his cheery smile and his gracious manner. Mostly I will mis him at saying to me whenver we would meet :Hello darlin, how are you today."
Sue Anderson

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