Richard D. Jessup

Richard Dwight Jessup entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior on March 19, 2026. While our hearts mourn his passing, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life and the peace he now experiences in Heaven.

Rich was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and faithful servant of God. He lived his life as a reflection of Christ's love-leading his family with strength, humility, and unwavering faith. His life was a testimony of God's goodness, and he never missed an opportunity to encourage others, share kindness, and be a light to those around him.

Rich served with honor and integrity throughout his professional life. He was a retired Chief of Police who dedicated himself to protecting and serving his community with courage and compassion. He later continued his mission of leadership and mentorship as President and CEO of Tactical Education and Mentoring LLC (T.E.A.M) and Law Enforcement Leadership Ministries (LELM). In addition, he served as a college adjunct professor, an education administrator/CEO, and as a pastor, guiding others spiritually while investing his knowledge, wisdom, and faith into future generations. Rich was also an incredibly talented athlete, whose dedication, discipline, and teamwork in sports reflected the same character he carried into every aspect of his life. His passion for leadership, service, faith, and athletics left a lasting impact on countless lives.

Rich was also a member and leader in numerous professional organizations, including the Arizona Chiefs of Police Association (AACOP), the Arizona Law Enforcement Accreditation Program (ALEAP), the former Arizona Governor's Commission to Prevent Violence Against Women, the former Arizona Governor's Taskforce for Human/Sex Trafficking, the Select Council on Progressive Enforcement (S.C.O.P.E.), the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the FBI Law Enforcement Leadership Development Association (FBI LEEDA), the Arizona Homicide Investigators Association, the Fraternal Order of Police (F.O.P.), the Arizona Supreme Court Committee Workgroup for DUI Case Processing, and Amberly's Place Board of the Yuma Domestic Violence Coalition.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Lisa Jessup; his daughter, Larissa Caban and her husband Raphael Caban; his son, Richard Ryan Jessup and his wife Krystal Jessup. Richard was a proud and loving grandfather to Christiana Caban, Malaqui Caban, Azara Caban, Liliana Jessup, and Austin Jessup, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy.

He is also survived by his sister, Judy Ricks and her husband Randy Ricks, and his brother, Steve Jessup and his wife, Julie Jessup, along with his beloved nieces and nephews, extended family, and many dear friends whose lives were deeply touched by his love and faith. His parents, Dick Jessup and Shirley Jessup, preceded him in death.

Rich's legacy is one of love, faith, and devotion. He showed his family what it means to walk with God, to love unconditionally, and to live a life of purpose. Though he is no longer with us, his impact will continue through the lives he shaped and the faith he instilled.

We take comfort in knowing that he has heard the words,

"Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23

A celebration of Rich's life will be held on April 24th, 2026 at Dream City Church- Phoenix @ 4:00pm MST. We invite all who attend to honor Rich by wearing blue-his favorite color and a reflection of his love for the Dodgers.

Following the service, there will be a small reception where family and friends can gather, share memories, and celebrate the beautiful life he lived.

His life was a blessing, his memory a treasure, and he will be loved and remembered always.