Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Steve,
You are going to need to dive way back in your memory. I was with you when you first began dating your wife. We worked the Legislature together and were lucky enough to save a life while partnering on CPR in the Speaker’s Office. Then we were assigned together to the 1984 Louisiana World Exposition in New Orleans for several months when I started dating my wife.
We were together for a number of milestones for both of our lives even though we lived and were assigned half a state away. I still remember your jovial attitude, your smile, and your continued excitement when we participated in some new assignment.
All our children are adults now. I’ve been retired for many years, but I still think of you, my brother, quite often. Rest well and we will meet again to renew our friendship with a handshake and a hug for all orders we followed and all the years we missed.

Captain Aaron B. Chabaud, Ret.
Louisiana State Police

September 26, 2023

Well year 26 is upon us. So much death and grief have happened, good and but.

Our parents are dead, Sam will be dead 7 yeArs soon.m. I’m sure there as been a party going on. When I die we can catch up.

Miss you, ❤️

Dy 1sr class Sandy Gray Vitter retired
Ascension parish Sheriffs Office.

May 29, 2021

Hello Steve... the last time I saw you, you were loading your car at the university looking forward to your number one desire in all the world... becoming a Louisiana Highway Patrol officer. From time to time, I have thought about you over the years... and with the magic of the internet have finally caught up with you. I will continue to remember you... and our last conversation.

Scott Swanson
Friends at the university

February 28, 2021

I'm Wyndall Swain from Pitkin Louisiana I was the last person he wrote a ticket for speeding he got the call to go to an automobile accident while we were talking

Wyndall Swain
[email protected]

December 12, 2020

Rest in peace Master Trooper Gray.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

January 17, 2020

24 Years this morning you have been gone. I miss you every day Brother. You and Paula I know, are proud. Your sons have grown into two fine men. I feel so sorry for them because they never got to know you. And though I try to describe you to them, words fail me. How can I ever convey the true depth of sincere friendship you and I shared? I've had good friends but you found ways to be a friend, in good and bad times, that I had never experienced before. I tried to return that friendship that in truth felt more like brotherhood. I can honestly say I was closer to you than my own brother. You were a fine man, a loving husband and father and the best friend I could have had during the times that I knew you. Which were I regret DAILY, all too short. I miss you, brother, every single day.

But I try to describe you as best I can to your sons who I love like my own. I go to the memorials, and I give them a hug. I tell a few stories I can still recall, and I tell them how much I respected and loved you.

I thank you for the friend you were to me in the short 15 years we knew each other. I hope I returned your friendship in something akin to equal measure. I truly tried. And I will keep going as long as I can, so I can keep telling the boys what a good man and friend you were. New memories come from time to time, I want to relate those to them too. As many as I can before I am done.

I respect you, miss and remember you daily, and I love you like a brother.

Dy. Shrf. Dwayne E. Larriviere
Vernon Parish Sheriff's Office

May 29, 2019

I know that you visit us and send your messages and love. You were a hit riding the motorcycle into the afterlife conference closing ceremony in Portland last year . Thank you
The aduience cried with your sweet story and I cried because I love you.

Even in death , you still ride fast and loud. Enjoy the rides.

No flowers for your monument ,but plan on watching Star Wars . A fond memory of when you took me to see the movie As a child.

Love you, Two Bits

Deputy Sandra Gray Vitter, Retired
Ascension Parish Sheriff Department and youngest sister

May 28, 2018

I laid a gift upon your stone at HQ today and pondered the past , afterwards I went to mass and cried when 0940 hrs arrived . The hour marked - 21 years since you passed. A time of reflection of what has been gained and also lost as the years have gone by. Take care of all the loved ones departed recently our parents and Sam . I have learned God shows his us Love and Mercy everyday ,or we would never survive. I know your still soaring and caring about your family, friends and your brother and sisters in blue. So here a kiss and my love to Steve, My brother. Sandy

Deputy Sandy Gray Vitter, retired
Ascension Parish Sheriff's Office

May 29, 2016

It has been 20 long hard years since you were taken so tragically early from your family and all your friends. There is not a day that passes that I do not think of you and miss you.

You were the brother I never had and I loved you like one. You gave me so many examples of how to be a better person, friend and last but certainly not least, a good LEO.

I hope to see you again when my time is done.

God Bless You.

D/S Dwayne E. Larriviere
Vernon Parish Sheriff's Office, La.

July 20, 2015

Time may have passed but you are not forgotten. I believe as long as someone remembers you or speaks your name, you are still with us.
Thank you for your heroism.
GOD Bless

Detention Officer A.Zambito
Texas

May 29, 2015

Steve was my brother's best friend, but I Loved him & his family as if we were family. I always just thought of him as a brother. Period.

When he passed away in the accident, it left a hole in my heart, just as when my dad passed. I miss him to this day. I still tear up when I talk about him, and I am always proud to tell others what a remarkable person he was. I am truly blessed to have known him. There isn't a Memorial Day that goes by that I don't think of him.

Paula was just like another sister. I stayed with her & the boys for several months after Steve's death, because I hated that she was alone. I only left when I felt she was ok. I treasure the time I spent with her and the boys.

I can't imagine how hard it was for them to grow up without the amazing parents that brought them into this world. I only hope that the boys are doing ok now, and can lead as Wonderful & Loving a life as their parents did.

Civilian
Northrop Grumman TS/Little Sister (in Heart)

May 3, 2015

Steve was my Brother-in-Law. He was a devoted husband to my sister Paula and an absolutely tireless and loving father to his two sons who where so very young when his life ended so soon.

My wife and I had attended the Baptism of his youngest son Adam just a couple months earlier. I remember how happy we were for them and thinking Steve and Paula were truly blessed.

But sometimes the Lord has other plans for us I guess.

Civilian
Brother in Law

September 6, 2013

Steve was my brother. Or more exactly as close to me as a brother could be. He was, after my own father, first and foremost the finest man, husband and father, I have ever known. He was the most dedicated & excellent law enforcement officer I have known in my life. He took his position as a LEO very seriously, and always strove to excel in it. He was a few years older than me, we served together during the same time period. I learned so much from him and continue to try to be as good as I can be by following his examples.

He loved his family so much. His wife was also as good a person as I have ever known as well as a wife and mother. Their home was always open to anyone with a problem. He has been gone now 16 years, and she for four. Her passing was extremely untimely as well. I miss them both dearly and not hardly a day goes by I do not think of and miss them both.

They say the good die young. Unfortunately, this is exceedingly true in their case. God Bless you both, and your two good, excellent sons.

I thank God that he allowed me to know both of them in my lifetime. I treasure their memories.

Rest well, Brother.

Deputy Dwayne Larriviere
Vernon Parish Sheriff's Office

December 6, 2012

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 14th anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered.

Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05

May 29, 2012

I KNEW AND WORKED WITH STEVE FOR MANY YEARS, HE WAS ONE OF THE GOOD GUYS. HE LOVED HIS JOB AND MADE FRIENDS EASILY, I KNOW HE LOVED HIS WIFE AND CHILDREN. HE SPOKE OF THEM LOT ON THE GRAVEYARD SHIFT WE WORKED MANY TIMES.

STEVE IS STILL TO THIS DAY THOUGHT OF AND TALKED ABOUT, HE WILL NEVER BE FORGOT IN BEAUREGARD PARISH.

GOD BLESS.

DET RONNIE COOLEY
BEAUREGARD SHERIFFS DEPT

July 10, 2008

Today, Steve's loving wife, Paula Gray Austin, lost her 13 year battle with breast cancer. I loved Paula from the first year I met her at COPS KIds Camp. She was always smiling or laughing and had such a bubbly personality. She always shared stories about Steve and the boys, but never showed outwardly any sign of fear about her cancer. Once I found out about mine, Paula was right there to lend an ear and share her story with me. I will miss Paula Gray Austin and I there are many others that will miss her too, for she was very loved by her family and friends. She is at peace now and back with her beloved Steve.

Tammie Elliott-Gehle
W/87

May 21, 2008

"The Badge"

He starts his shift each day
To respond to calls unknown.
He drives a marked patrol car.
A police officer he is known.

He's paid by the citizens' taxes
To make it safe on the streets.
But he usually has a second job
'Cause a waitress has his salary beat.

Now he doesn't know a holiday
'Cause he works all year round.
And when Thanksgiving and Christmas finally arrive
At his home he cannot be found.

He's cursed and assaulted often,
The one whos blood runs blue.
He seldom ever gets a thanks,
To some he's just a fool.

His friends are always other cops
'Cause people just don't understand
That underneath his badge and gun,
He's just another man.

He knows there might not be a tomorrow
In this world of drugs and crime.
And he gets so mad at the court system
'Cause the crooks don't get any time.

And each day when he leaves for work,
He prays to God above.
Please bring me home after my shift
So I can see the ones I love.

But tonight he stops a speeding car,
He's alone down this ole' highway.
It's just a little traffic infraction.
He does it everyday.

Well, he walks up to the driver's window,
And his badge is shining bright.
He asked the guy for a driver's license,
When a shot rang through the night.

Yes, the bullet hit its mark,
Striking the officer in the chest.
But the Department's budget didn't buy
Each officer a bullet-proof vest.

So he lay on the ground bleeding.
His blood wasn't blue - His blood was red.
And briefly he thought of his loved ones
'Cause in a moment the officer was dead.

In the news they told the story
Of how this officer had died.
And some who listened cared less,
But those who loved him cried.

Well, they buried him in uniform
With his badge pinned on his chest.
He even had his revolver,
He died doing his best.

Written By:
David L. Bell
Sergeant
Richland County Sheriff's Department
Columbia, South Carolina
Used with Special Permission of the Author
Copyright © 1999 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

Investigator David L Bell
Richland County Sheriff's Dept., Columbia, SC

February 2, 2008

Steve is still remembered by those who work at Troop D. There are not many of us left who had the pleasure of working with him. His scrifice will not be forgotten.

The license number "D-34" has not been issued since his crash and has been retired in his memory.

Capt. Russell Haman
State Police, Troop D

January 10, 2008

I had met Steve years ago on the job. He was a good friend and a fine trooper. I still miss seeing him every day that goes by. Rest in peace Steve and we will see you again soon. John G. Doyle

POLICE OFFICER 3 JOHN G DOYLE
LA WEIGHTS & STANDARDS POLICE

September 30, 2007

I was an M.P. stationed at Ft. Polk when I had the pleasure of meeting Steve in 1982. I have been a Deputy Sheriff for 23 years now. Not a year goes by without thinking of my friendship with Steve. You had an impact on my decision to continue in law enforcement. Thanks for the time we spent together and your warm Louisiania hospitality towards a young solider from california.

Deputy
Los Angeles County Sheriff

September 18, 2006

Though it has been over 10 years since you were welcomed into God's arms, you have not been forgotten. Thank you for your service to the people of Louisiana. RIP

December 27, 2005

I was a new deputy, only two months on the job, when a trooper, newly posted to our area brought in a DWI. This was when I met Steve in early 1981. At first, like his wife has earlier stated, I could not believe someone could be so naturaly compassionate to virtually all that he met. And yet, he was the consummate police officer. I looked up to him as a experienced brother officer, virtually my best friend and the brother I never had...
It has been 10 years since he died so young and so tragically. I still miss him each and every day of my life. He was a excellent State Trooper, and simply one of the finest human beings I have ever known. He was ALWAYS trying to make someone's day brighter and would help anyone in any way he could. Many people did not know what to make of someone so strong yet kind. Few made the mistake of taking his kindness for weakness for that was NOT the case.

During his career he was a top DWI enforcer, and a medal of valor recipient for directly saving a life during a special State Capitol detail.
I took a lot of cues from him in how to handle "the job", people and life as well.

I cannot say it enough how strongly he is STILL missed, even these many years later. I speak to him every day, and only hope I will get to see him again when my time is done here. I KNOW where he is, I hope I can make it there as well. Rest well my brother, you surely made a strong mark upon so many in your short time here on earth. It is so true, the good do die young...

God Bless you in your rest.

"D"

Deputy Sheriff Dwayne E. Larriviere
Vernon Parish Sheriff's Office

November 7, 2005

I miss you big brother, after 10 years at times it still feels like yesterday, we received the news of your death.
Take care of my friend that was killed last week in Baghdad. He was a fellow cop in the state. You know I would have called to let you know about him. Oh yes, I haven't forgotten, 19 Feb. 2005, your 51st birthday.
I love you,
Sandy

January 13, 2005

I knew Steve was a special person from the first time I met him, but it took a few dates before I fully realized how kind he was. I remember once at a mall we chatted while waiting in line to pay for some small item, and Steve noticed that a child in front of us didn't have quite enough change to pay for his purchase. Without missing a beat in our conversation, almost without even noticing it, he reached into his pocket for the little oval plastic change pouch in which he always kept his change to keep it from making noise, and handed the cashier the amount the boy needed. I'll never forget the look of gratitude on that young man's face. When I mentioned that incident to him years later, Steve couldn't recall it at first, I think because it was such an automatic reaction for him to do things like that. When he finally remembered it, I asked him why he had given money to a kid who was a total stranger. I'll never forget his response. It wasn't because he was impatient, or that he was trying to impress me (even though he did!). Steve said it was just because "the poor kid was embarrassed". That is the kind of guy he was. He touched many people's lives with little kindnesses like that. And although he may have quickly forgotten about it, this is one memory I will cherish as long as I live.

Paula Gray

December 6, 2004

On 2/19/2004, Steve would have celebrated his 50th birthday. I wish that I could call him and tease him about being half a century old. Steve always told his family that he would die young and his death was premature. I miss my brother.........
Sandy

Sandy Gray Vitter

February 7, 2004