Birth date: Jun 18, 1939 Death date: Jul 4, 2020
Ret. Police Chief William G Hegarty 1939-2020 The heavens opened to welcome a hero. At 4:12 AM, July 4, 2020, William George Hegarty, age 81, earned independence from this earthly life, after a recent fall. He was born June 18, Read Obituary
My sincere heartfelt and deepest condolences to the family of one of the greatest leaders in Law Enforcement history. "The Chief" as I have always called him help to shape my professional career and life. He always found the time to ask about or families, or personal goals and career paths. He had a deep commitment to change not only for the community but also for the children within the community. Although very firm, his smile, would light up the room and the elder citizens and children felt very at peace when he was around. The Chief knew how to take back a neighborhood, and although not the author of community policing, he mastered it well. I was blessed to work with him after his retirement and to help research his book "Smart and Violent Children" which I still reference today. The Chief developed leaders, and many are in those positions today, helping to shape law enforcement in West Michigan and beyond. The Chief will be missed but never forgotten, Peace be with you my friend the heavens are safer as "The Chief as arrived......Love and peace to the family. Larry and Christina Johnson
My deepest condolences to the family of one Grand Rapids "Great" Chief H. One of my never forgotten memory, was a time as acting volunteer of The Neighborhood Service Center on Franklin and Eastern, one of the most challenging neighborhoods in Grand Rapids. "Chief H", walked the streets of Franklin and Eastern to Franklin and Neland, as he actively listened to concerns from the residents in the neighborhood. They shared with him they're heart. What they shared wasn't all good, but he "Chief" listened, and that met so much to the community.It was definitely a highlight of the Neighborhood. Thanks "Chief H"for showing a Human Heart in a difficult Career. JOB WELL DONE! Rest on Chief H.
Sincerest condolences to Terri and your lovely family. My heart breaks for your loss.
Annette Guilfoyle
Terri,
My sincere heartfelt condolences and prayers to you and your family. I have come to know for certain that there are no coincidences in this life and everything happens for a reason. Chief Hegarty had been in my thoughts within a week of the news of his passing. During that time, I pondered and searched about his life... I discovered that his legacy and commitment to change things for the better, along with the influence and passionate heart that he exhibited while professionally serving and leading our department, particularly, "the girl in the yellow dress", was still impacting our community. So, yes, I was quite surprised when I was notified that he was now resting. His humanity was best recognized through his smile. The Chief exemplified the necessity to act and not be acted upon and that accomplishing what seemed to be imposible was, in fact, possible. Otherwise meaning that we always have the choice to follow our convictions and be doers to make positive change for the better; everything in its time. Although the heavens have opened to welcome one of our heroes, his spirit will live on. My mom and I wish you, blessings, love, and peace.
😇❤️🙏🏼
Tammy Holt
Our hearts go out to you Terri. Becky and I pray for you during this difficult time of loss, knowing God will give you the strength and comfort you and your family need.
Steve and Becky Karnes
Terri and Family; You have so many wonderful memories of Bill that will help lift your Spirits. My prayers for Strength and Comfort for you all. I smile thinking of Bill wearing his Happy Socks. Love to you all.
Our condolences to Terri and family. Prayers for you and the Chief.
Terri -
We extend our most sincere condolences on your loss. With Chief Hegarty’s leadership and professionalism, the GRPD was truly an organization that commanded respect. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jacquelyn and Jules Bush
Condolences to you, Terri, and your whole family. You and Bill hold a special place in my heart, especially Bill. He was a terrific mentor, a great boss, and an honorable man. I cried uncontrollably at the news of his death. I am so sorry for your loss. Bill's legacy lives on in all of us from GRPD and all the people he helped personally and professionally. It was an honor to serve with him. May you and your family find peace.
With love and admiration, Dan.
Dan & Theresa Mills
