Birmingham Mourns the Passing of Pioneering Police Officer Leroy Stover at Age 90

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Leroy Stover, a trailblazing figure in law enforcement as Birmingham’s first African American police officer, has passed away at the age of 90.

The Birmingham Police Department announced the solemn news of Stover’s passing on the platform X, the new name for what was once called Twitter.

“With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of former Deputy Chief Leroy Stover. Deputy Chief Stover was a groundbreaking figure, becoming the first African American to join the ranks of the Birmingham police, and his significant contributions have laid the groundwork for future generations to follow,” the department expressed in their announcement.

According to a report from al.com, Stover passed away on Thursday. He was 90 years old at the time of his death. The police department has not disclosed the cause of his death, and the details of his memorial service are currently being arranged.

Stover embarked on his distinguished career with the Birmingham police in March 1966 when he was 33 years old, eventually ascending to the position of deputy chief. He concluded his commendable 32-year tenure upon his retirement in 1998, as various news sources noted.

The department extended their heartfelt sympathies, stating, “Our deepest condolences go to his family. Deputy Chief Stover’s memory will eternally be cherished in our collective memory and hearts.”

Reflecting on his years of service in 2021, Stover imparted wisdom that had guided his career, as remembered by the Birmingham Police Department: “You live right, you treat people right, right will follow you.”

A native of Dallas County, Stover was esteemed as the valedictorian of the 1952 graduating class of Shiloh High School in Selma. His military service began in the U.S. Army, where he served as a paratrooper in the renowned 82nd Airborne Division. During the final year of the Korean War, between 1952 and 1953, he served with the 187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team, as reported by the news outlet.

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More about Leroy Stover Obituary

• Birmingham Police Department Statement
• Leroy Stover’s Career Retrospective
• Obituary for Leroy Stover
• History of African American Police Officers
• 82nd and 187th Airborne Divisions