WORCESTER—Gary J. Gemme, who served as Worcester’s police chief for more than a decade and was the city’s longest-serving chief since World War II, died Wednesday, Aug. 6, at his home in Shrewsbury. He was 71.
Gemme spent nearly 33 years with the Worcester Police Department, rising through the ranks before being appointed chief in 2004. He retired in 2016.
In a public statement, Worcester Police Chief Paul Saucier said, “Gary Gemme was a dedicated public servant who committed his life to the City of Worcester and its citizens. His contributions will never be forgotten.”
Mayor Joseph Petty, in a statement posted to social media, praised Gemme’s role in modernizing the department and launching key programs like the Summer Impact initiative and Community Impact Division.
City Councilor At-Large Kate Toomey, who knew Gemme both professionally and personally, also shared condolences. “I wish to express my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of former Chief of Police Gary Gemme, and to the Worcester Police Department,” Toomey said in a written statement. “I had the privilege of working with Gary as a City Councilor, and knew his lovely wife, Donna, and children as neighbors.”
Toomey called him “a consummate professional and the epitome of a public servant,” and added that Gemme was especially proud of his work with Community Policing and the Summer Impact program. “Gary gave 33 years of his life, his professionalism and vision to our city,” she said. “He will truly be missed.”
Gemme, a U.S. Navy veteran and graduate of the FBI National Academy, was known for guiding the department through a time of technological change and focusing on public engagement. He was sworn in as chief in 2005 after serving as acting chief the prior year.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel on Plantation Street.
