News Summary
Stephen Vallrie Buras, a dedicated law enforcement officer and captain with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, passed away at 73. He served over four decades, earning respect for his integrity and leadership. Buras is remembered as a devoted family man and community servant. His contributions to law enforcement and local communities were significant, and he will be missed by many. A funeral service will be held in New Orleans to honor his legacy.
New Orleans, Louisiana – Stephen “Steve” Vallrie Buras, a respected captain with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2025, at the age of 73. His death marks the loss of a dedicated public servant who devoted over four decades to law enforcement and left a lasting impact on his community.
Born on December 26, 1951, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Buras was a lifelong resident of the Greater New Orleans area, notably spending 50 years in Kenner. He is survived by his wife, Ann, to whom he was married for 51 years, and two children, Alicia (married to Jason) and Jeffrey “Jeff” (married to Kim). Steve was also a proud grandfather, affectionately known as Paw Paw, to his grandchildren Reid and Kai Buras. He had three siblings: Valerie, David, and Michael, along with chosen siblings Patsy and Barry.
Buras had a distinguished career in law enforcement, serving honorably for 46 years with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. He rose through the ranks to retire as Captain and Commander of the Homicide Division. Following his full-time retirement, he returned for an additional five years as a Detective for the Criminal Intelligence Center (CIC). Throughout his career, Buras was known for his unwavering integrity, leadership qualities, and compassion, earning him the respect of his colleagues and the community at large.
Professional Achievements
Steve’s commitment to professional development led him to attend the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, where he graduated from Session 177. He remained actively involved with the FBI Academy Associates and was a long-term member of the International Homicide Investigators Association (IHIA). During his term as the Southern Regional Director and President from 2006 to 2008, Buras played a pivotal role in organizing the IHIA Symposium in New Orleans in 2006, shortly after Hurricane Katrina.
Personal Life and Interests
While Steve was deeply dedicated to his career, he was also a devoted family man, known for his big heart, quick wit, and humor. He enjoyed various recreational activities, including hunting and golfing, and was an avid fan of his favorite sports teams. His friends, family, and colleagues remember him as selfless and loyal, someone who was committed to protecting those he loved.
Funeral Arrangements
Friends, family, and colleagues are invited to attend his funeral service on Saturday, September 27, 2025. The service will be held at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home in New Orleans, with visitation taking place from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The Mass will begin at 12:00 PM, followed by interment at Metairie Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Heart Association, the American Diabetes Association, masses to St. Philip Neri Church, or a charity of choice.
Legacy
Steve Buras’s legacy is one of service, laughter, and love, which will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His contributions to law enforcement and the community have left a significant mark, ensuring that his memory and dedication will not be forgotten.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Orleans Mourns the Loss of Lieutenant Anthony Monaco Jr.
Civil Rights Complaint Alleges Abuse at ICE Center in Louisiana
New Orleans Police Investigate Homicide After Shooting
Seven Inmates Still on the Run After Orleans Parish Jailbreak
Fugitive Arrested After Decade-Long Evasion in New Orleans
Multiple Shooting Incidents Under Investigation in New Orleans
New Orleans Man Arrested for Deadly Avondale Shooting
Seven Inmates Escape from Orleans Justice Center
New Orleans Faces Surge in Violent Incidents
Inmate Captured After Mistaken Release Sparks Outcry
Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Stephen Buras Obituary
- Google Search: Stephen Buras
- Legacy.com: Anna Buras Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituaries
- NOLA.com: East Jefferson Property Transfers
- Google News: New Orleans Property Transfers
- Dignity Memorial: Merrill Thiele Obituary
- Google Scholar: New Orleans Law Enforcement
- NOLA.com: St. Tammany Property Transfers
- Wikipedia: New Orleans
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
