- Name: Buford Hayse Pusser
- Occupation: Former Sheriff, Law Enforcement Officer
- Date of Birth: December 12, 1937
- Place of Birth: Finger, Tennessee, USA
- Nationality: American
- Parents: Carl and Helen Pusser
- Spouse: Pauline Pusser
- Children: Dwana Pusser, Mike Pusser
- Net Worth (2024): Estimated at $1 million
- Source of Wealth: Law enforcement career, book and movie royalties
- Ethnicity: Caucasian
- Height: 6 feet 6 inches
- Weight: 250 lbs
- Notable Works: Portrayed in the film "Walking Tall" and book "The Twelfth of August"
Early Life and Education:
Buford Hayse Pusser was born on December 12, 1937, in Finger, Tennessee, to Carl and Helen Pusser. Growing up in a rural community, Pusser learned the values of hard work, integrity, and justice from a young age. He attended local schools and developed a strong sense of duty towards his community.
Career Beginning:
Pusser’s law enforcement career began when he joined the McNairy County Sheriff’s Office in Tennessee. His dedication and commitment to upholding the law quickly earned him a reputation as a no-nonsense sheriff who was unafraid to take on organized crime and corruption in his county.
Breakthrough and Career Achievements:
Buford Pusser’s breakthrough came when he was elected Sheriff of McNairy County in 1964. Known for his towering stature and unwavering determination, Pusser became a symbol of justice as he waged a relentless war against the criminal elements plaguing his community. His most famous confrontation was with the State Line Mob, a ruthless criminal organization involved in bootlegging, gambling, and other illegal activities.
Pusser’s fearless pursuit of justice and his dramatic battles with organized crime were immortalized in the 1973 film "Walking Tall," which portrayed his real-life exploits. His autobiography, "The Twelfth of August," further cemented his legacy as a legendary lawman.
Financial Insights:
Despite his modest beginnings, Buford Pusser’s legacy and story have continued to generate income even after his untimely death in 1974. As of 2024, his estate is estimated to be worth around $1 million, largely derived from royalties from his book and the "Walking Tall" movie franchise. Additionally, his memorabilia and merchandise sales contribute to his ongoing financial success.
Buford Pusser’s enduring popularity and the timeless appeal of his story have ensured a steady stream of income for his family, keeping his legacy alive for generations to come.
Conclusion:
Buford Pusser’s life and career exemplify the power of one individual’s unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness. His fearless pursuit of law and order in the face of overwhelming odds has inspired countless individuals and continues to captivate audiences through books and films. Buford Pusser’s legacy as the "Walking Tall" sheriff lives on as a testament to the enduring power of courage and integrity in the face of adversity.