The memory of Weatherford’s favorite son, Larry Hagman, was immortalized on Sunday, Sept. 21, 2015, when a statue of the late actor was unveiled at the Doss Heritage and Culture Center.

Larry’s daughter, Kristina and son Preston, his sister, Heller and niece Dana Hagman pulled the cover from the full-length bronze statue.

Talk of honoring Larry’s memory began with a group of citizens as they returned from his funeral nearly two years ago, including our own board member Sherry Watters. Two committees were formed to address questions including where the statue would be located and what would be necessary to have it built. The Larry Hagman Memorial Committee and the Civic Development Board both worked to make the statue a reality.

Organizers decided that the statue would be located at the Doss Center and Warner Brothers approved the use of a photo of Larry to be used for the statue. During the ceremony, family members and special guests spoke about the effort it took to take the concept of the statue and make it a reality. Several thanked those who had contributed funds to have the statue built.

Retired U.S. Congressman Jim Wright also spoke, recalling how the actor hated cigarette smoke. “He wanted everyone to quit smoking. If someone had a cigarette, he would reach into his pocket and pull a fan out, and point it at the smoker,” said Wright with a chuckle.