Larry Leroy Wilson

ANTHEM, AZ – Larry Leroy Wilson, a man whose life was defined by discipline, coaching excellence, and a profound devotion to his family, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026, at the age of 84, surrounded by his loved ones.

Roots and Education

Born on April 23, 1941, in Louisa, Kentucky, to John and Nannie Wilson, Larry’s journey took him to Westerville, Ohio, at age nine. There, he was raised by his mother and stepfather, George McDonald. A standout athlete, Larry graduated from Westerville High School and earned a football scholarship to Otterbein College. His passion for learning and leadership led him to earn a Bachelor of Science and later a Master’s Degree from The Ohio State University.

A Legacy on the Hardwood

To many in the state of Ohio, Larry was "Coach." He was a titan of high school basketball, most notably at Massillon/Perry High School. Under his disciplined guidance, the Panthers achieved numerous league and sectional titles, a district championship, a regional championship, and a historic trip to the State Final Four.

His winning tradition began long before Perry, as he led programs at Westfall and Fairless High Schools to league and district titles. Ever the pioneer, Larry also established the girls' basketball program at Fairless. Larry also had coaching stints at Whitehall & Lucas High Schools. His influence extended into the summers through the Century Cage Camp, which he co-founded with friend John Ruyan, and through his active leadership in the Ohio High School Basketball Coaches Association. Larry didn't just coach a game; he coached character, treasuring the lifelong bonds he formed with players, staff, and fellow educators.

A Life of Faith and Family

Off the court, Larry’s greatest victory was his 58-year marriage to the love of his life, Mary Claire Short, whom he wed on July 15, 1967. Together, they built a life centered on faith as members of St. Rose and Cross of Christ churches.

The Wilson family home was a place of constant motion and joy. Whether it was the spray of the water at Tappan Lake, the sun-drenched shores of Naples, Florida, or quiet afternoons with his grandchildren, Larry was happiest when his family was near.

Survivors and Remembrance

Larry is survived by his devoted wife, Mary Claire; his three sons, Ralph "Rick" (Amy) of Arizona, Robert (Traci) of Ohio, and Anton "Tony" of North Carolina; and his sister, Wanda (Donnie). He leaves behind a legacy through his grandchildren: Danielle Hannah Browning (Kyle), Nicholas, Noel, Landon, Grayson, and Rhytan; and step-granddaughter Kaitlin Ellebruch. He is also survived by sisters-in-law Avis Wilson and Ann Short, and a large circle of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Nannie McDonald; his brother, John; and sisters Jewel, Gladys, Jeannie, and Matie Jane.

Services

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 19, 2026 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at Defenbaugh Wise Schoedinger Funeral Home, 151 E. Main St, Circleville, OH 43113. A Memorial Service will be held the following day on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 11:00am with Father Ramon Owera officiating at Defenbaugh Wise Schoedinger Funeral Home. Please join us as the many friends, former players, and students whose lives were forever changed by Coach Wilson’s whistle and wisdom will be celebrated. Larry will be laid to rest at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Circleville, Ohio.