Lawrence "Larry" Frederick McKellips Jr.

Lawrence Frederick McKellips Jr., known to most as Larry, 81, of Little Rock passed away May 8, 2025. He was born March 19, 1944 in Little Rock to the late Lawrence Sr. and Vera (Ernestine) McKellips. In addition to his parents, Larry was welcomed into Heaven by his daughter, Deborah; sister, Betty Penrod; and nephews, Donovan Briley and Michael Neal. He is now reunited with them in eternal peace.

A proud member of the Western Cherokee Nation of Arkansas and Missouri, Larry embraced his heritage by actively participating in POW WOWs across the country. He also dedicated many years of service and leadership to organizations including the IBEW Local 295, where he was a master member; the Scimitar Shrine Temple (Scat Tracker Unit and Bowling League); and as a past Worshipful Master of the Trinity Lodge, Western Star Lodge #2, and Roland Lodge #508. Larry was also an enthusiastic member of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association. He truly enjoyed motorcycles, and passed that love onto his Sons, Lance, and John.

Known for his generous spirit, Larry loved playing the role of Secret Santa, spreading joy at family gatherings and local department stores. In his younger days, he coached a little league team at the Highway 10 Community Center, sponsored by McKellips Ornamental Concrete, and shared a passion for car racing with his son, Lance, competing at Speedways around the region and Central Arkansas Speedway.

Professionally, Larry was a man of many talents. He co-owned the McKellips Fireworks Stand that operated at Katillus Road on Highway 10, worked as a long-haul truck driver, and was a highly skilled Master Electrician for the railroad as well as for McKellips and Cantrell Electric.

Larry was known for his sociable nature, warm presence, and sense of humor—he was a true jokester who brought laughter to those around him. He will be missed by all who were blessed to have known him.

Those left to cherish the memories of Larry include his wife of 58 years, Virginia McKellips; sons, Lance (Beth) and John (Theresa) McKellips Sr.; grandchildren, John Jr., Bradley, Dottie, Victoria, Erin, Ivey, Jack, Zach, Aaron and Ashlyn; 8 great-grandchildren; sister, Judy Smith; and several loving nephews, nieces, cousins, and extended family and friends.

Funeral services will be 1:30 p.m., Thursday, May 15, 2025 at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills Funeral Home. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Larry will be laid to rest following the service at Elmlawn Cemetery in Little Rock.