Larry Gene McCrady

Larry Gene McCrady, born on August 18, 1949 in Barberton, Ohio, to Mabel McCrady and the late Holly McCrady, passed away at age 69 on October 31, 2018 at his home in Phoenix, Arizona. He fought a courageous and difficult battle with pancreatic cancer. Larry served in the Army in the Vietnam War and was retired after a long career in clinical engineering. After his retirement, he enjoyed working with psychiatric patients, driving the shuttle to and from their appointments. With his genuine personality, he was able to connect with these patients making them feel safe and respected.

Larry was the loving husband and best friend of Evlyn McCrady. He is survived by his daughter, Michelle Williams (Sterling); son, Brandon McCrady; Evlyn’s children Julia and Paul Judson; brother, Jim McCrady (Janice); and grandchildren, Sterling Williams Jr, Chase Williams, and Justice Williams. Larry loved to write and tell stories. He had several stories published in local newspapers over the years and was working on writing a book at the time of his death. He also enjoyed photography and was never without his camera. Most of the photos in his home of his own creation. His love of all types of music was passed down to his grandsons who are all passionate about music and self-taught musicians. Larry was a “tinkerer” and was always working on something. Whether it be in his backyard, or in his garage, he would have KXCI playing on one of the many old radios from his collection. He loved to spend weekends with Evlyn, going to estate sales, antique shops, and yard sales, and usually scored some neat items. He had an eye for rare and unique things.

Larry couldn’t go anywhere without running into someone he knew. From Bisbee, AZ to La Jolla, CA to Ripley, W.VA. He loved people. He loved to talk to people, often striking up a conversation with random strangers, then leaving them as friends. He had a warm, genuine heart and a personality larger than life. In addition to the family that he has left behind, he will be missed by many friends and former co-workers.

A Veteran Memorial Ceremony for Larry McCrady will be held on Friday November 30, 2018 at 12:00 p.m. at the Arizona Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Marana. There will be a celebration of life to follow at the VFW Post 5990, also located in Marana. All are welcome to reminisce, share stories, and enjoy the company of those who were a part of Larry's life.