Larry R. DeLong

Mr. Larry R. DeLong, age 80, was called to heaven on April 12, 2022. He passed away peacefully with family members at his side in San Antonio, Texas. Larry was preceded in death by his loving wife of 49 years, Kathleen (Nugent) DeLong (2017), his stepson, Duane Anthony Head (2013), and his granddaughter Kelly Head.

Larry is survived by his stepson Dale James Head, his stepdaughter Caron Suzanne Kiley and his daughter, Jennifer Ruth Orlando. He is also survived by two grandchildren: Veronica Nicole Kiley and Arden Orlando, and his great granddaughter, Kylie Danielle Swain. The legacy of Larrys thoughtful and kind spirit, love of family, humor and zest for life will continue to guide and live through them.

Larry grew up in Upper Arlington, a suburb of Columbus, Ohio, and was the son of Ralph Arthur DeLong and Ida Mae Simkins. Larry was united in marriage to the love of his life, Kathleen Bernadette Nugent on November 15, 1968, in Columbus, Ohio. Together they began a military life of travel and adventure as they traveled the world while raising four children.

A Viet Nam veteran, Larry received the following decorations for his service: the Viet Nam Service Medal with three devices, the Republic of Viet Nam Campaign Medal, the Republic of Viet Nam Gallantry Cross with device. Larry retired from the United States Air Force on December 1st, 1989, after honorably serving 28 years and 28 days.

Larry continued his service with the military as a civilian working at Joint Base San Antonio Fort Sam Houston as a Training Specialist at the premier Army medicine training and education institution widely known as the "Army Medical Department Center & School".

In retirement, Larry loved to stay active by playing golf, enjoying time with family & friends, shooting at the local firing range, and taking meticulous care of his yard and gardens. Larry had an unwavering love for his wife, and his children remember him as a loving father who supported their dreams and goals. Larry always placed the needs of his family before his own, he was loved and will be missed greatly.

There will be a graveside service celebrating his life scheduled for Monday, May 9, 2022 at 10:30 AM at the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio, Texas. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Larrys life. The family would like to thank the caregivers at the Avalon Memory Care for their care and dedication. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his name to your favorite charity or the Alzheimers Foundation of America (AFA).