Larry Carver Collins

Larry's early life in Glendale took a poignant turn with the passing of his father, Harold D. Carver, when he was just four. Later, his mother, Viola Vold, remarried William Collins, a man of faith who became an influential figure in Larry's life. It was during his youth, attending a Presbyterian church, that Larry embraced Jesus Christ. The family's move to Compton led him to work at Royal Typewriters, the same company where his stepfather was employed.

A graduate of Compton High, Larry pursued his passion for engineering at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. He soon met Sherry, the love of his life, and they married shortly after. Their adventure continued as Larry served his country as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy, with a highlight as the dispersing and supply officer on the U.S.S. Eugene A. Greene DD-711. His commitment extended to thirty years in the Naval Reserves, where he valued his work with the Marine Corps construction battalion, ultimately retiring as a Commander.

Larry's professional life in the civilian world led his family across several states, working in the paper/pulp industry before his position at Convair/General Dynamics in San Diego, where he contributed to the design of the Tomahawk cruise missile launching apparatus. Even after retirement, his strong work ethic drew him back to San Onofre Nuclear Power Plant as a security officer, a position he felt blessed to maintain.

An avid outdoorsman, Larry cherished his years of deer and elk hunting, hiking, and sharing his knowledge through survival skills and gun safety classes.

In 1977, Larry and Sherry found their lasting home and cherished church family at Bethel Baptist Church in Escondido. There, he served as a dedicated deacon and enjoyed co-teaching Sunday School to middle school boys. He was especially proud to witness the baptisms of his granddaughters, Audrey and Gretchen.

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” - Ephesians 2:8-9

A committal service for Larry will be held Tuesday, May 6, 2025 from 2:15 PM to 3:00 PM at Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Dr, San Diego, CA 92122.