Larry Taylor, a hard-working and resilient man, passed away on November 7, 2025, at the age of 79. Born on November 4, 1946, Larry's life was marked by dedication to his family, his work, and his country.
Larry was one of thirteen children and began working at an early age to help provide for his family. He was a successful Tug boat Captain on the intercoastal waterways for Kirby Inland Marine. A proud veteran, Larry served his country in the US Army during the Vietnam War, earning the National Defense Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, and the Marksman medal with the M-14 Rifle.
Larry was married to Barbara, and together they had three children. A loving father and devoted family man, Larry raised his grandchildren, placing family above all else. Growing up with very little, providing for his family was always his top priority. Barbara always knew that Larry would take care of his family, no matter what.
In his personal time, Larry loved to fish and, as odd as it may sound, he loved to work hard. He was a man of true grit, often feeling a little lost in retirement because working hard was so ingrained in him. Larry would often declare, "I am always right" and "I am the damn man," confidently letting everyone know he was the man to get the job done.
Larry's last words were words of comfort to Barbara, putting her first even in his final moments. He shared a special bond with his cat, Percy, who loved him dearly. Larry had a fondness for Fanta Orange drink, cornbread, and especially a big helping of Lima Beans with a fresh biscuit, lovingly prepared by Barbara for one of his final meals. He cherished Christmas and the 4th of July, valuing the true meaning of each.
Larry is preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Hattie Pritchett Taylor, his son Larry Dwaine Taylor, his daughter April Lynn Sharritt, his brothers Leon, Roy, and Jimmy Taylor, and his sisters Nan Presley and Margaret Colbert.
He is survived by his wife Barbara Taylor, his daughter January Parmelly (Kirk), his brothers Dwaine Taylor (Betty), James Taylor, Richard Taylor (Rene), and Terry Taylor (Mary), his sisters Elizabeth Chandler (Jim), Delila Haire (Henry), and Debbie Sue King, and his grandchildren Jacob Taylor, Sarah Lynn Skillen, Maggie Sharritt, and Zane Taylor, along with many nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved dearly.
Larry Taylor was truly cut from a different cloth; they just don't make them like him anymore. He will be truly missed by all that knew him.
A memorial service will be held at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home,1304 N Cleveland St Dayton, TX 77535, on Saturday December 6th at 10 am. Glen Bowman will be the officiant.
