Colonel Larry Gordon James USAF (Ret.)

January 16, 1936 – June 26, 2025

Larry Gordon James was born on January 16, 1936, in Mattoon, Illinois, to Emily and Howard James. After graduating from Mattoon High School and Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, he joined the United States Air Force, where he served with distinction for 22 years. He retired in 1980 as a full Colonel.

Much of Larry’s military service was as a helicopter pilot and instructor. He especially cherished the five years he spent at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska. Over the course of his long and decorated career, Larry received numerous honors, including the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Air Medal. In the final five years of his service, he led Air Force Reserve recruiting for the eastern United States at Dobbins Air Reserve Base. It was during this time that he met and married his second wife, Lynne Gaffney.

Larry holds the distinction of being the only pilot on record to successfully land a helicopter with no fore or aft controls, with all aboard surviving without injury—a testament to his exceptional skill and calm under pressure.

After his military retirement, Larry and Lynne began a new chapter in real estate as the dynamic duo “Spouses Selling Houses.” They enjoyed many successful years working side by side, building lasting friendships with clients and colleagues alike.

Following their retirement from real estate, Larry continued to serve—this time dedicating himself to his former church and his neighborhood. He leaves behind a legacy of quiet kindness, generosity, and an unforgettable laugh that brought joy to everyone around him. As one dear friend put it, “Larry is the real deal.” And he truly was.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Lynne; his cherished children, Jeffrey James (Michelle), Jerry James (Michelle), John Gaffney (Kristi), and Andrew Gaffney (Kirstin); and grandchildren Macen James, Grant, Ian, Taylor, and Will Gaffney, and his devoted caregiver, Kristy Sorenson, and his faithful four-legged companion, Sugar.

The family kindly requests no flowers. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project or a charity of your choice.

A visitation will be held at Sandy Springs Chapel on July 8, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Officiated by Reverend Chris Barbieri. A reception will follow the service, and all are invited to attend.

Larry will be laid to rest in Cullman, Alabama, at a later date.

The James family extends their heartfelt thanks to Amedisys Hospice for the exceptional care, kindness, and compassion shown during the final weeks of his life. Your support brought comfort and peace during a difficult time, and we are deeply grateful.