Lawrence James Henbest

Larry was born in Rockford, Illinois, the eighth of fourteen children born to William and Ruth Henbest. While his childhood was not always easy, the stories of his upbringing were legendary in the family.

In the early 1960s, his future wife, Barbara, began attending Rockford College, and fate brought the two together. They were never again separated, happily married for more than 61 years.

They moved to Toms River, New Jersey, in 1970 with two young sons. Two more were born to them while there, and they settled in to raise their four sons in the community. After retirement from Dover Township in the late 1990s, Larry and Barbara moved to Florida, living there for about 20 years. As much as Larry loved the sunshine, the pull of family brought them back to New Jersey a few years ago. Larry’s children and grandchildren were a source of pride and joy throughout his life.

Larry was involved as a citizen and parent. He was a member of the Toms River First Aid Squad, a Scout leader at several levels, a member and Deacon at the Presbyterian Church of Toms River, a member of the Brandon (FL) Elks, and involved with too many organizations to recount. His efforts to serve his community and his family were a boon to so many organizations and benefited countless people.

In addition to the time he spent working, raising his family, and serving his community, he enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and friends. He enjoyed playing golf and bowling.

Larry is survived by his loving wife, Barbara; sons, Jon (Christine), Joe (Laura), and Jason (Jaimee); daughter-in-law, Sherry; grandchildren, Ethan (Stephanie), Aidan, Alex, and Hugo; great grandson, Benjamin; siblings, Barb, Kay, Dave (Sergio), Cheryl, and Tom; and brother-in-law, Al (Nan). He was predeceased by his son, Jim; his parents; his in-laws, Al and Thelma; and siblings, Pat, Bill Jr., Chuck, John, Ron, Bob, Mike, and Steve.

Larry is much loved and sorely missed by those closest to him. The hole in our hearts is as large as his personality.

A Memorial Service and Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Presbyterian Church of Toms River, 1070 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, NJ 08753.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey, https://caregivervolunteers.org/giving/.