Larry L. Smith Sr.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Larry L. Smith, Sr., who went to be with the Lord on Monday, October 7th, 2024, just shy of his 89th birthday. Born on October 13, 1935, in Newport, NC, Larry lived a life of service, love, and dedication.

A proud Vietnam Veteran, Larry served his country with honor, both in the United States Army, where he was part of the 11th Airborne Division and later in the United States Air Force. Larry often shared stories of his early days in the military, where he humorously noted that he jumped out of the first 30 airplanes he ever flew in, only landing in one for the first time when he returned home from Germany. His service and patriotism were constants throughout his life, and many will remember him as the man who trained for marathons, running 10-15 miles a day, while proudly carrying the American flag as a demonstration of his patriotism during Desert Storm.

Larry’s love of sports and the community was evident to all who knew him. He was a beloved coach for Babe Ruth Baseball in Newport and took great pride in being the caretaker of Smith Park, where he shared his knowledge, energy, and enthusiasm for the game with generations of young athletes. Watching his grandchildren play baseball, basketball, and softball was one of his greatest joys. He and his wife Myrna served on the board of directors for the Babe Ruth Baseball League, Newport Pig Cookin’ and supported many civic organizations including St. James United Methodist Church of Newport where they were married in 1958.

The greatest love of Larry’s life was his wife, Myrna, with whom he shared 64 wonderful years before her passing just last year. Together, they built a loving family that extended far beyond their children and into the lives of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The family is at peace knowing that they are both together again.

Larry is survived by his children: Myrna Smith (Tony) of Elkin, NC, Larry Smith, Jr. of Newport, NC, Janet Smith (Buddy) of Newport, NC, and Becky Chisenhall (Tommie) also of Newport, NC. He leaves behind a legacy carried on by his grandchildren, Amanda Wolcott (Jeremy) of Powells Point, NC, Jamie Bowman (Matthew) of Granite Falls, NC, Tommie Chisenhall, Jr. (Jessica) of Newport, NC, Larry Smith, III of Newport News, VA, Erin Langley (Jeff) of Newport, NC, Lonnie Chisenhall (Meredith) of Morehead City, NC, and Joshua Chisenhall (Olivia) of Newport, NC. His legacy is further celebrated by his 12 great-grandchildren, beloved nephews and nieces, and many close friends.

In addition to his wife, Larry was also preceded in death by his mother, Lina “Lizzie” M. Smith; father, James Steven Smith; his siblings, Minnie Thrower, Louise Williams, and James “Billy” Smith; as well as his granddaughters, Elizabeth Garner and Annie Chisenhall Edwards.

Larry was a proud American, a dedicated family man, and a pillar of his community. His love for his country, family, and community touched many lives, and his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A graveside service will be held at 11 AM, Friday, October 11th at Cedar Grove Cemetery in Newport, officiated by Rev. Joseph Park. The family will visit with family and friends at the conclusion of the service. For those unable to attend, the service will be available for viewing through his obituary page on Munden Funeral Home’s website.  The service will remain on the Funeral Home website for 90 days.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Newport Babe Ruth League, 168 Danny Garner Road, Newport, NC 28570.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.