Larry Phillip Smith

Larry Phillip Smith, 84, of Fernandina Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2025, at home surrounded by his loving family. Born on March 14, 1941, Larry lived a life marked by faith, family, and service. A lifelong member of the Church of Christ, he was baptized in 1953 and served the Lord faithfully, including service as an Elder of the Church of Christ.  He was deeply committed to worship, always leading congregational singing with care and intention.

Larry married his beloved wife, Virginia Lenore LeMasters, on June 17, 1960. They met at a grade-school 4-H camp in West Virginia, where they “grew up together” and “figured out life together.” They built a strong family and shared 65 years of loving marriage.

Larry dedicated nearly 40 years to Union Carbide, where he worked his way up through the ranks to become a Department Head. His career reflected his strong work ethic, leadership, and commitment to excellence. Even after retiring, Larry’s desire to stay active and engaged never waned—he found joy in continuing to work at an auto dealership in Sisterville, West Virginia, where he valued the camaraderie and connection with people. His approach to work mirrored his life: humble, diligent, and always focused on serving others.

He was always active with his children and grandchildren, encouraging interests from baseball, football, band, soccer, basketball, and music. He admired those who attended preaching school and dedicated his life to supporting young men in that calling. His favorite scripture was 2 Timothy 2:15 (KJV):
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

Larry is survived by his wife, Lenore; his children Steve Smith, Brent Smith, Cammie Foresha (Michael); and was preceded in death by his son Timothy Smith, (surviving wife Rachel). He leaves behind 10 grandchildren—Jeremiah (Katy), Mandi (Lance), Brandon (Amber), William (Bekah), Vanessa Renee (RJ), Rebecca (Connor), Samuel (Lexie), Daniel (Kensie), Michaela, Mackenzie (John)—and 9 great-grandchildren, with one more on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ocie Cramer Smith and Doris Smith, his sister Nola Smith (Cato), and brothers Richard Smith (Barbara) and Roger Smith, (surviving wife Janet).

Larry’s legacy is one of faith, love, and devotion. This past summer, all nine of his great-grandchildren attended church camp, continuing the spiritual heritage he cherished. Despite a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s, cancer, and heart disease, Larry remained at home for nearly three years, cared for by his devoted wife and tremendous family/friend support system.

He will be remembered for his calm presence, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to God’s word. As well as his quick wit and the twinkle in his eyes as he delighted in using gentle humor and a well-placed turn of phrase to surprise and amuse those around him. His life was a testament to grace, purpose, and love—a true example for all who knew him.

Funeral Services will be at Green Pine Funeral Home in Yulee, FL on Sunday November 2, 2025.  Visitation will be at 2:00 PM, and the funeral will follow immediately at 3:00 PM. Interment Will follow in Green Pine Cemetery.