Larry McClearn Heathcott Sr.

1939 - 2025

Larry McClearn Heathcott, Sr. (85) died peacefully on February 16, 2025. Born on March 2, 1939, to Hobart Valentine Heathcott and Martha Erle McClearn Heathcott, Larry was raised in Newbern, Tennessee beside his six siblings who he remained close all the days of their lives. Larry was a standout defensive tackle at Memphis State University from 1957-1962. He received numerous football scholarship offers to several SEC colleges but chose to play for Memphis State for the sole reason his father could come see him play on the weekends. Larry received a bachelor's degree in education and a master's degree in Curriculum and Development. He also coached at Memphis State for 3 years after graduating. In 1965, He accepted a job to become a teacher of woodworking/industrial arts, which was widely known as "shop" at White Station High School. He also accepted the role as the football coach. He stayed in those roles for 40 years until his retirement in 2001. Larry was known to most as "Coach Heathcott". It was not uncommon for former students to see Larry and address him fondly as "Coach", telling him what a difference his coaching and teaching made in their lives. Honor, strength, and loyalty best describe Larry as he proudly served his country as a member of the National Guard and U.S. Air force for over ten years. Larry leaves behind his wife of 50 years, Lynn Stewart Heathcott, his only son and namesake, Larry McClearn Heathcott, Jr, and his most precious gifts his grandchildren Jack and Laura Lane Heathcott. He was preceded in death by his daughter who he has missed for 47 years, Laura Lane Heathcott, and his stepson Brian Vincent Burris. He also leaves his only surviving sister Darl Henley and brothers in law Thomas Cleveland Stewart and Scott Stewart. A service to celebrate Larry's life will be held on March 8th at Memorial Park Funeral Home 5668 Poplar Ave Memphis, Tn 38119 at 11am. The family invites friends to gather for visitation prior to the service from 10:00am until 11:00am.