Larry Woodson

Larry Gene Woodson, 86, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025, in New Braunfels, Texas.

Born on May 19, 1939, in Mexico, Missouri, Larry was the son of Lloyd and Dorothy Woodson. He pursued higher education with dedication and purpose, graduating from the University of Missouri in 1961 with a degree in Business.

Larry shared a long and loving marriage with his wife, Mary "Kay" Woodson. He is remembered with affection by his brother Glenn (Judy) Woodson and his children: Betsy (David) McDermeit, Jeff (Robyn) Woodson, Deborah (Tim) Powers, and Patricia Rohrschneider. Larry's legacy continues through his grandchildren: Lewis Woodson, Amanda Woodson, Andrew Woodson, and Tyler McDermeit.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Donald Woodson; sister Wanda Thanos; his son Lucas Woodson; and granddaughter Mary Stella Woodson.

Larry served his country honorably in the USAF Air Defense Command 1961-1967 as an Electronic Warfare Officer in B57 aircraft, attaining the rank of Captain. His time in the military reflected his deep sense of duty and discipline—qualities that would guide him throughout his life.

He was employed by State Farm Insurance Companies as a Director In Marketing and Consumer Research in their Bloomington, IL headquarters; retiring in 1995 when he and Kay moved to the rural Marion, IL area. During his time in Bloomington, he received an MBA degree at Illinois State University and was awarded the Certificate in Data Processing designation.

During retirement he and Kay shared their quiet 30 year lifestyle on their "Gentleman's Farm" in rural Pittsburg. He was active member of Crab Orchard United Methodist Church in Marion, IL and served several years on the REDCO area economic development committee.

Larry's pet mission project was in donating blood to the Red Cross on a regular basis during the years 1961 - 2017.

His favorite quote was from his favorite movie "The Music Man" where Professor Harold Hill is wooing the procrastinating Marian the librarian, "Oh my dear little librarian. You pile up enough tomorrows, and you'll find you are left with nothing but a lot of empty yesterdays. I don't know about you, but I'd like to make today worth remembering."

Larry's life was marked by service—to his country, to his faith community, and most importantly to his family. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved him.