Larry L. Carlin

January 1, 1939 - September 29, 2025 Larry L. Carlin, 86, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and passionate advocate for social justice, Larry's life was defined by compassion, intellect and community.
Born on January 1, 1939 in Los Angeles, Larry served in the U.S. Navy while earning his B.A. in Language Arts. His career began at the Los Angeles bureau of United Press International where his talent for communication and strategic thinking led him to the defining chapter of his professional life when he joined R&B Development Company. At the forefront of a new industry, R&B pioneered the concept of fully furnished rental apartments. Over the next three decades as Senior Vice President Larry played an instrumental role in shaping the company's marketing vision as it expanded into an international presence through Oakwood Corporate Worldwide.
After retiring, Larry relocated to Sonoma County where he embraced a new chapter. He founded the North Bay Theater Group and served as a commissioner for the Sonoma County Human Rights Commission. He marched against genocide, campaigned for women's rights and lobbied Congress and the Supreme Court to legalize same-sex marriage. Driven by a passion to preserve Jewish history, he was a member of Sonoma State's Alliance for the Study of the Holocaust & Genocide. At his synagogue Larry co-chaired and revitalized the Social Action Committee, spearheading impactful initiatives such as showcasing the AIDS Memorial Quilt and fostering connections between Jewish and Muslim communities.
Larry's efforts were recognized with several awards including the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, the Friends of Rwanda, and Kaiser Permanente where he served as a Patient Advocate, touching lives with his empathy and insight.
Above all, Larry cherished his family. He shared 65 loving years with his wife, Judy, and claimed that his two finest 'achievements' were his daughters, Suzanne and Jennafer (Paul). Larry was endlessly proud of his grandsons, Asher and Finley, who remained among his greatest sources of joy. He is also survived by his sisters, Shelley (Joe) and Robin (Jerry), and numerous nieces and nephews. His legacy lives on not only in his family but also in the communities he touched.
Contributions in Larry's honor can be made to the ACLU, Planned Parenthood or NPR.