Luther Lawrence Winchester

Luther Lawrence Winchester obituary, Astor, FL

Luther Lawrence Winchester

Luther Winchester Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on May 25, 2025.
In loving memory of Luther Lawrence Winchester, 84, who passed away peacefully in Astor, Florida, on May 14, 2025.

Luther was born on December 15, 1940, in Albany, New York, the son of Luther and Nonie Winchester. He married Joan Elizabeth Logue on July 19, 1964, and together they shared many years of love.

After a period working in the family printing business, Luther enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served as a dog handler in the Military Police, with duty at Dyess Air Force Base in Abilene, Texas. He was recalled to duty during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Following his military service, he joined the New York State Conservation Department, working at Thacher Park. He later began a long and distinguished career with the Town of Colonie Police Department, retiring as a lieutenant after 30 years of service.

Luther, also known as Larry, was a knowledgeable and passionate enthusiast with a wide range of interests, especially motorcycles and firearms. He was actively involved in numerous clubs and organizations, where he generously shared his knowledge, taught others, and advocated for safety. He helped establish the Colonie Police Motorcycle Unit and was instrumental in creating a Motorcycle Safety Foundation riding school in Colonie.

He had a lifelong love of the outdoors-particularly fishing, hunting, camping, and birdwatching. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends in the Adirondacks, the Green Mountains, Long Island, and Cape Cod. In his later years, he found peace at "Hector's Perch," a quiet spot in the floodplain of the St. Johns River, where he fed the birds, toured the river by boat, and welcomed family and friends.

His voicemail famously said, "I'm out fishing".

Luther is survived by his daughter, Dawn (husband Bill); sons, Larry (wife Seana, son Lawson) and Dan (wife Bonnie); and his brother, Lee (wife Kay). He also leaves behind nephews David (wife Katherine), Jon (wife Francie, daughter Nellie, and son Jack), and James (wife Kate), along with many friends and former colleagues. He was preceded in death by his wife, Joan.

A private celebration of his life will take place at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Luther Lawrence Winchester to the following organizations:

Maxfield Community Food Pantry at PO Box 490, Lake Luzerne, NY 12846

Astor Community Radio, WMCW 97.7 FM at 56005 Blue Creek Rd., Astor, FL 32102

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June 13, 2025

Peg Coager (Lauren Coager) posted to the memorial.

June 5, 2025

David A. Winchester posted to the memorial.

June 3, 2025

Liz Gardepe posted to the memorial.

Peg Coager (Lauren Coager)

June 13, 2025

Dawn, Larry and Danny- My deepest condolences in the loss of your dad. Your dad was a great boss and friend to my late husband, Lauren. My husband and I had wonderful times with your dad on our many motorcycle trips. I will miss reminiscing with your him about old times.
Rest in Peace, Larry!

David A. Winchester

June 5, 2025

There simply were for me no bad moments when ever I got a chance to visit with my Uncle Larry and Aunt Joan. Just love and what´s the next adventure?. ...So so many great memories. So many great stories! Thank you for always leaving the door open...

Liz Gardepe

June 3, 2025

God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Missy Roarke

May 31, 2025

So sorry to hear of your dad's passing, Larry.
Such great memories of the times on the Cape.

Rebecca and Stan Rodland

May 28, 2025

We are so sorry for the loss of this wonderful man. Keep his memories alive by sharing his beautiful life with others. God Bless you all at this difficult time.

Chet Oliver Jr

May 26, 2025

Luther we worked together for many years in Colonie you were a trusted friend and great supervisor! We had our challenges but we managed to make it home safe at the end of our tours! You managed to keep control of the most serious conditions we faced for that you gained the respect of the men and women in your command. Dawn, Larry and Dan your Dad was respected by all and a great friend to many, may he rest in peace!

Larry Winchester

May 26, 2025

Kostas "Gus" Hais

May 26, 2025

My deepest condolences to the entire Winchester family, close friends and everyone that knew Mr. Winchester. He was always nice to me and my family Mr. Winchester always had a witty thing to say when I visited Larry and Dan at their house back in the day. I remember walking towards the house while he was cleaning his Triumph motorcycle. This is a lasting memory of him that is still in my mind. He had an amazing personality and a big heart. He will be truly missed. May his memory be eternal.

Single Memorial Tree

Julia Rubinic

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Thomas Mason

May 26, 2025

I was fortunate to know Larry through his brother Lee. We experienced many outings together with family and friends. Fishing in particular. God bless you Larry. Thomas Mason.

Lee Winchester

May 26, 2025

Rest in Peace Larry! Thanks for taking such good care of your younger brother all these years. Kay and I send our Love!

George Naumann

May 26, 2025

Sincere condolences to the family on Luther's passing.

Rick Langdon

May 26, 2025

So sorry for your loss, Larry and Dan. Peace to you and your family.

Kelly Coleman Merrill

May 26, 2025

So very sorry for your loss and very sad to hear of Larry´s passing. David and John loved their Uncle Larry very much.

Addline Bova

May 26, 2025

We are so very sorry to learn of his passing. Many prayers of peace and comfort for your family and friends.

Bill Hallinan/ Winchester

May 26, 2025

Larry was a good man. A generous man.
He left a wonderful lasting legacy in the exceptional character of his children.
Rest easy, Sir.

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Beyers Funeral Home & Crematory - Astor

24540 SR 40, Astor, FL 32102

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Sign Luther Winchester's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

June 13, 2025

Peg Coager (Lauren Coager) posted to the memorial.

June 5, 2025

David A. Winchester posted to the memorial.

June 3, 2025

Liz Gardepe posted to the memorial.