Larry Sterett

Larry S. Sterett, 92, of Biggsville, Illinois, passed away in his sleep on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, at the Henderson County Retirement Center, Stronghurst, Illinois.

He was born on June 10, 1933, in Galesburg, Illinois, the son of Hazel E. Sterett. Larry grew up in Biggsville, surrounded by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and his beloved grandmother, Elizabeth Sterett.

Larry graduated from Biggsville High School and attended the University of Illinois for one year before graduating from Monmouth College with a B.A. in chemical engineering and education in 1956.

On Sept. 25, 1953, he married Betty Ann Themanson at the First Lutheran Church in Danville, Illinois. They were blessed with four children: Deborah Sterett of Jacksonville, Illinois; Tamee (Dan) Renwick of Monmouth, Illinois; SSGT Ret'd. USMC Bradley (Carolyn) Sterett of Swansboro, North Carolina; and Brian (Nanci) Sterett of Biggsville.

Larry started his teaching career at Biggsville High School, which later became Union High School. He taught for 37 years, retiring in May 1993.

He taught advanced math, chemistry, trigonometry/calculus, and physics. Looking back, his chemistry students could tell some stories of their many experiences from class - most being successful, but not always! He also coached football, basketball, and track. During his 33-year career coaching track, he had many outstanding track athletes qualify for the State Meet each May.

Larry is survived by three children: Deborah, Tamee, and Brian; as well as seven grandchildren: Dustin (Helen Hare) Renwick, Emilee Renwick (Kevin) Caba, Ben (Dakota) Sterett, Sara Sterett, Mary Sterett, Andy Sterett, and Johanna Sterett. He is also survived by three great-grandchildren: Elijah Sterett, Clover Betty Anne Caba, and Iris Elsiee Caba. Numerous cousins also survive.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty, in 2020; his son, Brad, in 2018; and his mother.

A Celebration of Life for Larry and Betty will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at the Biggsville United Presbyterian Church. Visitation will be prior to the service from 10-11 a.m. at the church. Interment will immediately follow at the Biggsville Cemetery, with fellowship and a luncheon to be held back at the church. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Memorials may be given to the Biggsville United Presbyterian Church, South Henderson Church, or Monmouth College and sent to the funeral home.

McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, is in charge of arrangements. For more information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.mcguireanddaviesfuneralhome.com.