Larry Lee Bales

Larry Lee Bales, 86, went to be with the Lord on April 13, 2025. Larry was born on November 18, 1938 in Columbus to the late Marie (Albright) Bales, late Lawrence Cutlip.

Larry was a proud veteran of the United States Army for four years in the 101st Airborne Division. Larry worked for over 40 years as a painting contractor for his business, Buckeye Decorators. He was also of the Catholic faith and a former Master of the fourth degree in the Knights of Columbus. Larry and his wife, Jean, became snowbirds from Ohio to Florida about 13 years ago and loved their community.

Larry always kept busy and enjoyed his time amongst friends and family, often using his remarkable sense of humor and enjoying a glass of bourbon. Larry leaves behind a legendary legacy in his grandchildren who referred to him as the most badass grandpa ever, as well as great grandchildren who called him grandpa great. He will be remembered fondly for his adventurous hobbies and interests like riding motorcycles with Jean, racing legend cars, golfing, and most importantly paratrooping with the Phantom Airborne Brigade.

He will be missed dearly by many.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Jean Bales, his children: Debby (Joe) Peterson, Gary, Laura (Dave) Jenkins and Lisa (DJ) Carte, as well as his 11 grandchildren; Stephanie (Candice), Nichole (Shaun), Ashley, Nick, Jake, Tiffany, Matthew (Emily), Joey (Teresa) and Emily (Jacob), Devin and Gretchen; 11 great grandchildren (and one on the way), and a special cousin, Penny Replogle.

Along with parents, Larry was preceded in death by step-father, Ralph Bales. He is also preceded by dear pets, Tigger and Duke; who will be buried with him.

Immediate family will greet friends and family from 10am to 10:50am, Friday, April 25, 2025 at Church of the Resurrection, 6300 East Dublin-Granville Rd, New Albany, OH 43054. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11am, Friday, April 25; at the Church of the Resurrection. Mass to be celebrated by Father Jerome Rodenfels.

Burial with military honors provided by the United States Army at Dayton National Cemetery, 4400 W. Third Street, Dayton, OH 45428, Tuesday April 29, 2025; at 11am. Please don’t arrive to the cemetery prior to 10:50. If planning to attend burial, please speak with staff by phone or at funeral about “Which Staging Location” at Cemetery for smoothest arrival.

The Newcomer family and staff are honored to serve the Bales family. To leave a condolence, or to share a memory please visit the tribute section of the obituary page.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Larry's memory to The Phantom Airborne Brigade. https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/donate-to-make-a-difference--2025