Larry Neil Cleveland

Honoring a Long and Remarkable Journey

With profound sadness and gratitude for a life so richly lived, we announce the passing of Larry N. Cleveland, who peacefully departed this world on February 2, 2026, at his home in Lake Wales, FL. Born on 2/25/40 in Charlton, MS, he was a descendant of General Moses Cleveland (whom the city of Cleveland was named after), and President Grover Cleveland.

He moved to Ohio in 1955 and was proud to serve in the United States Army Signal Corps in 1957-1959. Upon discharge he continued his lifelong career in managing communication information systems. In 1999 he was honored to receive a Patent for a Multisided Communication Distribution Cabinet. He retired from Marconi in 1999 as a Field Service Engineer Supervisor.

Larry was a member of the American Legion for 60 years and was a member of the American Veterans for 35 years where he had a lifetime membership.

On July 4, 1993, surrounded by the love of family and friends on Kelly’s Island OH, Larry married Sandi Hitchcox. Blending families can be a delicate task, like weaving silk on a loom. It took time and patience for Larry to build a strong foundation with his stepchildren. He was the devoted husband of Sandi, a woman whose love, compassion, and unwavering support were the foundation of their life together. Throughout their 34 years together, Sandi stood as Larry’s guiding light and closest companion.

Larry and Sandi spent 18 years in Vermilion, OH where they built lifetime friendships. He was known for his high skills navigating Lake Erie on his Sea Ray boats, “Smilin thru II” and “Why?”. He was an avid Elvis Presley fan, and enjoyed fishing, hosting Clam Bakes, playing cards, bowling and dart leagues all while capturing many devoted friends. Larry and Sandi became “snowbirds” in Lake Wales, FL in 2005 and became full time residents in 2010 to the Walden Shores community of Lake Wales, FL.

Larry will be fondly remembered for his exceptional Bloody Mary’s, his radiant smile and infectious laughter! He embraced each day with an unwavering spirit, and was admired for his enduring strength, and countless memories created with loved ones. As “Papa” to his Grandchildren he enjoyed teaching them to fish & giving them memories to cherish for many generations.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers Walter, Kenny & Fred (Pete) and his dear beloved cat Stanley.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sandi, sons Kurt (Evy) and Dennis along with his Stepchildren Nicholas, Nate (Becca) and Samantha.

“Papa” Cleveland will be lovingly remembered by his Grandkids: Chauncey, Kacey, Nick, Alex, Mekhi, Shayla, Lincoln, Warren, Vivian, Harry, Jadyn, Brooklyn and Jersey. Along with his Great Grandkids: Rosemary, Wyatt, Robbie, Paisley, and Gideon.

Words cannot fully express the depth of Sandi’s gratitude for the care, compassion, and dignity provided by VITAS Healthcare (Hospice) during Larry’s final days. Their gentle presence, patience, and kindness brought comfort not only to him but to her entire family. She is also eternally grateful for the love, support and many helping hands from her Walden Shores Community, especially during the past 15 months.

Larry’s final resting place will be in the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL.

A celebration of Larry Cleveland's extraordinary journey will be held on Friday, February 13th from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. in the club house at Walden Shores (Lake Wales, FL). Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance, to share stories, laughter, and gratitude for a life that graced this world for so many years. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to VITAS Healthcare (https://www.VITAS.com) or Disabled American Veterans (https://help.dav.org) honoring Larry’s enduring spirit and legacy. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.