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Larry Harold McMurtry, 78, of Marion, passed away at his home on February 11, 2026.
Larry was born on September 11, 1947, in St. Louis, Missouri, the son of Leamon and Opal (Graham) McMurtry. He married the love of his life, Patricia Starnes, on June 29, 1968, and together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work.
Larry served his country in the United States Army, a service he carried with quiet pride throughout his life. He spent his career as a skilled diesel mechanic, known for his strong work ethic, steady leadership, and ability to supervise any project with excellence. If something needed fixed or organized, Larry was the one you called.
Outside of work, Larry enjoyed deer hunting, spelunking, and spending time outdoors. He loved to explore — whether underground caves or new challenges in life. Above all, he treasured time with his family.
He attended Pittsburg Freewill Baptist Church and valued the friendships and faith community he found there.
Larry is survived by his devoted wife, Pat; his children, Kevin and Kristi McMurtry, Chris and Cecile McMurtry, and Danny and Melissa McMurtry; his grandchildren, Rachel and Christian Ziehm, Isaac and Harley McMurtry, Cayleigh, Clay, and Cara McMurtry, Dustin and Madalyn McMurtry; and his great-grandchildren, Paisley Knight, and Londyn Ziehm.
He is also survived by his siblings: Mary Diamond, Teresa Bates, Judy Irvin, Tommy and Paula McMurtry, Linda Burgess, David and Linda McMurtry, and Ron McMurtry, along with many extended family members and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his mother- and father-in-law, Art and Vivian Starnes; and his brother, Richard McMurtry.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Blue Funeral Home under the direction of Binkley-Ross. Visitation will be held Monday, February 16, 2026, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Blue Funeral Home, 1704 N. Court Street, Marion. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Keith Carnahan officiating and special message from Ken Graham. Interment will take place at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Poordo.
Please visit www.binkleyross.com to leave condolences online for the family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1702 W. Boulevard, Marion, IL 62959

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